Chicago Police Board Recommends Officer Involved in Fatal Shooting Be Separated from Department
Board Cites Violation of CPD Policies and Procedure
Recommendation Upheld Despite Superintendent’s Disagreement
The Chicago Police Board has recommended that an officer involved in a fatal shooting in April be separated from the department, citing violations of CPD policies and procedure. The board’s decision came after a thorough review of the case, including body camera footage, and a hearing with the officer.
According to the board, the officer engaged in a continued foot pursuit of the 24-year-old man who was shot and killed, Reginald Clay Jr., and failed to use de-escalation techniques to resolve the situation peacefully. The officer’s actions were found to be in violation of two CPD policies, leading to the recommendation that he be separated from the department.
Family Members React to Decision
Reginald Clay Sr., the father of the victim, and other family members were present at the meeting and expressed a mix of emotions. "I feel a little happy right now that they agree with us and the family for what they did to my son," Mr. Clay said. However, they also expressed disappointment that the decision was not a clear-cut guilty or not guilty verdict.
Officer’s Options to Fight for Job
WGN News is not currently naming the officer involved, as he has not been criminally charged, but officials have stated that he still has the opportunity to fight for his job. The officer can choose to proceed with a hearing before the police board or pursue private arbitration, depending on the outcome of a court ruling.
Administrative Ruling Overturns Superintendent’s Decision
CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling disagreed with the board’s recommendation, proposing that the allegations be classified as unsustained. However, the board’s president, Kyle Cooper, stated that the superintendent did not meet the burden of overcoming the chief administrator’s recommendation, and therefore, the board’s original decision will stand.
Clay Family’s Ongoing Lawsuit
The Clay family has an ongoing lawsuit against the Chicago Police Department, and this decision is just one part of their larger fight for justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the reason for the recommendation to separate the officer from the department?
The board found that the officer violated two CPD policies, engaging in a continued foot pursuit and failing to use de-escalation techniques. - What are the next steps for the officer?
The officer can choose to proceed with a hearing before the police board or pursue private arbitration, depending on the outcome of a court ruling. - What are the consequences of being separated from the department?
The officer will be removed from the force, and the details of the decision will be publicly disclosed.