US Election 2024

Proposed Chicago police resource cuts could land city in court, top officials warn

Illinois’ Democratic Attorney General Kwame Raoul and a court-appointed monitor have issued warnings to Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson regarding proposed cuts to police resources. These cuts could potentially lead to litigation for the crime-ridden city. During a recent status hearing, monitor Maggie Hickey expressed concerns that cuts to the Chicago Police Department’s Constitutional Policing division could have a detrimental impact on the future of CPD reforms under a legally-mandated consent decree.

The consent decree was established in 2017 after evidence of systemic civil rights violations within CPD was found by the Justice Department. The decree, agreed upon by then-Mayor Rahm Emanuel, then-Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson, and then-Illinois Democratic Attorney General Lisa Madigan, outlined various terms including verbal warnings for use-of-force and requirements to render first aid. Raoul warned Mayor Johnson that adopting the proposed budget cuts could result in Chicago being held in contempt of court for failing to comply with the consent decree.

In a letter to the mayor, Raoul emphasized the importance of continuing progress towards effective, constitutional policing in Chicago. He commended Police Superintendent Larry Snelling for his efforts in delivering on the decree’s commitments and overseeing a decrease in gun violence and homicides. Raoul urged the mayor to reconsider the proposed cuts, stating that targeting court-ordered reform work for budget reductions is not an acceptable option.

Both Raoul and Snelling highlighted the positive momentum and progress being made by CPD in implementing the consent decree’s reforms. Snelling pointed to the successful handling of the Democratic National Convention in August as evidence of the department’s dedication to effective policing. He emphasized the importance of resource allocation reflecting the progress seen in reducing crime rates.

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After convincing Mayor Johnson to reverse one cut related to mental health clinicians in precincts lacking them, Snelling reaffirmed his commitment to police accountability and professionalism. Chief Angel Novalez echoed the significance of the consent decree and the department’s regular communication with the court monitor’s team.

Mayor Johnson’s budget includes reductions in approximately 450 police vacancies, which could significantly impact the consent decree’s reforms. While Johnson’s office and the CPD did not respond to requests for comment, it is clear that the concerns raised by Raoul and the court monitor underscore the importance of maintaining progress towards constitutional policing in Chicago.

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