Aurora Police Chief reports staffing update amid declining crime rates

In the heart of Aurora City Hall, city officials gathered to discuss pressing matters of public safety, revealing both challenges and progress in the local police department. The April 2025 meeting of the Public Safety, Courts & Civil Service Policy Committee highlighted the ongoing efforts to bolster staffing levels and address crime rates in the community.

Chief of Police presented a detailed update on the department's staffing situation, noting that the current total stands at 690 officers, with 58 vacancies. While the department is actively training new recruits, with 37 officers in field training and an additional 44 in a group class, the attrition rate remains a concern. The chief emphasized that even with a larger training class, the drop-off in numbers is consistent with historical trends.

Despite these staffing challenges, the chief reported a positive trend in crime rates, which have decreased by 2.7%. However, he stressed the importance of adequate staffing to maintain this downward trajectory. The ideal staffing level, based on national averages, would require approximately 808 to 889 officers, a significant increase from the current numbers. This gap raises questions about the department's ability to effectively serve a growing population and manage the complexities of modern policing.

Committee members expressed a strong desire to prioritize traffic enforcement, responding to community feedback about increased visibility of police officers on the streets. The chief acknowledged this request, indicating a willingness to focus on filling patrol positions to enhance public safety further.

As the meeting concluded, the discussions underscored a critical moment for Aurora's police department. With a commitment to addressing staffing shortages and a proactive approach to crime reduction, city officials are poised to navigate the challenges ahead, ensuring that the safety of the community remains a top priority.