Mosser Will Independently Review Aurora Walkout Incident Leading To Arrest Of 3 Teens

AURORA, IL — The Kane County State's Attorney's Office is conducting an independent review into the allegations of Aurora police's excessive use of force during student walkouts Feb. 9.

Three East Aurora High School students, including one accused of punching a police officer, were arrested Monday during a 1,500-person walkout to oppose recent U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity, Patch reported.

Officers made repeated attempts to safely facilitate the protest and gain voluntary compliance from students as they entered the road. Police also noticed rocks and water bottles being thrown at squad cars, altercations breaking out among students, intimidation of passing drivers, and reckless driving happening close to the gathered students, according to authorities.

Videos shared online show an officer tackling one of the people who appeared to be the complainant. Police Chief Matt Thomas said in a statement that "video clips [circulating online] do not capture the full sequence of events," adding that officers encountered "active and ongoing resistance" as they attempted to place the boys in custody.

"No additional force beyond the takedown was used to complete the arrests despite continued active resistance from those involved," Thomas said.

The three boys were charged with improper walking in the roadway, obstructing and resisting a peace officer, according to police, who said one of the boys was also charged with aggravated battery to an officer.

RELATED: 3 Students Arrested During 1,500-Person Walkout In Aurora: Police

To conduct its comprehensive review, the office will review all body-worn camera footage, reports and related evidence from the Aurora Police Department and determine whether "actions taken were consistent with department policy, established training, and applicable law." Once the review is completed, the office will issue a full report.