Senior Services Task Force
The Aurora Police Department’s Senior Services Task Force strengthens connections with the city’s senior population and enhances protection against crimes targeting older adults. Developed through the Community Oriented Policing (COP) Division, the program assigns specially trained officers to each patrol area to provide direct support to older residents in need.
The task force emphasizes prevention, early intervention, and personal connection. Officers serve as visible, trusted resources who can identify concerns, link residents with assistance, and help address issues before a crisis occurs.
These officers assist seniors who are victims of crime, living alone, or seeking community resources. They also collaborate with the Kane County TRIAD, a regional partnership focused on improving senior safety and well-being.
Action Plan
The task force conducts proactive follow-ups on senior-related cases. Investigations Sergeants forward relevant reports to detectives with specialized training in crimes against older adults. When additional support is needed, COP sergeants assign those cases to the Senior Services Officers for personal outreach.
Officers visit victims to offer assistance, perform home safety checks, and provide informational materials such as the Consumer Action Book, developed in partnership with Congressman Bill Foster’s Office and the U.S. General Services Administration.
Community Engagement and Education
Building trust through outreach is central to the task force’s mission. With the assistance of the City of Aurora’s Community Services Division, officers participate in community events to raise awareness and strengthen relationships with older residents. Engagement includes attending walk clubs, library and church gatherings, bingo nights, and senior center programs such as those hosted at the Prisco Center’s Friendly Center for Seniors.
Partnerships with local retailers—including Walmart, Jewel-Osco, and Walgreens—help store employees recognize and intervene in potential gift card scams, which remain one of the most common frauds affecting older adults.
Looking Ahead
The Senior Services Task Force will continue to evolve through expanded partnerships, community participation, and ongoing education. Future outreach may explore intergenerational education, helping community members of all ages understand how to recognize scams and support aging relatives or neighbors.
As the program grows, its focus remains on helping Aurora’s older residents stay safe, informed, and connected to the resources that enhance their quality of life.
For more information about the Senior Services Task Force, contact the Aurora Police Department’s Community Oriented Policing Division at 630-256-5890.