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Will Aurora Police Be Part of “Operation Aurora”?

Jesús Sánchez Meleán

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City Councilmember Danielle Jurinsky stirred controversy after suggesting, during a Public Safety Committee meeting, that Aurora Police Sergeant Marc Sears could lead “Operation Aurora,” a plan linked to Donald Trump’s upcoming administration targeting the deportation of undocumented immigrants. While no concrete details have been revealed, these statements raise questions about the stance of Aurora police in a state like Colorado, where laws limit cooperation with ICE.

Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain has reiterated that his focus is on pursuing crimes without considering immigration status. According to Chamberlain, collaboration with ICE is limited to what is legally required, such as sharing detainee data in national databases, leaving immigration law enforcement to federal authorities. However, the city’s potential appointment of a police liaison to “Operation Aurora” could indicate a shift in this stance.

The passage of House Bill 1100 in 2023 in Colorado further restricts collaboration with ICE, prohibiting local governments from participating in immigrant detentions. Aurora Police’s potential involvement in “Operation Aurora” could contradict both state laws and the policies that Chief Chamberlain has emphasized over the past two months. In direct face-to-face meetings, Chamberlain has repeatedly stated that Aurora police do not enforce immigration laws.

The Aurora community, particularly immigrants, needs clarity on whether the local police will be part of this initiative under the new Trump administration. If they do participate, under what terms will it occur? Clarity on this matter is crucial for maintaining trust in police efforts. Transparency is essential to ensure trust and peaceful coexistence in Aurora. Will Aurora Police be part of this operation? The answer must be clear and timely.