CBS News reported that Aurora, Colorado is looking at increasing its police budget by $10 million in the face of rising crime rates and national headlines regarding gang violence.

Aurora is a victim of the sanctuary city policies adopted by Denver. Thousands of illegal immigrants have descended on the city, bringing with them gangs and retail theft.

Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain informed reporters that the extra funds would help with the staffing shortages in the department.

Chamberlain stated that “right now, we do not have our full complement” of officers. Chamberlain said, “Our patrol has been affected by staffing issues. That’s what I am looking at now.”

According to reports, members of Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua terrorized apartment blocks in the city. Many business owners also complain about having to pay private security to protect their employees and customers.

Doug McMurrain is the owner of La Plaza Market. He told the outlet that he makes regular police calls.

“We need more police. He said that $10 million was a small amount of money if it took more.

They have a tough job. “We need more officers,” he said, adding that the increase in crime forced him to become armed.

McMurrain continued, “Unless there is a gun involved in the situation, you are not a priority.” “I carry multiple weapons and have never carried a gun in my life.”

If approved, police budgets would rise from $155.7 millions in 2024 to 164.9 million dollars in 2025.

Chamberlin stated that the additional funds will be used for updating the technology of the Department.

He said, “I want our officers to know what they’re responding to even before they arrive.” “I want to know where and when our crimes occur, as well as who is the victim.”