Coloradans Demand Action as Violent Offenders Go Free

Denver, CO – The Colorado Parent Advocacy Network (CPAN) will hold a press conference on Thursday, October 9, 2025, calling on state leaders to act after the release of violent offenders under recent legislation signed by Governor Polis.

Following the press conference, CPAN will deliver nearly 6,000 petition signatures to the Colorado District Attorneys’ Council, urging every District Attorney to sign a Declaration of Commitment to defend public safety and demand an emergency legislative session to reform the laws that are endangering Coloradans.

Press Conference Speakers:

• Lori Gimelshteyn, Executive Director, Colorado Parent Advocacy Network

• Britany Visage, daughter of Kristy Kerst, who was killed by Joel Lang - now released under incompetency laws

• Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer

• Representative Scott Bottoms

In 2024 and 2025, Governor Polis signed HB24-1034, HB24-1355, and SB25-041, competency-related laws that have led to the dismissal of cases against violent offenders and their release back into communities.

Despite Governor Polis' public promise on September 12, 2025, no tangible action has been taken:

“I support local governments in using every tool they can to protect public safety, and have made state staff available to work on options in partnership with local governments to ensure dangerous individuals are not released into the community. I also support updating statutes where necessary. Individuals who pose a risk to our communities or themselves should not be released back onto the streets.”

Recent tragedies underscore the human toll:

Parents across Colorado are already using the notice to put their choices in writing. The next steps are:

• Kristy Kerst, a mother and grandmother, was killed when Joel Lang knowingly hit and dragged her to death. His case was dismissed on incompetency grounds

• Austin Benson, previously deemed incompetent and released in Douglas County, later opened fire again in Arapahoe County.

• Solomon Galligan, a registered sex offender, attempted to abduct a child from a school playground, yet all criminal charges were dismissed under incompetency laws.

• Debisa Ephraim, released from custody under these same statutes, was arrested again just weeks later for trespassing, unlawful possession of a weapon on school grounds, and carrying a concealed weapon.

“These tragedies aren’t isolated cases. They’re the predictable result of laws that prioritize offenders’ rights above public safety,” Gimelshteyn said. “We are urging every District Attorney to stand with the people they serve, demand accountability, and push for immediate reform before more innocent lives are lost."

Members of the press are invited to attend.

For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact: [email protected]