Paula Wolff Director, Illinois Justice Project | The Chicago Community trust Website
Paula Wolff Director, Illinois Justice Project | The Chicago Community trust Website
The Chicago Police Board has released its 2024 Annual Report, highlighting the year's key developments and activities. Police Board President Kyle Cooper expressed satisfaction with the board's continued efforts to promote impartiality and transparency in the city's police-accountability system.
A notable legal development occurred on March 21, 2024, when a Cook County Circuit Court judge ruled that Chicago police officers could opt to have serious disciplinary cases heard by an arbitrator instead of the Police Board. The Fraternal Order of Police is appealing part of this decision regarding public access to arbitration hearings. Meanwhile, the City has accepted the court's ruling. This situation has caused disruptions in handling police disciplinary cases, leaving sixteen cases on hold and reducing new case submissions.
In 2024, there was an increase in appeals from applicants removed from eligibility for probationary police officer positions due to background checks. The board reviewed 67 such appeals during the year.
The board’s monthly public meetings, broadcast live by CAN TV, serve as a platform for discussions on policing issues. These meetings feature reports from various officials and invite experts to present on diverse topics. Public participation is encouraged through question-and-comment sessions. The September meeting attracted over 32,000 live viewers, while April's meeting drew more than 50,000.
Six new members joined the board in 2024: Claudia Badillo, Kathryn Liss, Justin Terry began their terms in June; Tyler Hall, Arlette Porter, and Cynthia Velazquez were appointed in December and confirmed by January 15, 2025.
President Cooper acknowledged three departing members: Paula Wolff served as vice president since 2018; Mareilé Cusack and Nanette Doorley joined in 2021. He praised their contributions and especially commended Vice President Wolff for her invaluable wisdom.
Cooper concluded by emphasizing the dedication of all board members to ensuring respectful and effective policing for Chicago residents.
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