Aurora Police Launches New Unit to Protect Senior Citizens

The Aurora Police Department has initiated a new program aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of senior citizens in the community. The Senior Safety and Resources Unit was officially launched to establish stronger connections between the police and the elderly, focusing on protecting them from fraud and crime. This initiative, developed by the department’s Community Oriented Policing Division, is designed to provide direct support to seniors in need.

Under this new unit, specially trained police officers will patrol neighborhoods to identify and assist vulnerable elderly residents. The Aurora Police Department will collaborate with Chris Ragona, the city’s community services director, and Katrina Boatwright, senior and disability services manager, to ensure that seniors have access to local resources and services. The officers will cater to seniors who may be living alone, require community services, or have fallen victim to crimes.

Proactive Approach to Senior Safety

“This program is about more than just responding to incidents – it’s about preventing them,” stated Sgt. Skyy Calice of the Aurora Police Department. The focus is on making officers visible and trusted resources who can connect seniors with assistance before any potential crisis arises. The unit plans to conduct follow-ups with at-risk older residents, providing safety checks and engaging in personal outreach.

Detectives trained in investigating crimes against seniors will work closely with the unit’s officers to offer community resource connections. The department is also teaming up with the U.S. General Services Administration and U.S. Representative Bill Foster to distribute the Consumer Action Book, which educates seniors on consumer rights and fraud prevention.

The initiative includes training for retail employees on identifying and responding to financial scams, particularly those involving gift card fraud. This collaborative effort aims to bolster community engagement through senior activities and events, making it easier for seniors to access the support they need.

Community Commitment and Future Plans

The launch of the Senior Safety and Resources Unit reflects the Aurora Police Department’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding its senior residents. “Aurora’s seniors are vital members of our community,” said Aurora Police Chief Matt Thomas. “We’re grateful to our community partners and local retailers, whose collaboration helps us extend our reach and protect those who’ve spent a lifetime contributing to this city.”

As scams and fraud targeting older adults continue to rise, the department emphasizes the importance of innovative, community-oriented policing practices. The Senior Safety and Resources Unit is poised to expand its outreach efforts, fostering a sense of safety, trust, and connection among Aurora’s elderly population.

For further information, residents can contact the department at 630-256-5890 or visit Aurora.il.us/SeniorTaskForce.