This is a page where 1st Ward Staff will provide actionable summaries from calls with the Police, or other public safety partners.

+ Week of March 18, 2024

Written and published March 21, 2024

Updates

There were a total of 46 crimes in the 1st Ward last week, 28 of which were nonviolent thefts.

There were 4 calls pertaining to shots fired, all four of which were reported in the 14th District.

There were 3 reported motor vehicular thefts reported in the following Beat(s):

• 1424 (March 17th)
• 1424 (March 14th)
• 1421 (March 13th)

The following is a breakdown of the vehicle make(s) that were reported:

• 2 Hyundai
• 1 Volkswagen

There was 1 reported burglary in the 14th District. The incident was reported in the following Beat(s):

• 1431 (March 13th)

Narrative: In 1 incident (1431), it was reported that 2 windows were broken, and the rear door(s) were tampered with. No items were taken.

There were 7 reported robberies in the 14th District. The incidents were reported in the following Beat(s):

• 1411 (March 16th)
• 1424 (March 14th)
• 1424 (March 13th)
• 1424 (March 13th)
• 1434 (March 13th)
• 1411 (March 13th)
• 1434 (March 11th)

Narrative: In 1 incident (1411), it was reported that the victim had observed a vehicle pull up adjacent to their own. 3 unknown offenders would proceed to approach the victim. One of the offenders taking the victim’s personal belongings. Personal property which consisted of the following: Credit/Debit Card(s), $150 in Cash, and iPhone 15. In another incident (1424), it was reported that the victim was stepping out of their vehicle when 3 unknown offenders exited a grey SUV and proceeded to approach them. One of the offenders pointed a gun at the victim and would demand to take their property. The victim was also coerced into retracting large sums of cash from personal banking accounts. In another incident (1424), it was reported that victim was walking on the sidewalk as they were on their way home when a dark sedan had approached them. 4 young male individuals exited the vehicle, and proceeded to take the victim’s personal belongings. Personal property which consisted of the following: Gym Bag and iPhone 13 mini. The unknown offenders would request passcode access to the victim’s iPhone, and victim would later receive notifications concerning bank account access. In another incident (1424), it was reported that victim was walking to their vehicle when 4 unknown male offenders existed a Black Infiniti, and proceeded to point guns at the victim while demanding for their personal property. Personal property of which consisted of the following: iPhone w/ Credit Card Holder and Cash. The unknown offenders re-entered the Black Infiniti, and proceeded to flee southbound on Leavitt and Division. In another incident (1434), it was reported that victim would observe 4 males flagging down an officer, as they had witnessed another individual being robbed. In an attempt to help stop the event from continuing to unfold, the victim was then approached by the 3 unknown offenders and was robbed as well. Unknown offenders fled eastbound on North Ave. In another incident (1411), it was reported that victim was approached and pushed by 2 unknown male offenders which demanded the victim to hand over their personal belongings. Personal property of which consisted of the following: tote-bag. After fleeing with the victim’s bag, offenders would return and proceed to take the victim’s phone as well. Unknown offenders would enter a black sedan and flee eastbound on Sacramento. In another incident (1434), it was reported that victim was walking on sidewalk when they had observed an Infiniti perform a U-turn and proceeded to park adjacent to them. Unknown offenders would exit the vehicle and demand the victim to hand over their personal belongings. Personal property of which consisted of the following: Bag, iPhone, and Debit/Credi Card(s).

Week of March 11, 2024

CPD Update

CPD is excited to announce the launch of their new initiative, the Vehicle Safety Fast Pass, aimed at enhancing safety measures for our community members' vehicles. Vehicle Safety Day is an initiative that will provide residents with theft deterrent tools to help keep vehicles safe and secure.

In partnership with the Cook County Sheriff's Office, they are offering an exclusive opportunity for residents to expedite essential safety services. With, the Vehicle Safety Fast Pass, individuals can access express services to receive a steering wheel lock and have their catalytic converter etched using one of our professional etching kits.

Additionally, the Cook County Sheriff's Office will be onsite to facilitate sign-ups for their GPS tracking program, further bolstering vehicle safety measures.

