Community leaders react to choice of new Aurora police chief

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AURORA, Colo. (KDVR) — After more than two years of interim police chiefs, community leaders in Aurora made it clear that having a permanent leader of the department is a good thing.

Dr. Thomas Mayes of the NAACP, who is also president of the Greater Metro Denver Ministerial Alliance, told FOX31: “We have to give him a chance. We need a permanent police chief and we need him now. This revolving door is part of the problem itself.”

City manager Jason Batchelor issued a statement describing newly announced police chief Todd Chamberlain as “a seasoned professional who has a deep understanding of fair, ethical, consistent and constitutional policing.”

Mayes told FOX31 that a permanent chief is the key to creating a safer environment for all.

“Community policing is important to us. The relationship between the community and the police department has been tainted,” he said.

Aurora community leaders concerned with selection process

Former members of the Aurora police community task force told FOX31 that the new chief must address the department’s negative image, highlighted by the 2019 death of 23-year-old Elijah McClain.

“If he changes the way some of the ‘bad apples’ are dealt with inside the Aurora Police Department, then he can have a grounded position and move forward toward success. Because it takes everybody. We’re all equal partners here in Aurora,” Lindsay Minter said.

Community leaders point out that they are disappointed that their input was not included in the selection process.

“You know, it’s almost like getting the exact meal you want prepared just the way you want it and then presented on the lid of a trash can,” Mayes said.

Mayes told FOX31 that community leaders need more information about Chamberlain’s track record in law enforcement but will work with the new chief to create a better future for their city.

“We definitely want to give him a chance, but he has to give us a chance as well,” Mayes said.

The position was posted in July. Aurora City Council will vote on confirming Chamberlain’s appointment on Aug. 26. If confirmed, he will be sworn into office on Sept. 9.

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Shaul Turner

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