Police Officer Retires After 23 Years With Aurora Department

AURORA, IL — After 23 years with the Aurora Police Department, Officer Pedro Rodriguez officially retired from the department, officials announced Tuesday.

Rodriguez was first appointed a police officer when he joined the department on March 29, 1999. Throughout his career of more than two decades, he served as a patrol officer and a K-9 officer with his partner, Gunny.

The officer's achievements didn't end there. He was also a bicycle patrol officer, a member of the Aurora Police Honor Guard and a member of the Illinois Police Benevolent and Protective Association.

The police officer — who officials said served the department "honorably" — received several awards throughout his career. Rodriguez was Employee of the Month in July 2001 and December 2021. In March 2000 and February 2011, he was Co-Employee of the Month. He was also named Employee of the Year and Kane County Officer of the Year in 2011 as well as Exchange Club Officer of the Year in 2001, 2011 and 2021.

"We commend Pete 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," APD officials said in a news release.