For more information, and to sign up for any of their upcoming scheduled events, please visit the following link.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

District Council Nominating Committee Nominates Fifteen Candidates for the Permanent Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability

Today, the District Council Nominating Committee announced the nomination of fifteen candidates to serve on the permanent Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability. They are, in alphabetical order: Jose Abonce, Anthony Driver Jr., Bernardo Gomez, Aaron Gottlieb, Nakiyah Matthews, Art Mitchell, Abierre Minor, Angel Rubi Navarijo, Kelly Presley, Deondre Rutues, Remel Terry, Nyshana Sumner, Sandra Wortham, La’Mont Williams, and Edward Washington II. Brief biographies of the nominees are included.

“The fifteen nominees represent a cross-section of Chicago’s vibrant and diverse communities, each bringing their unique perspectives, professional, and lived experiences to the table. These candidates have each demonstrated a commitment to public safety and police accountability and embody the values necessary to contribute to the critical work of the Commission,” said Angelica Green, 25th District Councilor.

The Nominating Committee is made up of one member from each of the city’s 22 District Councils. By law, whenever there is a vacancy on the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability, the Nominating Committee must conduct a search and nominate at least two candidates to fill each vacancy. The Mayor must select Commissioners from the Nominating Committee’s list of candidates. Selected candidates must then be confirmed by the City Council.

This is a historic milestone—the first time that members of Chicago’s powerful new police oversight body will be selected through a community-driven process. An interim Commission was created in 2022, before the first District Council elections. Members of the interim Commission were nominated by the City Council and selected by the Mayor.

Throughout the sixty-day nomination process, the Nominating Committee followed a comprehensive and community-driven approach. Key highlights of the nomination process include:

• Citywide Search: The Nominating Committee launched a request for applications on February 7, 2024 to attract a diverse pool of applicants with a strong reputation for integrity, leadership, and community involvement. One hundred and twenty people applied.
• Robust and Intentional Community Engagement: The Nominating Committee, dedicated to community engagement, crafted a survey and conducted twenty-two public meetings to capture residents’ preferences for the next Commission. The Committee also hosted three webinars and held informational sessions with various stakeholders, including youth, legal organizations, community activists, non-profits, economic development institutions, and affinity groups.
• Community-Informed Rubric: Based on the Commissioner qualifications that are laid out in the ordinance and input Nominating Committee members received throughout the community engagement process, the Committee developed a community-informed rubric to assess candidates based on their commitment to and history of community engagement; commitment to police accountability; fairness, open-mindedness, and equity; transparency-focused; creativity and vision; subject-matter expertise and competency; capacity; collaboration and understanding of others; and credibility and professionalism.
• Comprehensive Assessment: The Committee anonymized all applications to ensure an unbiased review. Collaborating with data experts, the Committee employed both qualitative and quantitative methods and randomization techniques to ensure a fair evaluation process. Utilizing scores and a consensus- building approach, thirty-three candidates were invited to interview. The Committee prepared for application reviews and interviews by engaging in simulated exercises on mock applicants to practice reviewing and scoring applicants. The Committee selected fifteen candidates for nomination to the mayor.

“The Nominating Committee, with all of our diverse perspectives, has united around a common goal- to identify the best candidates who can represent all Chicagoans in matters of public safety and accountability. I am confident that the mayor has access to a candidate pool of the brightest minds and most dedicated individuals Chicago has to offer,” said Anthony D. Bryant, 3rd District Councilor.

The ordinance sets out qualifications for Commissioners. At least two Commissioners must have at least ten years of experience as a practicing attorney. At least one Commissioner must have at least ten years of experience in community organizing. At least two Commissioners must be between the ages of 18-24 at the time they are appointed. Except for the two Commissioners between the ages of 18-24, Commissioners must have at least five years of experience in law, public policy, social work, psychology, mental health, public safety, community organizing, civil rights, or advocacy on behalf of marginalized communities. At least two Commissioners must live on the South Side, at least two must live on the West Side, and at least two must live on the North Side. The nominated candidates bring diverse backgrounds and valuable experience to the table. For each of the seven vacancies on the Commission, there are at least two nominees who meet each of the requirements.

