The complexities of criminal justice reform unfold on Chicago's streets as the Chicago Police Board, a crucial nine-member body handling serious misconduct allegations within the Chicago Police Department, undergoes significant changes. As noted by the Chicago Tribune, the board is currently in a period of major adjustments.
These changes are notably evident in the board's oversight and membership, a clear shift from a long-standing tradition. The board now operates under the regulate of the newly founded Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA). This change influences the board's role in the appointment of the CPD superintendent and disciplinary case decisions. The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7, representing CPD officers, voices opposition to these revisions, advocating for accused officers to have access to third-party arbitrators.
Changes to the Chicago Police Board are evident in makeup as well, with the terms of board president Ghian Foreman and five others coming an end. Nominated by the CCPSA as replacements are six candidates, though the ultimate decision falls on Mayor Brandon Johnson, according to Chicago Tribune.
These changes are coinciding with previously escalated scrutiny on the police disciplinary system of Chicago's police. In a recent Memorandum and Order the Police Board denied the FOP's request to transfer 22 pending cases to a separate arbitration call or to pause all Police Board cases. An update regarding the police disciplinary cases based on the arbitrator's decision is expected at the October 19 meeting.
Amongst concerns expressed by community advocates and professionals is calling for the abolishment of the CPD's tactical and gang units. Rebecca Cook, the head of the NAACP's West Side Branch criminal justice committee and possible board nominee, has opposed the CPD's gang database usage in the past. Meanwhile, Cathryn Crawford, a longtime defense attorney, echoed Cook's sentiments at a CCPSA meeting last May calling for robust measures for misconduct reporting and objecting to the CPD's tactical and gang units, reports the Chicago Tribune.
