In May, a North Aurora police officer and a police intern pulled over 49-year-old Jorge Valerio Martinez for a routine license plate violation, which led to Martinez being detained on suspected DUI. Martinez died in custody a few hours later due to heart-related problems.
After concluding an investigation of the incident, Kane County State’s Attorney Jamie L. Mosser announced that her office will not pursue charges against the officers, stating that “the officers acted lawfully and appropriately under Illinois law and North Aurora Police Department official policy.”
On May 2, 2025, a North Aurora officer and a police intern pulled Martinez over for a license plate violation. The officer observed signs of intoxication, administered field sobriety tests—which Martinez failed—and placed Martinez under arrest for Driving Under the Influence. Beyond handcuffing, no force was used.
Martinez was transported to the North Aurora Police Department a few minutes away. When the officer opened the door to remove Martinez, Martinez stated he needed to go to the hospital and that he had a heart stent. The officer requested paramedics over the radio and was joined by a second officer.
The officers asked Martinez to sit up, but he collapsed inside the vehicle. The officers removed Martinez from the vehicle, took off the handcuffs, and immediately began life sustaining measures.
Approximately five minutes after being requested, North Aurora Fire Department arrived and transported Martinez to Mercy Hospital in Aurora. He was pronounced deceased less than one hour later.
A Kane County Coroner’s autopsy determined that Martinez died from coronary atherosclerosis (coronary artery disease), with cocaine intoxication as a significant contributing factor. They diagnosed Martinez with coronary atherosclerosis, multiple stents, myocardial fibrosis, pulmonary edema, cerebral edema, and cocaine intoxication.
His BAC was 0.023. Martinez’s family informed investigators that he had a history of heart problems but had stopped seeking medical treatment a few years ago due to lack of health insurance.
“This was a tragic loss for Mr. Martinez’s family, and they remain in my thoughts,” said State’s Attorney Mosser. “The officers followed the law and departmental policy, acted quickly to summon medical aid, and immediately rendered assistance. I commend both officers for doing everything that they could to save the life of Mr. Martinez and thank them for their service. Thank you to the Major Crimes Task Force for their thorough investigation into this matter. This investigation is now closed with no finding of wrongdoing by either officer.”
“Our Police Department strives to treat everyone we encounter with respect and make sure they get the attention and help they need,” Chief DeLeo said. “We’re saddened by the recent incident, but remain committed to responding to the needs of those in our care. We also appreciate the State’s Attorney’s Office for their time and assistance on this case.”