Jose Abonce is a South Side resident and a community organizer. He currently serves as a Senior Program Manager for the Policing Project’s Chicago Neighborhood Policing Initiative. Previously, as an organizer for Austin Coming Together, he worked to develop the Austin neighborhood’s quality of life plan. He worked at the University of Illinois Chicago’s Center for Public Safety and Justice, where he developed community-generated action plans with individuals directly impacted by the criminal justice system.

Anthony Driver is a South Side resident and a community organizer. He is the President of the interim Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability, a post he has held since the interim Commission was established in 2022. He has a background in community activism and public affairs. He currently works as the Executive Director for SEIU IL. He played a key role in the coalition that advocated for the creation of the Commission and helped draft the Commission’s founding ordinance.

Bernardo Gomez is a North Side resident and one of the four candidates for the two youth representatives on the Commission. He currently works as the Community Engagement Manager at the Mayor’s Office of Community Engagement and serves as the Chair of the City’s Disability Resource Group. At the Community Safety Coordination Center, Bernardo has developed experience in working with multiple agencies to holistically reduce and prevent crime.

Aaron Gottlieb is a North Side resident and Assistant Professor at the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. He is a member of the Consent Decree Use of Force Working Group, which functions to review use of force policies of the Chicago Police Department. He played a key role in the coalition that advocated for the creation of the Commission and helped draft the Commission’s founding ordinance.

Nakiyah Matthews is a West Side resident and one of four candidates for the two youth representatives on the Commission. As an Academic Advisor for Introspect Youth Services, she provides mentorship to many Chicago Public School students. She is an artist and an educator with leadership experience from Columbia College’s Black Student Union. She is a member of the NAACP West Side Branch, where she serves on the Political Action, Housing, and Criminal Justice Committees.

Art Mitchell is a North Side resident and the Deputy Director of Litigation and Policy for the National Democratic Redistricting Committee. He is a member of the Black Lawyers’ Association. He has a background in community organizing and previously served as a policy and budget staffer for the Illinois State Senate. He played a key role in training and educating candidates for the inaugural class of elected District Council members.

Abierre Minor is a South Side resident and one of the four candidates for the two youth representatives on the Commission. In addition to working as the Chief Fiscal Officer of the Progressive Minds Show, Abierre is a Consultant for Our Hands Our Work, which supports youth in contact with the criminal justice system. She previously worked as Chief of Staff for State Senator Mattie Hunter.

Angel Rubi Navarijo is a North Side resident and one of the four candidates for the two youth representatives on the Commission. He currently works as Director of Constituent Services for Alderwoman Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth. He also serves on the Non-Citizen Advisory Council for the CCPSA, which provides input to the Commission from the perspectives of immigrants and non-citizen Chicagoans. He is a member of the Board of Directors for Serving People with a Mission, a youth-led organization focused on developing future servant leaders.

Kelly Pressley is a West Side resident and a long-time practicing attorney. She currently serves as the Associate General Counsel for Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, the largest human service provider in the Chicago metropolitan region. She previously worked as an attorney for the Illinois Department of Corrections, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, and the Office of the Public Guardian.

Deondre Rutues is a West Side resident and a Research Scholar and Community Engagement Specialist working for the Policing Project on the Neighborhood Policing Initiative in Chicago. He is also a Board member for the Bobby E. Wright Behavioral Health Center. He has a strong background in community organizing and volunteer service. In May 2023, he was elected to serve as a member of the 15th District Council.

Nyshana Sumner is a South Side resident and a long-time practicing attorney. She has worked in the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office as an Assistant State’s Attorney for 20 years, and currently serves in one of the State’s Attorney’s Community Justice Centers. She has direct experience working with the Chicago Police Department and the Civilian Office for Police Accountability (COPA). She has exercised strong community engagement through her role at the Mark United Methodist Church in Chatham.

Remel Terry is a West Side resident and community organizer. Since 2022, she has been a member of the interim Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability and currently serves as Vice President. She is the Director of Programs at Equiticity, a racial equity movement that programs and advocates for racial equity, increased mobility, and racial justice. She is the First Vice President of Chicago’s West Side NAACP, Vice Chair of the Make A Wish Targeted Community Engagement Council and served on an advisory council for COPA.

