In the wake of the tragic death of Elijah McClain, who was stopped by the Aurora Police Department, the city of Aurora embarked on a significant transformation through a five-year-long consent decree.
Aurora Police Department Implements Reforms Following Elijah McClain’s Tragic Death (Photo: CNN)
Mandates and Milestones: Tracking Aurora’s Progress
In a recent report published by CBS News, in September 19, 2023, the city of Aurora, Colorado, found itself under intense scrutiny by the Aurora Police Department following the tragic death of Elijah McClain during a police encounter. This incident prompted the city to enter into a comprehensive five-year consent decree aimed at addressing issues of racial bias in policing, the use of force, and documentation of stops.
Under the watchful eye of Independent Monitor Jeff Schlanger, the Aurora Police Department has been navigating a complex journey towards reform, marked by both progress and persistent challenges. Aurora Police Department consent decree, consisting of 68 mandates, has been a focal point in the quest for police reform. These mandates encompass critical areas such as tackling racial bias within the police force, reevaluating the use of force policies, and enhancing the documentation of police stops.
Over the course of five years, Aurora Police Department has been actively working to meet these requirements. Independent Monitor Jeff Schlanger, responsible for overseeing compliance, expressed cautious optimism, noting that progress is being made. However, he emphasized the need to recognize that this journey is not a sprint but a marathon, highlighting the complexity of the reforms.
READ ALSO: Neighborhoods In Houston: Where It’s Dangerous
Challenges and Community Concerns: Beyond the Reports
According to the news released by AP News, despite the apparent progress in meeting the consent decree’s mandates, concerns within the Aurora community persist. Community activist Candice Bailey and others argue that the core problem lies with the city’s leadership. They assert that while the city may be making strides on paper, the real impact on the lives of those affected by police brutality remains insufficient. Recent events, such as the fatal shooting of Jor’Dell Richardson, have intensified these concerns. Notably, no criminal charges were filed against the officer involved in the shooting, prompting further scrutiny.
The Office of the Independent Monitor together with Aurora Police Department is closely monitoring such cases, vowing to ensure that all uses of force align with policy. As Aurora Police Department marches forward on its journey to reform its police department, one significant challenge remains—combatting racial bias through training. Even after considering presentations from potential vendors, the city opted to return to the drawing board, highlighting the complexities and difficulties involved in addressing deep-rooted issues.
With the next report from the independent monitor due in the middle of October, Aurora Police Department continues to grapple with its commitment to reform, aware that much work lies ahead in building trust and ensuring justice within its community.
READ ALSO: Powerball Jackpot Lottery Soars $600 Million
