October 15th 2024.
On Monday night, a group of more than twenty people gathered at the Aurora Municipal Center to protest the decision made by Arapahoe County District Attorney John Kellner. The group, which included friends, family members, and activists, were there to express their frustration and disappointment over Kellner's choice to not press charges against Aurora Police Department Officer Michael Dieck. Dieck was responsible for the fatal shooting of Kilyn Lewis, a young man whose life was tragically cut short.
Lewis' mother, LaRonda Jones, shared with the crowd that she had learned of Kellner's decision through the news media on Friday. She emphasized that this outcome was not the end and that they would continue to fight for justice for her son. “We will continue to fight for my son… and we will fight with all power,” Jones declared, standing in front of the Municipal Center.
The events leading up to Lewis' death were also discussed at the rally. It was revealed that Aurora and Denver police had been surveilling Lewis for two days before attempting to arrest him on suspicion of attempted murder. However, Kellner's decision letter stated that Lewis' actions during the encounter, specifically reaching into his back pocket, made Dieck believe his life was in danger. This belief ultimately led to Lewis being shot and killed by Dieck. The investigation later found that Lewis was actually holding a phone and a package of fruit snacks.
One of the organizers of the rally, Auon'tai Anderson, expressed that they were not surprised by Kellner's decision. “We expected this outcome because the system has shown us that Black lives truly do not matter,” Anderson stated. “For 144 days this family has waited for answers, and the answer is that the individual responsible for the death of Kilyn Lewis gets to go back to work.”
Jones also took the opportunity to defend her son's character, stating that he was an honorable man. “Kilyn was not any of those things they made him out to be,” she said. “If you believe any of that, then shame on you.” Lewis' father, Robert Lewis, also spoke at the rally, describing his son as a loving and kind person. “I stand for my son and he did not deserve to die like that,” Robert Lewis said.
The senseless death of Kilyn Lewis was described by Denver Justice Project Executive Director Alexander Landau as “state-sanctioned violence.” He directly addressed Kellner, saying, “You should be ashamed. You are part of the problem.” Landau went on to state that this was a moral issue and that Kellner's decision perpetuates this type of violence within the Aurora Police Department.
Jones pleaded with the community to stand with her family and other advocates in demanding change. “I implore you guys to stand with us and let your voice be heard, not only for Kilyn but for your loved one too,” she said. As the rally came to an end, community members were encouraged to sign up to receive crime news and updates. The fight for justice and change continues, not just for Kilyn Lewis, but for all those who have suffered at the hands of the justice system.
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