Sandra Wortham is a South Side resident and long-time practicing attorney with a focus on civil litigation. She also serves as an administrative law judge for the City of Chicago and as a hearing officer for the State of Illinois. She previously worked as a civilian for the Chicago Police Department, including as Deputy Director of Patrol. She is the President of the Nat King Cole Park Advisory Council and the Executive Board President of the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation.

La’Mont Williams is a South Side resident and the Chief of Staff for Cook County Commissioner Bill Lowry. His extensive legislative experience includes a focus on anti-violence efforts. He is on the Board of Directors for Minority Legal Resources, Inc, which provides mentorship for minority law students. He previously served as the Assistant Program Director of Just the Beginning – A Pipeline Organization, an organization dedicated to assisting students of color and those from underrepresented communities on the path to law school.

Hon. Edward Washington II is a South Side resident and a retired trial judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County. He previously served as the national chair of the U.S. Justice Department Violent Juvenile Offenders Program, which developed and implemented community-based initiatives focusing on the social and educational challenges of reducing juvenile crime. He also previously worked as the Chief of the Public Interest Division of the Office of the Illinois Attorney General. He currently works as a mediator in alternate dispute resolution.

The Nominating Committee will submit the names of the fifteen nominated candidates to Mayor Brandon Johnson for his consideration. By ordinance, the mayor has 30 days to review the candidates and select seven nominees provided by the Nominating Committee. The Nominating Committee will continue to provide updates via the CCPSA website.

Week of March 4, 2024

Week of February 26, 2024

Written and published February 27, 2024

Updates

There were a total of 39 crimes in the 1st Ward last week, all 39 of which were nonviolent thefts.

There were 2 calls pertaining to shots fired, both of which were reported in the 12th District. The two reported shots fired pertain to the same incident, which resulted in the offenders being quickly apprehended and placed into custody.

There were 7 reported motor vehicular thefts reported in the following Beat(s):

• 1434 (February 25th)
• 1424 (February 24th)
• 1424 (February 24th)
• 1424 (February 24th)
• 1433 (February 22nd)
• 1424 (February 21st)
• 1423 (February 19th)

The following is a breakdown of the vehicle make(s) that were reported:

• 3 Hyundai
• 3 Kia
• 1 BMW

There were 2 reported burglaries, both of which were reported in the 14th District. The incidents were reported in the following Beat(s):

• 1431 (February 22nd)
• 1424 (February 20th)

Narrative: In 1 incident (1431), it was reported that the rear window of a vehicle was broken into, and a backpack was taken from said vehicle. In another incident (1424), an establishment’s front window was shattered. Although scissor gates were in place, 4 unknown offenders, wearing gloves and masks, had climbed through the fencing, and had taken $10,000 worth of merchandise. Camera footage would later reveal the 4 unknown offenders fleeing in a Grey Infiniti Sedan.

Week of February 19, 2024

CPS Update

Please see below an official statement from CPS in regards to their recent decision on the removal of SROs from CPS schools.

Dear Elected Official,

As the leaders of Chicago Public Schools (CPS), there is nothing we take more seriously than keeping staff and students safe. As a District, we are 100 percent committed to our school community members’ physical, mental and emotional well-being. To truly achieve our goal of whole school safety, we must look beyond a narrow set of physical safety protocols and include emotional support for all children and trusting relationships between CPS students and adults.

Earlier today, the Chicago Board of Education took an important step toward achieving this goal, adopting a resolution to expand the District’s Whole School Safety Framework to all CPS schools. This resolution calls on CPS to develop a new Whole School Safety policy that will establish best practices for a holistic approach to school safety Districtwide. This plan will be presented to the Board of Education for approval in the summer of 2024, and will go into effect at the start of the 2024–25 school year.

The new Whole School Safety Policy will bring certain initiatives to a close, including the use of School Resource Officers (SROs) in CPS schools. For reference, 39 of CPS’ 91 high schools are currently using SROs this year. Elementary schools do not have SROs.

