More than two years after a domestic disturbance call turned deadly, the Chicago Police Department officer who shot and killed a man has been recommended for termination by the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA). Officer Alberto Covarrubias, who fatally shot 61-year-old Michael Craig in October 2021, could lose his job if COPA's recommendations are followed. Craig had called 911 pleading for help, claiming his wife was attacking him with a knife at their Gresham apartment.
The oversight body stated that Covarrubias did not adhere to the Chicago Police Department policy when he shot Craig and also failed to promptly administer medical aid, as reported by the Chicago Sun-Times. Superintendent Fred Waller diverged on whether the shooting itself violated policy but concurred on the lapse in providing medical assistance, recommending a 90-day suspension instead. The matter now proceeds to a police oversight panel to decide on Covarrubias' potential dismissal, following an $8.75 million settlement approved by the City Council for Craig's family.
As per accounts published by CBS News Chicago, Covarrubias, and his partner were repeatedly informed that Craig was the victim before they reached the apartment. Yet shortly after entering, Covarrubias drew both a Taser and a gun, shooting Craig twice as he and his wife appeared to be grappling over a knife. Body camera footage supports this sequence of events, painting a harrowing picture of the incident.
Michael Oppenheimer, an attorney for Craig's family, has been vocal in condemning the actions of the officer. "He executed a victim of domestic violence - when, as Patrick said, all evidence; phone calls indicated that Michael Craig was the victim, as he was being stabbed by his wife," Oppenheimer told CBS News Chicago. The drama surrounds a tragic irony, where a man calling for rescue from domestic violence was met with bullets from those sworn to protect him. The full COPA report with the firing recommendation has not been released, but the pressure is mounting for a thorough public examination.
Public sentiment is one of astonishment and frustration, reflected in the words of Ald. Daniel La Spata, who at a December hearing said he was "deeply angry about this case." Last month's financial settlement by the City Council addresses some damage but leaves behind a trail of questions about accountabilities in the CPD. Officer Covarrubias, whose past includes being nearly fired over an assault charge, and his partner remain on the force pending a full hearing by the Police Board.
