An Aurora police officer was indicted by a grand jury for the fatal shooting of a 37-year-old man during a traffic stop [1], [2].
The indictment follows a nearly year-long investigation into the death of Rajon Belt-Stubblefield, marking a significant legal escalation in a case that drew scrutiny over police conduct and the use of lethal force during routine stops [3].
Matthew Neely, 54, was indicted by the 18th Judicial District Grand Jury [1], [7]. He faces charges of second-degree murder and reckless manslaughter [2], [6].
The incident occurred on Aug. 30, 2025, at approximately 7:30 p.m. [3], [4]. According to reports, Neely attempted to pull over Belt-Stubblefield near East Sixth Avenue and Sable Boulevard in Aurora, Colorado, for speeding and a possible DUI [1], [5]. The stop escalated, resulting in the shooting that killed Belt-Stubblefield [1], [5].
An attorney representing the family of Belt-Stubblefield said the legal process has taken nearly one year to reach this stage of indictment [3], [8].
The case centers on whether the officer's actions during the traffic stop were justified or constituted criminal negligence and intent. The charges of second-degree murder and reckless manslaughter suggest the grand jury found sufficient evidence to proceed with a criminal trial against the officer [2], [6].
“Matthew Neely faces charges of second-degree murder and reckless manslaughter.”
The indictment of a police officer for second-degree murder reflects a high legal threshold for probable cause, as grand juries often hesitate to charge officers for on-duty shootings. This case highlights the ongoing tension in Colorado regarding police accountability and the timeline of internal versus judicial investigations into officer-involved fatalities.
