OPS to switch to IPRA?
October 31, 2007 Chicago Sun-Times
BY FRAN SPIELMAN City Hall Reporter
The agency charged with investigating police brutality in Chicago would get a new name - the Independent Police Review Authority - under an ordinance introduced at Wednesday's City Council meeting.
Police Committee Chairman Isaac Carothers (29th) said he proposed the change from the much-maligned Office of Professional Standards after clearing the new name with chief administrator Ilana Rosenzweig. She's the Los Angeles attorney hired to restore public confidence in investigations of police wrongdoing.
"This [new] name indicates what it is - it's now independent. They are reviewing the various complaints against police officers. They have authority to make recommendations," Carothers said.
Earlier this year, the City Council agreed to sever OPS from the Police Department and turn it into a separate city department with subpoena power and a chief administrator who reports directly to the mayor. Firm deadlines were established for completing investigations and acting on OPS recommendations. Carothers also disclosed that he plans to hold City Council hearings to outline for the public the process of investigating police shootings.
Ald. Ed Smith (28th) told reporters the hearings would investigate police brutality and turn up the heat on Mayor Daley to release the names of officers most often accused of excessive force.
But, Carothers, one of Daley's staunchest Council supporters, has no intention of embarrassing Daley."That may be his spin on it, but it's not mine," the chairman said of Smith's remarks
www.ruffcommunications.com
Posts
