Aurora Judge Sentences Teen to 30 Years for Murders
Dhaevontae Rogers-Broadus received a 30-year sentence on April 30, 2025, for two separate fatal shootings.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Crime — General
On April 30, 2025, an Aurora judge sentenced 18-year-old Dhaevontae Rogers-Broadus to 30 years in prison for the murders of Ahmed Zainuldeen and Raphael Velin. Rogers-Broadus had pleaded guilty to two counts of Second-Degree Murder, a class 2 felony in Colorado.
Why it matters
The sentencing concludes a legal process following two fatal shootings that occurred just 11 days apart in the city of Aurora. Rogers-Broadus was on probation at the time of the crimes, reportedly attempting to steal a vehicle to avoid violating his terms.
Dhaevontae Rogers-Broadus received concurrent sentences of 20 and 30 years for his guilty pleas to two counts of Second-Degree Murder. The legal proceedings concluded on April 30, 2025, after he admitted to the shootings of Ahmed Zainuldeen and Raphael Velin.
The players
Dhaevontae Rogers-Broadus
The 18-year-old perpetrator was sentenced for two fatal shootings committed while he was on probation.
Ahmed Zainuldeen
The 23-year-old victim was shot and killed during an attempted car theft on E. Harvard Avenue.
Raphael Velin
The 15-year-old victim was killed during an aggravated robbery in a parking lot at Southlands Mall.
The details
Rogers-Broadus killed Ahmed Zainuldeen during a car theft attempt on E. Harvard Avenue and later shot Raphael Velin multiple times during an aggravated robbery at a Southlands Mall parking lot. The teen had been on probation when he committed both homicides in September 2023.
Timeline
September 19, 2023: Ahmed Zainuldeen was shot and killed.
September 30, 2023: Raphael Velin was killed in a shooting.
April 30, 2025: Dhaevontae Rogers-Broadus was sentenced.
Legal Context
This sentence reflects the application of Colorado's class 2 felony sentencing guidelines for violent crimes. Such cases underscore how judicial systems manage repeat offenders who commit additional violent acts while under existing probationary supervision.
The conclusion of this case provides finality for the families involved in the tragic shootings at E. Harvard Avenue and Southlands Mall. Residents in Aurora should remain aware of local safety advisories as authorities continue to monitor patterns of youth-involved criminal activity.
The takeaway
This case serves as a sober reminder of the rapid escalation of violence when individuals violate probationary terms. Community members are encouraged to utilize local youth support programs to help prevent at-risk individuals from entering the criminal justice system.
Further reading
For additional context on legal developments in the area, visit Crime — General.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Arapahoeco.
