Officer Retires After Nearly 21 Years Serving Aurora Police Department

AURORA, IL — An Aurora Police Department officer officially retired on New Year's Day, nearly 21 after joining the department, officials announced.

Che Earwood, No. 262, was appointed a police officer on April 1, 2002. For much of his career, he served as a patrol officer in the Patrol Services division. He also served as a field training officer.

During his tenure with the department, Earwood was honored for his heroic efforts, receiving the Medal of Valor for rescuing someone from the Fox River on Dec. 31, 2004.

In January 2005, Earwood was named co-employee of the month, and he was nominated for the Exchange Club Officer of the Year in 2005.

"We commend Che for his many years of service to the Aurora Police Department and the citizens of Aurora, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors," officials said.