Aurora Police to Boost Patrols, Enforcement for Super Bowl Weekend

Fans urged to plan ahead and avoid driving impaired during the big game celebrations.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 12:39am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Aurora Police Department announced it will increase patrols and enforcement efforts during Super Bowl weekend, February 6-9, as part of the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign. Police Chief Matt Thomas warned that even a small amount of alcohol or cannabis can impair judgment and reaction time, putting lives at risk. Residents are encouraged to designate sober drivers, use public transportation or ride-sharing services, and report any suspected impaired drivers to law enforcement.

Why it matters

With the Super Bowl being one of the biggest sporting and social events of the year, there is a heightened risk of impaired driving incidents. By proactively increasing patrols and enforcement, the Aurora Police Department aims to deter drunk and drugged driving and promote public safety during the festivities.

The details

The "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign will run from February 6 through the early morning hours of February 9. Police Chief Matt Thomas urged residents to make responsible choices, noting that "even a small amount of alcohol or cannabis can impair judgment and reaction time." Residents are advised to designate sober drivers, use public transportation or ride-sharing services, and report any suspected impaired drivers to law enforcement.

  • The enforcement campaign will run from February 6 through the early morning hours of February 9.
  • The Super Bowl will take place on February 8, 2026.

The players

Aurora Police Department

The local law enforcement agency in Aurora, Illinois that is increasing patrols and enforcement during Super Bowl weekend.

Matt Thomas

The Police Chief of the Aurora Police Department who warned residents about the dangers of driving impaired and urged them to make responsible choices.

Illinois Department of Transportation

The state agency that is administering and funding the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" enforcement campaign in Aurora.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“To ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable Super Bowl weekend, we're reminding our community to make responsible choices before celebrating. Even a small amount of alcohol or cannabis can impair judgment and reaction time. Driving impaired puts lives at risk, and it's a choice that can have lifelong consequences.”

— Matt Thomas, Police Chief (Patch.com)

What’s next

The Aurora Police Department will continue to monitor traffic and enforce impaired driving laws throughout Super Bowl weekend to ensure public safety.

The takeaway

The Aurora Police Department's proactive approach to increasing patrols and enforcement during Super Bowl weekend underscores the importance of promoting responsible behavior and deterring impaired driving, which can have devastating consequences for individuals and the community.