Illinois Mayor Opposes Consent Decree

 Posted on June 14, 2017 in Criminal Defense

When recently asked about an independent federal monitor, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel explained that “it is exactly the right way,” in regards to proposed oversight for the Chicago Police Department.

Negotiations between the Mayor and the Justice Department are focused on a memorandum of agreement. This would incorporate the structure for approving reforms that federal authorities have advocated for in the wake of several controversies whichhave rocked the Chicago Police Department in recent years.

Justice Department approval would still be required for the oversight measures to go into effect. The measures would include explicit oversight by an appointed independent monitor to oversee the proposed reforms. The Mayor’s administration believes that this is an important step further. However, some reform advocates are not satisfied.

Why Reform Advocates Want a Consent Decree

Police reform advocates had counted on a federal consent decree that authorizes the court to enforce the new policies instead of just monitoring them. The mayor defended his administration’s argument alleging that the road to reform is not as important as the reform itself.

Critics say that in the wake of the searing report released by the Justice Department roughly four months ago, more needs to be done than simply monitoring a problem that the community already knows exists. The Chicago Police Department has been saddled with controversies over their use of force policies.

The former head of the Civil Rights Division has argued that Chicago has seen a pattern of recommendations without teeth and that a consent decree would be a more potent tool to hold the police accountable to the suggested reforms.

The Justice Department and Consent Decrees

For a consent decree to take effect, the Justice Department must sign off on it. Initially, in the wake of the Justice Department report, Mayor Emanuel supported a consent decree. However, after the appointment of the current Attorney General, Jeff Sessions, it is unlikely that an agreement for a consent decree would be worked out with the city.

Police Investigations

Being investigated for a crime is a harrowing experience. One that is fraught with legal peril and can have serious detrimental consequences on your life. It is unwise to face these allegations on your own. Our experienced and dauntless Rolling Meadows criminal defense attorney will defend your rights at every stage of your investigation or subsequent case. Contact our Cook County office at 847-253-3100 to schedule your initial consultation.

Sources:

http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/independent-monitor-included-in-cpd-reform-agreement-sent-to-doj/amp/

https://www.wbez.org/shows/wbez-news/mayor-defends-cpd-monitor-over-consent-decree/2b92530c-0bb0-4c95-acb7-4cade9cc9d3a