Mayor Brandon Johnson has appointed a seasoned veteran in police oversight, LaKenya White, as the interim chief administrator for the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA). As reported by the Chicago Sun-Times, White brings to the role over two decades of experience from various positions within the field, including an eight-year tenure at COPA since its inception.
Stepping into the interim role promises to not be an easy transition, with White expected to continue the accountability agency's work. In a nod to her capabilities, Mayor Johnson emphasized her “dedicated service” and experience, stating, "Her experience speaks for itself in her ability to respond decisively under pressure," as stated by CBS Chicago. White's comprehensive background in police oversight started as an intake aide back in 2000, which has since evolved through other roles such as an investigator and shooting specialist. She now takes the helm following Andrea Kersten's resignation last month amid controversy.
Kersten's departure came after tension with the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) over an incident involving the police shooting of Dexter Reed. According to a CBS Chicago report, Kersten questioned the actions of officers who fired 96 shots in 41 seconds at Reed's vehicle following a traffic stop, leading to a recommended settlement for Reed's family. These events likely set the stage for White's interim appointment, as Kersten stepped down before a potential termination.
LaKenya White, who has worked her way up from handling major cases to overseeing COPA's intake director of investigations, holds both a bachelor's degree and a master’s degree, the latter with a concentration on fraudulent investigations. "It is an honor to be appointed Interim Chief Administrator," White told the Chicago Sun-Times. Her visions for COPA include building on past successes and "further strengthening the positive strides we have made while fostering stronger connections between the community and the Chicago Police Department."
