In many quarters, it’s common knowledge that Chicago’s system of investigating shootings by officers is flawed. But the Tribune’s examination of the system shows that it is flawed at so many levels — critics say, by design — as to be broken.
After the shooting
cpd
The Chicago Police Department begins its investigation at the scene immediately. CPD is not required to put officers on desk duty.
ipra
The Independent Police Review Authority sends an investigator to the scene and shortly after forwards the case to the Cook County state's attorney's office.
union
A union spokesman often gives the first public account to media. The union contract allows officers at least a 24-hour cushion between the shooting and IPRA interview during investigations.
Investigations
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Determines whether charges can be brought against the civilian involved in the shooting.
ipra
IPRA has six months to complete investigations but sometimes takes longer.
prosecutor
The state's attorney can conduct an investigation but is not required to release findings unless criminal charges are filed. State’s attorney can take her own witness statements, review video and audio, review medical reports, etc.
feds
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The case also can be sent to federal investigators, who can conduct their own investigations.
Civil suit
cpd
CPD forwards findings to City Hall.
city hall
City Hall steps in to represent Chicago Police Department in lawsuits stemming from a shooting. Settlements of $100,000 or more must be approved by City Council. From May 2011 through October 2015, the city paid out $42.5 million for officer-involved shootings. During that time, 21 cases went to trial, with the city losing in five. Those five trials resulted in verdicts of $16 million against the city. The city has settled another 25 cases for $26.5 million.
union
Union continues to represent the officer.
Charges filed
union
Union continues to represent the officer.
prosecutor
If they find criminal wrongdoing on the officer's part, prosecutors can file charges — as Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez has done twice in recent years.
IPRA findings
cpd
If IPRA substantiates a claim, the Chicago police superintendent decides whether to enforce the recommended punishment based on the findings.
ipra
If the investigation finds the complaint substantiated, IPRA makes a disciplinary recommendation and forwards to Chicago police superintendent. Otherwise, the case ends. Findings are made public without identifying the officer in either outcome.
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