Chicago City Wire

The Fraternal Order of Police, representing Chicago police officers below the rank of sergeant, has appealed two rulings from a March 21 Cook County Circuit Court decision. This decision allows officers to opt for arbitration over a Police Board hearing in serious disciplinary cases. The union is contesting the requirements that arbitration proceedings be public and that accused officers can be suspended without pay while awaiting arbitration.

The appeal has been fully briefed before the Illinois Appellate Court, and it remains uncertain if oral arguments will be held.

Currently, 16 cases are pending where officers have requested arbitration. These cases are paused until a public arbitration process is established. Additionally, no Police Board hearings will occur without the officer's consent.

Meanwhile, five Police Board cases are progressing. Four involve officers who chose a Police Board hearing, and one involves a CPD lieutenant.