Chicago's NPR News Source
Chicago

Alderman Says COPA Excludes ‘Experienced Individuals’

At the University of Illinois at Chicago, Ald. Ed Burke, 14th, touted the successes of the city. From its rebirth after the Great Chicago Fire to recent developments, including several Fortune 500 companies moving to the city limits. But Burke, a former police officer, didn’t feel so optimistic about the new Civilian Office of Police Accountability. The board will replace the controversial Independent Police Review Authority. Burke criticized COPA because it doesn’t allow ex-officers to serve on the board.

 
14th ward alderman Ed Burke speaks to students about the future of Chicago at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

14th ward alderman Ed Burke speaks to students about the future of Chicago at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Yolanda Perdomo

Share

At the University of Illinois at Chicago, Ald. Ed Burke, 14th, touted the successes of the city. From its rebirth after the Great Chicago Fire to recent developments, including several Fortune 500 companies moving to the city limits.

But Burke, a former police officer, didn’t feel so optimistic about the new Civilian Office of Police Accountability. The board will replace the controversial Independent Police Review Authority.

Burke criticized the COPA ordinance because it doesn’t allow ex-officers to serve on the board.

“That ordinance excludes retired Chicago police officers who are really the pool of experienced individuals that can conduct these kinds of investigations,” Burke said.

Share
The Latest
NASCAR Chicago-SVG
Sports
What to know about NASCAR's 2024 Chicago Street Race
“Street tracks are different every year, no matter where you go,” Shane van Gisbergen said. “The burial location is always different, whether inside the curb or on top of it. The track always changes.”
By Kyle Williams
 
NASCAR Electric Car
Sports
A green flag for clean power: NASCAR unveils its first electric racecar
NASCAR has unveiled its first electric racecar in Chicago. One test driver said the sound and smell were unlikely anything he’d previously experienced.
By Jennifer McDermott | Associated Press  and Jay Cohen | Associated Press
 
NASCARSAT-070223-10.JPG
Chicago
Here are the roads being closed for the NASCAR Street Race this weekend
NASCAR Chicago Street Race begins this weekend, and sections of DuSable Lake Shore Drive and Michigan Avenue have closed to make way for the event.
By Layla Brown-Clark
 
NASCARSMALLBIZ-070424-22.jpg
Business
NASCAR looks to ease disruptions during Chicago Street Race, but businesses have mixed feelings
Some small business owners said they plan to close during the two-day event, but others are excited about the race and the boost in pedestrian traffic that could bring more sales.
By Amy Yee
 
JACK -IN- THE -BOX -- 0003A.132.jpg
Business
Jack in the Box is back in the box — fast-food chain returning to Chicago area starting next year
The San Diego-based chain is planning to open eight 24-hour restaurants in the city and suburbs in 2025 and 2026. One will be near Midway Airport, with the rest in the suburbs.
By Layla Brown-Clark