During a recent Aurora City Council meeting, community members expressed outrage over the police-involved death of Kylan Lewis, who was killed by Officer Michael Dieck 81 days prior. Activists and family representatives demanded accountability, urging city officials to pressure the district attorney to file homicide charges against Dieck and to release unedited body camera footage of the incident.
Speakers highlighted the perceived inaction of city leaders, questioning their commitment to justice and community safety. One speaker criticized council members for allowing derogatory remarks about grieving families, calling for a more robust response to the tragedy. Another community member, Laura Gonzalez, condemned the police force's historical violence against marginalized groups and called for the prosecution of Dieck, emphasizing the need for systemic change within the police department.
The meeting also saw calls for the establishment of a Civilian Police Accountability Council, which would empower community members to investigate police misconduct and hold officers accountable. Activists argued that the current system fails to protect citizens and that community oversight is essential for reform.
As tensions rose, some speakers drew parallels between local police actions and broader issues of systemic racism and violence, including international conflicts. They urged city officials to reconsider their priorities and to take meaningful action to support affected families and communities.
The council's response to these demands remains to be seen, as community members continue to seek justice for Kylan Lewis and accountability for the actions of the police.