Boulder Activist Laura Gonzalez Files Motion to Dismiss Charges

UPDATE: Boulder activist Laura Gonzalez, 39, has filed a motion to dismiss charges against her in a case raising significant First Amendment concerns. The motion was submitted on Wednesday, as Gonzalez faces serious allegations, including felony retaliation against Boulder City Councilmember Matt Benjamin.

The charges stem from multiple incidents, including confrontations at public events that have drawn widespread attention. Gonzalez is currently facing one count of felony retaliation and two misdemeanor harassment charges—one verbal and one physical. Prosecutors in the 1st Judicial District, which covers Jefferson and Gilpin counties, are handling the case due to its implications involving an elected official.

The legal battle centers around Gonzalez’s outspoken advocacy against Boulder’s refusal to pass a ceasefire resolution in response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Her defense argues that the prosecution targets her political expression, stating, “This prosecution targets core political expression.”

Details of the case reveal that on September 3, 2025, at the Farmer’s Market, Gonzalez confronted Benjamin and his wife regarding his stance on Gaza, allegedly calling him a “white supremacist settler” and a “baby-killer nazi.” The motion does not dispute the confrontation but claims that the physical contact—described as a shoulder-bump—was “disputed.”

Gonzalez’s defense attorney, Cameron Bedard, contends that the charges infringe on her First Amendment rights. “The Constitution does not permit such a result,” Bedard stated in the motion, arguing that the alleged actions are merely political critiques, not threats or harassment.

In a related incident on August 21, 2025, after receiving a one-year suspension from attending City Council meetings, Gonzalez protested outside the Penfield Tate II Municipal Building, condemning the council’s policies. During this demonstration, she reportedly directed expletives at activist Rachel Amaru, accusing her of complicity in “genocide.”

The legal proceedings are set to unfold rapidly, with a motions hearing scheduled for April 9, 2025, and a jury trial anticipated to begin on June 8, 2025. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for political activism and free speech in Boulder.

Officials from the 1st Judicial District have declined to comment on specific case details but emphasized the importance of distinguishing between protected speech and illegal conduct. “Peaceful protest and dissent are fundamental First Amendment rights,” a spokesperson noted, signaling that the case will be closely monitored.

As the legal proceedings progress, the implications of Gonzalez’s case resonate deeply within the community, highlighting the delicate balance between free expression and legal accountability. The motion to dismiss calls into question the nature of political discourse in public forums, making this a pivotal moment for activists and officials alike.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as we continue to follow the implications of the legal actions and community response.