Alderman Says COPA Excludes ‘Experienced Individuals’

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 / WBEZ
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 / WBEZ

Alderman Says COPA Excludes ‘Experienced Individuals’

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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.