Aurora, IL – The Aurora Police Department is calling for calm after officers responded to multiple disturbances across the city Thursday, some reportedly tied to federal immigration activity and community reactions to it.
According to a statement from Chief Matt Thomas, officers were dispatched throughout the day and evening on October 9, 2025, to maintain order and prevent property damage. Thomas emphasized that the Aurora Police Department is not affiliated with ICE or any federal immigration enforcement operations.
“Our officers were there to protect lives, calm tensions, and make sure our community did not experience violence or property damage,” Thomas said. “We were not conducting federal operations.”
The department acknowledged that emotions were running high, with some residents expressing fear and frustration over the situation. Still, Thomas urged peaceful behavior and warned that unlawful actions—such as blocking roads, damaging property, or endangering others—would result in swift enforcement.
“Disrupting public safety or endangering others is not an act of protest; it’s a violation of the law,” Thomas added. “We will always protect the rights of those who gather peacefully, but we will not tolerate behavior that threatens safety or wellbeing.”
The Chief concluded by commending Aurora’s resilience in past crises, urging residents to remain united. “Aurora has overcome difficult moments before by standing together, not against each other,” Thomas said.
