In 2025, the City of Aurora made headlines for all the right reasons: overall crime dropped by more than 22% in the first four months of the year. From stolen vehicles to burglaries to homicides, the data paints a picture of a safer city. But as criminal defense attorneys, we know that the numbers don’t tell the whole story.

Even in a time of progress, individuals still face arrest, prosecution, and serious life consequences.  We’ll explore what’s behind Aurora’s improving crime rates—and why having a skilled defense attorney remains essential.

Aurora’s Crime Drop: The Numbers

According to Aurora Police Chief Art Acevedo, the city has experienced significant declines in crime across nearly every category:

  • Total crime: down 22.2%

  • Property crime: down 25%

  • Motor vehicle theft: down 38.5%

  • Burglaries: down 31%

  • Homicides: down 36%

These figures, reflecting the first four months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, represent one of the steepest crime drops in recent city history.

The decline has been attributed to several factors:

  • A focus on community-based policing

  • Aggressive targeting of auto theft rings

  • A renewed emphasis on collaboration with local prosecutors

  • A sharp increase in warrant enforcement

While the city’s public safety strategy is evolving, law enforcement is simultaneously expanding its reach. That means more police contact, more arrests—and a heightened risk of being caught in the system even if you’re innocent or your actions were misunderstood.

The Misconception: “Less Crime Means Less Need for a Lawyer”

With crime on the decline, it’s easy to assume that arrests are becoming rare or that charges are less serious. Unfortunately, that’s not the case.

Here’s why defense still matters—even in safer times:

1. Over-Policing Can Still Lead to Wrongful Arrests

As police increase patrols and enforce more warrants, everyday people can get swept into the justice system. Misidentification, faulty evidence, or being in the wrong place at the wrong time are still common causes of arrest.

2. More Charges Are Getting Filed

Prosecutors are under pressure to show they’re tough on crime—even while the stats improve. That often translates into aggressive charging decisions, which can include stacked charges or elevated offenses for things like resisting arrest or possession.

3. Your Future Is Still on the Line

A drop in citywide crime won’t stop a misdemeanor, felony, or traffic offense from affecting:

  • Your job

  • Your housing

  • Your immigration status

  • Your reputation

Even a “minor” charge like theft, assault, or DUI can carry life-altering consequences if not handled correctly.

The Role of a Defense Attorney in a “Low Crime” City

Our team represents people in Aurora Municipal Court, Arapahoe County Court, and District Court every day. Whether crime rates are up or down, our job stays the same:

  • Protect your constitutional rights

  • Investigate police conduct and challenge unlawful arrests

  • Negotiate reductions, dismissals, or alternative sentencing

  • Go to trial when necessary to fight unjust accusations

We’ve seen people prosecuted during traffic stops, mistaken identity cases, domestic misunderstandings, and routine disputes. Every case deserves a full defense—regardless of the broader crime climate.

Progress Is Great, But Vigilance Is Vital

Aurora should be proud of its progress in fighting crime—but progress doesn’t eliminate the need for justice. In fact, as systems grow more confident, the risk of overreach or unintended harm can grow, too.

Common Cases our Firm handles:

If you or someone you love has been charged with a crime in Aurora or anywhere in the Denver metro area, don’t assume the system will go easy just because the stats are down. Get legal representation immediately and make sure your rights are protected from the very start.