Chicago City Wire

Eileen O'Neill Burke, the Cook County State’s Attorney, recently announced her office will not file charges against four Chicago police officers involved in the fatal shooting of Dexter Reed during a March 2024 traffic stop. This decision follows an independent review by an appellate prosecutor and comes after forensic evidence confirmed that Reed fired on police first, injuring Officer Gregory Saint Louis. According to authorities, Reed's weapon matched the bullet found in the officer's arm, and gunshot residue was present on his hands.

The incident lasted just over a minute and was captured on video. Police reports indicate that Reed refused commands before opening fire with an illegal firearm. The officers returned fire as Reed continued to shoot before collapsing behind his vehicle.

Burke’s decision marks a shift from previous prosecutorial policies under former State’s Attorney Kim Foxx. Foxx had faced criticism for measures such as easing prosecution of shoplifting offenses and supporting bail reform efforts like the SAFE-T Act, which eliminated cash bail in Illinois courts. These policies were linked by critics to rising crime rates and repeat offenses in Chicago.

Burke stated that her decision reflects an application of existing law: "Reed shot a cop. The cops shot back. That’s not injustice — that’s paying the price for using terrible judgment and attacking police officers with a firearm."

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has promoted investments in community-based violence prevention initiatives but faces ongoing criticism regarding public safety strategies. Critics argue these programs have not curbed rising incidents of property crime or gang activity across neighborhoods.

Members of the Democratic Socialists of America caucus within Chicago’s City Council continue to call for reduced police funding while advocating for expanded social services—a position at odds with those calling for more robust law enforcement responses.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle previously supported Foxx and her successor, but voters shifted course in recent elections, selecting Burke instead.

Burke's approach signals a potential change in Cook County's criminal justice direction, emphasizing traditional prosecution methods over progressive reforms favored by some city officials and advocacy groups. As political debates over public safety continue in Chicago, observers are watching whether this move will influence future policy decisions or electoral outcomes.