Kane County Prosecutors Investigate Alleged Excessive Force by Aurora Police on Student Protesters

Three students were taken into custody during a walkout protest against federal immigration arrests.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Kane County State's Attorney's Office announced an independent review into allegations that the Aurora Police Department used 'excessive force' during a student walkout protest on February 9th against federal immigration arrests. Videos captured by protesters appeared to show an officer aggressively tackling a student to the ground and other officers restraining and detaining students.

Why it matters

The incident has sparked outrage in the community, with protesters calling for accountability and the charges against the students to be dropped. The investigation will examine whether the police actions were consistent with department policy, training, and the law.

The details

During the student-led walkout of about 1,500 students, three male juveniles were taken into custody for allegedly resisting an officer, obstructing, and improper walking in the roadway. Police said enforcement actions were deemed necessary after 'fights broke out within the group' and 'water bottles were thrown at police vehicles.' Videos captured by protesters appeared to show a police officer aggressively tackling one student to the ground and other officers restraining and detaining students.

  • The student walkout protest occurred on February 9, 2026.
  • Protesters gathered outside the police station on February 10, 2026 calling for accountability.

The players

Kane County State's Attorney's Office

The prosecutors' office conducting an independent review into the allegations of excessive force by the Aurora Police Department.

Aurora Police Department

The law enforcement agency accused of using excessive force against student protesters.

Cristobal Cavazos

A member of Immigrant Solidarity DuPage who helped lead the protest outside the police station.

State Sen. Karina Villa

A Democratic state senator who called the videos of 'minors being restrained and handled like criminals' deeply disturbing and unacceptable.

Police Chief Matt Thomas

The Aurora police chief who defended the department's actions, stating the enforcement was necessary to 'restore safety and prevent further harm.'

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What they’re saying

“Videos shared online shows an officer tackling one of the individuals who appeared to be compliant. However, brief video clips do not capture the full sequence of events. Officers were encountering active and ongoing resistance as they attempted to take individuals into custody.”

— Police Chief Matt Thomas (shawlocal.com)

“The videos showing 'minors being restrained and handled like criminals in-front of their peers are deeply disturbing and unacceptable.'”

— State Sen. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago (shawlocal.com)

What’s next

The Kane County State's Attorney's Office said a full report of its findings will be released to the public after its independent review.

The takeaway

This incident highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and student protesters, as well as concerns about the use of force against minors. The independent investigation will aim to determine if the police actions were justified or constituted excessive force.