We want to be clear that many schools will still employ physical safety personnel like security guards at points of entry, and crossing guards and Safe Passage workers to ensure students can get to and from school safely. Some schools will also continue to use physical security tools such as security cameras or metal detectors. Furthermore, each school will still maintain a relationship with their local Chicago Police Department “School Sergeant,” a position assigned to each police district to provide safety support to schools.

With the sunset of the SRO program, the funding previously allocated to these roles at impacted schools will instead be available for alternative safety positions, resources, and interventions that meet the unique needs of these specific schools. These may include:

• Restorative justice coordinators and youth intervention specialists
• Professional development for staff, including training in de-escalation strategies
• Wrap-around supports and mentoring programs
• Re-engagement, healing-centered, and restorative discipline practices

Many schools across CPS have already used funding previously allocated for SROs to create their own individual Whole School Safety plans that incorporate these alternatives.

The new District policy will build upon the progress that has already been made in a long line of school safety reforms that CPS has undertaken in the past decade. In that time, fewer schools have employed SROs, and as a District, we have moved from a zero-tolerance model focused mainly on physical safety to a broader, more restorative approach that takes into consideration our students’ mental and emotional health. This shift has been effective, resulting in a significant drop in suspensions, expulsions, police notifications, and safety incidents impacting students on their way to and from school.

The goal of the new Whole School Safety Policy will be to ensure that every school in every neighborhood has the resources, partnerships, and supports needed to provide students and staff with the confidence that they are safe and supported at school.

Over the next few months, the CPS Office of Safety and Security, in partnership with the Whole School Safety Community-Based Organization Steering Committee, will engage with school leaders, labor partners, Local School Councils, and school communities to create the District’s new Whole School Safety Policy. We will share details around these engagement opportunities shortly.

We thank you for your partnership and look forward to engaging with you around this critically-important work.

Sincerely,

Pedro Martinez/ Chief Executive Officer/ Chicago Public Schools

Jianan Shi/ President/ Chicago Board of Education

Message from CPD: Community Survey on Training

Our CPD is currently conducting research in partnership with the University of Chicago, in order to better evaluate what our public thinks police training should focus on within their programming. Please visit the link provided below, or by scanning the QR-Code in order to fill out this survey.

Week of February 5, 2024

Written and published February 8, 2024

Updates

There were a total of 56 crimes in the 1st Ward last week, 41 of which were nonviolent thefts.

There were 3 calls pertaining to shots fired, all of which were reported in the 14th District.

There were 3 reported robberies, all three of which were reported in the 14th District. The incidents were reported in the following Beat(s):

• 1424 (February 4th)
• 1433 (February 1st)
• 1434 (January 30th)

Narrative: In 1 incident (1424), it was reported that victim had finished parking their vehicle, when they had observed a dark sedan pull up alongside their own vehicle. They were then blocked in by the dark sedan, and 3-4 individuals approached his vehicle, and one unknown offender revealed and pointed a gun at them. Some personal belongings were taken from them. The unknown offenders would proceed to re-enter the dark sedan and fled northbound on Wood. In another incident (1433), it was reported that the cashier of an establishment was approached by an unknown black male offender, wearing a grey beanie, dark puffer jacket, and blue backpack. The unknown offender proceeded to ask how they would feel if robbed, and proceeded to request for all of the money available in the register to be handed over to him. Victim reported that $100 dollars were taken from the register, and that the unknown offender did not have a mask or gloves on during this event. Unknown offender would proceed to flee southbound on Division. In another incident (1434), it was reported that the father of the victim was approached and robbed outside of the establishment by an unknown offender. The unknown offender proceeded to verbally threaten the victim and their father, and proceeded to take from them the following items: backpack, gold chain, MacBook, and other personal belongings. The victims quickly sought shelter in a nearby gas station.

