Chicago City Wire

Social justice activism has become more visible in Chicago media, according to a recent essay published by the Contrarian. Paul Vallas, former mayoral candidate and CEO of Chicago Public Schools, discussed how journalists often present a negative perspective of the Chicago Police Department (CPD). His commentary was published on September 15th, following the fatal shooting of an undocumented immigrant in Franklin Park. The incident led to heightened reactions from media outlets and prompted the creation of a mapping tool intended to track Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.

The new tool has raised concerns about its impact on journalism and public safety. Tom Weitzel, retired Chief of Police, stated that he contacted Kimberly Kelly, Editor-in-Chief of the Chicago Sun-Times and WBEZ radio, to express his apprehension about the mapping initiative. He noted that both news organizations are closely connected.

Weitzel said he was troubled by reports that "the Chicago Sun-Times had encouraged citizens to use a portal to upload photos of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations — photos that the paper’s journalists may use in their reporting, and which could lead reporters to respond directly to those scenes for further investigation." He also highlighted concerns over "the Sun-Times developed the mapping tool that allows the public to track ICE agents throughout Chicago and its suburbs."

Weitzel warned that while community involvement is important, tools like this could increase risks for ICE officers who serve as federal law enforcement with full policing authority. According to Weitzel, data from the Department of Homeland Security indicates there has been an increase—over 500 percent—in assaults against ICE agents nationwide. He referenced an incident in Franklin Park where an agent sustained serious injuries after being hit by a vehicle driven by an undocumented immigrant. Similar incidents have reportedly taken place elsewhere in California and Texas.

Weitzel argued that “the rhetoric and tools promoted by the Sun-Times contribute to a hostile environment that can lead to real violence.” He cited a recent award show where criticism of ICE was broadcast nationally as further contributing to what he described as growing hostility toward law enforcement.

He emphasized that local police generally do not participate in ICE operations unless federal agents face direct threats but may be called upon for assistance when needed. Weitzel mentioned an attack on an ICE facility in Dallas involving an assailant from Oklahoma as evidence of escalating dangers faced by law enforcement personnel.

Weitzel wrote: "Kimberly Kelly: I urge you to remove the mapping tool and reconsider the implications of encouraging such public tracking. Responsible journalism must balance transparency with public safety. This mapping 'tool' does not acheive a balance."

Tom Weitzel retired after 37 years in law enforcement, including 13 years as Chief of Police. Opinions expressed are his own.