Press Article: Parents Demand Justice Amid Delays in Autism Abuse Case
Littleton, CO – Families of several profoundly autistic children are expressing frustration over repeated delays in the criminal case against former Littleton school bus aide Kiarra Jones, 29, who is accused of abusing students in her care. This week, the preliminary hearing — intended to determine if there is enough evidence to proceed to trial — was postponed for a third time, angering parents who seek resolution.
Eighteenth Judicial Deputy District Attorney Aven Rose stated that the parents “wish to see the case go forward,” but defense attorneys required additional time to review surveillance footage related to the alleged incidents. Many parents were present for the hearing, eager for a verdict on charges that span from January to March 2024, involving three non-verbal children who attended The Joshua School.
Among the accused victims is 10-year-old Dax Vestal, whose mother, Jess Vestal, expressed deep distress over the delays. She described the situation as “twisting the knife” and highlighted the lack of voice these children have to communicate the abuse. Dax, along with two classmates, reportedly endured long bus rides, potentially making them vulnerable to mistreatment.
Jones, arrested in April, faces eight felony counts of third-degree assault against an at-risk person and two misdemeanor child abuse charges. New evidence has led to additional charges, including one for allegedly breaking a child’s bones and another for hair-pulling.
In her role as a paraprofessional assigned to ensure the safety of special needs children on the bus, Jones’s actions have raised serious concerns among parents, who are eager to see justice served. All three victims have since left The Joshua School, which partners with Littleton Public Schools to provide education for special needs students. Jones’s next court appearance is scheduled for January 27 in Arapahoe County.