Hometown: New Lenox, Illinois

Undergraduate Institution and Major: Illinois State University, Bachelor of Science (Criminal Justice Major)

Graduate Institution and Major: Illinois State University, Master of Science (Criminal Justice Major)

Bio: Since a very young age, Aaron wanted to become a police officer like his grandfather (Bud) before him. After serving as a member of the Air Force Security Forces, a team leader for various response teams,  Aaron attended Joliet Junior College and Illinois State University. Aaron has extensive experience handling a wide range of law enforcement issues, including mental health, domestic violence, problem-oriented policing, and proactive policing strategies. Bloomington, a city of approximately 80,000 residents, has allowed him to interact with people struggling with a broad spectrum of issues from all walks of life. He enjoys mentoring and developing officers in his current role while encouraging them to remain motivated during a volatile time for law enforcement. 

Email: aveer6@uis.edu

Relevant Experience: After serving 4 years of active duty in the US Air Force, Aaron joined the Bloomington Police Department in 2007. In 2012, he was selected as a member of the department's Street Crimes Unit, which focuses on community issues such as gang and drug suppression. In 2017, Aaron was promoted to sergeant and assigned to 2nd Shift Patrol. In 2021,  he was again promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and currently manages a patrol shift consisting of 3 Sergeants and 17 officers. 

Research Interests: Body Worn Cameras; police recruitment, retention, and training

Professional Affiliations: International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) - 2020