There were 3 reported burglaries, all three of which were reported in the 14th District. The incidents were reported in the following Beat(s):

• 1424 (February 4th)
• 1433 (February 2nd)
• 1434 (January 30th)

Narrative: In 1 incident (1424), it was reported that victim was approaching their establishment when they had noticed broken glass to the entrance of said locale. Upon reviewing their footage, they had observed the unknown offender use a sledgehammer to enter via the windows of said establishment. Money had been taken from their register, and the victim reported that the establishment had suffered property damages within the realm of $5000 dollars. In another incident (1433), it was reported that the victim, upon arriving to their establishment, had noticed that it had been broken into. Upon reviewing their footage, they had observed 4 unknown offenders breaking into said locale from their side-window. All four offenders were wearing gloves, and had both arrived and exited the scene in a dark SUV. Additionally, they had noted that the SUV in question had remained parked close to the establishment prior to their breaking in. In another incident (1434), victim would report that they had arrived to their place of work when they noticed their glass door having been broken into. They would later observe a rock on the ground, as the likely source used to break into the establishment. They would also note that their tip box had been tampered with. $20 dollars were reported stolen from said box, and after further review of their camera footage, they had observed 2 unknown offenders as the individuals who had entered. One operated as a look-out, while the other entered with the use of gloves.

There were 3 reported motor vehicular thefts reported in the following Beat(s):

• 1433 (February 4th)
• 1423 (February 4th)
• 1431 (January 30th)

The following is a breakdown of the vehicle make(s) that were reported:

• 2 Hyundai
• 1 Kia

Week of January 29, 2024

Written and published February 1, 2024

Updates

There were a total of 55 crimes in the 1st Ward last week, 36 of which were nonviolent thefts.

There were 6 calls pertaining to shots fired, 3 of which were reported in the 14th District.

There were 2 reported burglaries, both of which were reported within the 14th District. The incidents were reported in the following Beats:

• 1434 (January 27th)
• 1431 (January 25th)

Narrative: In 1 incident (1434), it was reported that victim had arrived home, and noticed that 2 Apple iPads had been taken, as well as some money. It was later determined that their rear window was open. In another incident (1431), it was reported that victim had returned to their home, when they had noticed that their bedroom door was open and several of their personal belongings were left scattered throughout their home. Upon arrival, police would assess that the victim’s rear-window had been open, and was likely the cause of entry.

There was 1 reported case of aggravated battery which was reported within the 14th District. The incident was reported in the following Beat:

• 1424 (January 22nd)

Narrative: In this incident (1424), it was reported that victim was approached and attacked by 4 unknown male individuals. 1 male individual proceeded to stab the victim and was assaulted by the other 3 unknown individuals. Their descriptions were the following: Unknown Male 1: Red Sweater and Red Hat / Unknown Male 2: Blue Puffer Coat and Black Pants / Unknown Male 3: Black Sweater, Black Pants, and Face Mask / Unknown Male 4: All Black Clothing.

There were a total of 4 reported motor vehicular thefts in the following Beats:

• 1423 (January 27th)
• 1431 (January 25th)
• 1431 (January 25th)
• 1411 (January 23rd)

The following is a breakdown of vehicle make(s) that were reported:

• 1 Hyundai
• 1 Kia
• 1 Chevrolet
• 1 Infiniti

There were a total of 4 reported robberies. The incidents were reported in the following Beats:

• 1424 (January 26th)
• 1424 (January 26th)
• 1414 (January 22nd)
• 1434 (January 22nd)

Narrative: In 1 incident (1424), it was reported that an unknown male and female had entered the store, and would proceed to place several items into shopping cart. The two individuals would proceed to exit the store without paying. Victim would proceed to follow individuals into the parking lot in order to confirm if they may have had a receipt. Upon request, one of the individuals took out a knife, and attempted to stab the victim. Both unknown offenders would exit eastbound from the vicinity. In another incident (1424), it was reported that victim had noticed their establishment having been broken into. They later observed through video footage of an unknown individual entering through the front door of the establishment. An unknown object was reported as having been used for entry. The offender would remove their shoes prior to entry, and would proceed to take $200 dollars from the register, and an additional $468 from the establishment’s safe. Offender would proceed to exit through the front entrance. In another incident (1414), it was reported that victim was walking to their home, when 2 unknown male offenders proceeded to approach them and would take their bag. In another incident (1434), it was reported that victim was robbed at gun point, as two unknown males quickly exited a Grey Dodge Durango, and had taken the victim’s wallet and power tools from their own vehicle. The unknown male individuals then loaded all items back into the Grey Dodge Durango and fled eastbound of the vicinity.

