After a lengthy investigation, Kane County State’s Attorney Jamie L. Mosser has exonerated two Aurora police officers in an officer-involved shooting that took place in Aurora on February 5 of last year.
The investigation found no wrongdoing on the part of any member of the Aurora Police Department during the incident.
In a statement issued by Mosser’s office, Mosser indicates that Aurora Police Officers Young and Sheldon did everything “by the book” when they responded to a domestic disturbance call at the 900 block of Colorado Avenue and encountered an individual exhibiting violent tendencies and armed with multiple knives. According to Mosser, the officers attempted to de-escalate the situation, acted swiftly in getting people out of harm’s way, and stayed a distance away when in the driveway and attempting to gain compliance. Officer Young properly employed the use of the non-lethal pepper ball gun in the driveway. It was only when the suspect ran aggressively towards them wielding a large knife in each hand that Officer Young made the decision to use lethal force. According to Mosser, Officer Young had no choice but to shoot Cross in this situation.
“I would like to commend both Officer Young and Officer Sheldon on their professionalism in this matter,” said Mosser. “It was very clear that they were attempting to de-escalate the situation. The split second decision that Officer Young was forced to make in switching from his less lethal option to lethal was impressive. It is his quick thinking that not only saved his own life but others as well. Officer Sheldon showed great leadership during this incident and also refrained from engaging as he did not have a clear line of shot. The officers who appeared on site during the incident and after should be commended as well. Everyone acted swiftly to save the life of [the suspect]. Thank you to investigator Lencioni and the Major Crimes task force for collecting all of the necessary information for me to review and to ultimately come to this determination.”
“The actions of all public safety personnel on the scene that day exemplify the highest level of teamwork, training, and courage during a dangerous encounter,” Aurora Police Chief Keith Cross stated. “This was a very tough day for the officers involved and for the family of [the suspect]. We try everything we can to de-escalate situations using the least amount of force, but sometimes situations like this are unavoidable.”
On February 8, 2023, the suspectg was charged by the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office with attempt murder, unlawful restraint, aggravated assault to a police officer, and aggravated use of a deadly weapon. His case is ongoing and his next court date is scheduled for July 11 at 9 a.m. in courtroom 211.
