BREAKING: A Denver woman has been sentenced to three years of probation for threatening a group of schoolchildren and their teacher with a knife in a shocking incident that occurred in Boulder last May. Alyiah Vega, aged 53, faced serious charges but ultimately received a plea deal that included one year of work release.
In a plea agreement confirmed earlier today, Vega pleaded guilty to one count of felony menacing with a real or simulated weapon, alongside one count of criminal impersonation. Multiple additional charges, including 18 counts of felony menacing and 17 counts of negligent child abuse, were dismissed as part of the deal, according to court documents.
The incident unfolded on May 8, 2023, when Vega reportedly followed a group of children and their teachers near the 1700 block of Broadway around 11 a.m. Witnesses stated that she got within 10 feet of the children, threatening to kill them while brandishing a knife. Fortunately, no injuries occurred during the terrifying episode.
Upon her arrest shortly after the incident, Vega initially claimed to be her daughter, a 31-year-old woman from Arizona. However, she was later identified correctly. Just days after posting bond, she was arrested again for the impersonation, as confirmed by the Boulder Police Department via social media.
During the sentencing, Boulder County District Court Judge Thomas F. Mulvahill acknowledged Vega’s relatively minor criminal history and her plans for re-entering society with employment. He could have imposed a jail sentence of up to 120 days but opted for probation instead.
This troubling case has raised concerns about the safety of schoolchildren in the Boulder area. Local officials, including Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty, emphasized the seriousness of the threats made against innocent children and the importance of community vigilance.
As Vega begins her probation, local residents and parents are urged to remain aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious behavior to authorities. The community is still processing the fear and anxiety caused by this incident, highlighting the urgent need for measures to ensure the safety of children in schools.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to local news channels and online platforms.