Updates

There were a total of 29 crimes in the 1st Ward last week, 21 of which were nonviolent thefts.

There was 1 call pertaining to shots fired reported in the 14th District.

There was 1 reported attempted burglary which was reported within the 14th District. The incident occurred in the following Beat:

• 1414 (January 18th)

Narrative: In this incident (1414), it was reported that glass panels were shattered, and 2 male individuals had existed the property with crowbars in hand. They were last seen entering a 2-door coupe.

There was 1 reported vehicular hijacking which was reported within the 14th District. The incident occurred in the following Beat:

• 1431 (January 20th)

Narrative: In this incident (1431), it was reported that victim was in their parked car when a car pulled up, and 2 men exited the vehicle and displayed weapons. Victim then handed over their keys and phone. The vehicle was later recovered and towed, as a result of it being involved in a car accident.

There was 1 reported strong armed robbery which was reported within the 14th District. The incident occurred in the following Beat:

• 1431 (January 20th)

Narrative: In this incident (1431), 3 juveniles were ID'd and apprehended, and are currently in custody. It was reported that victim was on CTA train when approached by 3 juveniles. The 3 individuals then proceeded to ask victim if they were interested in purchasing drugs. Victim denied, and was later demanded to hand over their money. Offenders proceeded to punch the victim, and had stolen their phone and money.

There were 2 reported robberies within the 14th District. The incidents occurred in the following Beat(s):

• 1433 (January 18th)
• 1424 (January 15th)

Narrative: In one incident (1433), victim reported that they had seen the offender collect and steal several bottles of lotion. Unknown offender proceeded to exit store with unpaid items. Victim attempted to apprehend said offender; however, offender threatened them with the use of pepper spray. In another incident (1424), victim reported that 4-5 male offenders had entered the store. 2 of the offenders proceeded to point handguns at the victim, while 2 other individuals watched the door. Offenders proceeded to take money from the register, and would later punch the vicitm.

There were a total of 3 reported motor vehicular thefts in the 1st Ward, 2 of which were attempted motor vehicular thefts. The incidents occured in the following Beat(s):

• 1414 (January 18th)
• 1414 (January 18th)
• 1414 (January 14th)

The following is a breakdown of the vehicle make(s) that were reported:

• 1 Kia
• 1 Hyundai
• 1 Honda

Week of January 8, 2024

Winter Advisory: Storm Watch

The Chicago area (northeast Illinois and northwest Indiana) can expect heavy snow with blowing snow possible. Total snow accumulations greater than 6 inches possible with wind gusts as high as 45 to 50 mph. The strongest winds with the potential for blizzard conditions are expected Friday evening into early Saturday.

Travel could be dangerous.

Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. Hazardous conditions will impact the morning and evening commutes on Friday, January 12. Drivers are advised to slow down, use caution while traveling and yield to snowplows and emergency vehicles.

The Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS) has salt spreaders out on City streets, monitoring conditions on arterial routes, DuSable Lake Shore Drive, as well as city bridges and overpasses, to ensure roads are safe and passable for emergency vehicles, public transportation and other travelers.

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) strongly encourages caution while driving and following these safety tips:

• Allow extra time to reach your destination.
• Leave plenty of space between vehicles.
• Have a full tank of gas and let friends and relatives know where you are going.
• Make sure you have an emergency kit in your vehicle with a cell phone charger, flashlight, food, and water.
• Yield to emergency vehicles as well as Streets and Sanitation salt spreaders and plows.

As a reminder, the Overnight Winter Parking Ban is in effect through April on major streets. The ban helps ensure public safety by allowing emergency vehicles, public transportation and other travelers to move freely during snowy and icy weather. Please follow posted signage restrictions.

OEMC will monitor weather conditions with the National Weather Service in Chicago and coordinate response efforts with the City’s public safety and infrastructure departments and public partners to keep residents safe and informed.

CCPSA Commissioner Applications NOW OPEN & Upcoming Webinar on 1/11

This week members of the District Council Nominating Committee launched the application and nomination process for the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability, for the very first time. The Community Commission is a seven-member body that works to increase public safety, transparency, and community input into the Chicago Police Department (CPD), the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA), and Police Board operations, policies, and procedures.

