Revolving door at Aurora police chief has Colorado community leaders concerned

Interim Aurora Police Chief Heather Morris recently said she will not run for the permanent role of leader of the Aurora Police Department. Morris is the department’s third interim police chief since 2022. The revolving door of leadership has raised questions and concerns within the community.

When she was sworn in this year, Morris said the opportunity to hold the permanent chief position would be an honor. She told CBS Colorado Her priorities were reducing crime, building community relationships and strengthening the department.

In a letter to APD employees, she wrote, “It has been a privilege to serve the men and women of the Aurora Police Department, first as Interim Deputy Chief and for the past 6 months as Interim Police Chief.”

It is unclear why Morris decided not to pursue the role.

Omar Montgomery, president of the Aurora NAACP chapter, says the city needs a leader who is committed to staying in Aurora and who can balance the diverse needs of the community.

He says the city should investigate why it cannot retain leadership.

“There is inconsistency with leadership in the department and there is probably inconsistency about the philosophy of public safety in the city,” Montgomery said. “We really need to look at and figure out the tension points that are causing police chiefs to leave the city of Aurora.”

He believes Morris did a great job stepping into complex situations and showing extraordinary leadership, but he questions whether elected officials and the police department provide the necessary support to retain a chief.

“We also need to put in place an infrastructure that ensures the next chief is successful and wants to stay here for at least three years. Can we get someone for three years?” Montgomery said.

Montgomery believes Aurora needs a police chief who understands the current consent decree, supports independent oversight and supports a Citizens Advisory Board. He says they need to connect with the community, elected officials and the city’s officers.

“Now they have to go out and find someone who is willing to come to the city of Aurora, again, and understand the complexities of our community,” Montgomery said. “I hope the NAACP is part of the process. I really hope the community is involved from the beginning of the process all the way through the selection process.”

The city says there are currently a number of candidates for the permanent position.