The Chicago Police Department (CPD) is gradually progressing towards compliance with major reforms mandated by the federal government. Meanwhile, the office of the Chicago Inspector General has successfully met the requirements of the 2019 consent decree, according to a recent order by U.S. District Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer. This marks it as the first city agency to be released from the oversight stipulated in the decree.
Triggered by a Justice Department investigation following the fatal shooting of Laquan McDonald by CPD Officer Jason Van Dyke in 2014, the decree aims to address long-standing issues of racism, abuse, and unconstitutional practices within the CPD.
Although the CPD is the primary target of the decree, other city agencies like the Civilian Office of Police Accountability, the Chicago Police Board, and the Office of Emergency Management and Communications have also been under federal scrutiny. The inspector general’s office fulfilled its obligations by ensuring proper handling of police misconduct complaints, reviewing past CPD disciplinary cases, and effectively coordinating with other agencies.
Inspector General Deborah Witzburg, expressing readiness to assist in further reforms, emphasized the need for tangible changes. The independent monitor, Maggie Hickey, noted that while CPD is partially complying with most decree terms, full compliance is still lacking. Hickey believes significant advancements are possible through better community policing, transparent staffing studies, and improved data management. She also expressed hope for CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling, appointed by Mayor Brandon Johnson, to foster transparent and effective policing practices, especially in the use-of-force training, a critical element of the decree.
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