The Nominating Committee represents the full diversity of our city, with representatives from each of Chicago's 22 Police District Councils. While the Mayor will make final appointments to the Commission, only candidates nominated by the Nominating Committee will have the opportunity to serve on this body.

Applications to serve on the 7-member Commission are open until Feb. 7, 2024 at 12pm. Qualified individuals passionate about shaping public safety can access the application via the CCPSA website at www.cityofchicago.org/chicagocommunitycommission.

To offer insights into the application process, criteria, and answer any questions you may have, the Nominating Committee is hosting a webinar on Thursday, January 11, 2024 at 6pm. Register for the webinar here: https://cityofchicago-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_GdKV6pKMRFKEyv_0PJt37w

Join CCPSA for this informational session, where members of the Nominating Committee will share essential details about the application and answer questions from potential applicants!

Written and published January 10, 2023

Updates

There were a total of 39 crimes in the 1st Ward last week, 23 of which were nonviolent thefts.

There were 3 calls pertaining to shots fired, all of them were in the 14th District.

There were 2 reported burglaries, both of which were reported within the 14th District. The two were reported in the following Beats:

• 1431 (January 7th)
• 1431 (January 1st)

Narrative: In 1 incident (1431 on January 7), it was reported that the front entrance glass to the building was broken, and cords were pulled out from their security devices. Two cash registers were taken, amounting to a potential loss of about $400-500. 4 masked offenders with gloves had run throughout the establishment. In another incident (1431 on January 1st), it was reported that offenders broke into the side garage door, stole bike tools, bike, electric saw/blades, miscellaneous tools, and a pressure washer.

Our police districts strongly recommend the implementation of motion activated lights, the installation of an alarm system, and reinforcements to one’s garage, as garages are typically easy to damage and can be used as a point of entry. The use of stronger doors or padlocks could potentially help prevent this issue from occurring. It is also recommended to keep a locked box/safe, and to lock bikes up to some part of the building’s structure using cable locks, so as to add extra steps in order to help secure items.

There were a total of 8 reported motor vehicular thefts in the following Beats:

• 1431 (January 7th)
• 1414 (January 6th)
• 1414 (January 6th)
• 1414 (January 6th)
• 1433 (January 5th)
• 1434 (January 5th)
• 1431 (January 5th)
• 1431 (January 4th)

The following is a breakdown of the vehicle make(s) that were reported:

• 3 Kia
• 2 Hyundai
• 1 Subaru
• 1 Econoline Van

There were a total of 1 reported robberies in the following Beats:

• 1424 (January 7th)

Narrative: In 1 incident, it was reported that victim had observed 8 male individuals approaching him while getting out of his vehicle and attempted to hijack him. Personal property was stolen, and 6 shell casings were recovered.

Week of January 1, 2024

Highlights from CPD's Year in Review

The Chicago Police Department brought 2023 to a close with double-digit reductions in homicides, shootings and the number of victims of gunfire, all marking the lowest levels since 2019. Overall, homicides are down 12.9% year to date. There’s a 13% drop in shooting incidents and a 17% decline in the number of shooting victims. Seventeen of the city's 22 police districts recorded fewer homicides compared to 2022, including decreases in each of the ten Districts that make up Areas Two and Three.

Throughout the year, the Department teamed up with local organizations to host eight gun turn-in events across the city, where 1,003 firearms and 221 replicas were collected, no questions asked.

The Bureau of Detectives cleared 319 homicides this year, bringing the homicide clearance rate to 51.70%. – the highest since 2019. CPD's Family Liaison Office (FLO) also offers support by working solely to connect with victims' family members and loved ones.

This April, the Vehicular Hijacking Task Force was awarded the 2023 Mayor’s Medal of Honor, honoring the work of CPD officers, the Cook County Sheriff's Office and Illinois State Police to combat carjackings. Since the start of the year, there were 1,308 vehicular hijackings, down 21% compared to 2022. Officers made 2,017 motor vehicle-related arrests, an 18.8% increase over last year. Of the 237 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 50% are juvenile offenders.

The Chicago Police Department is committed to employing applicants of different backgrounds to reflect the diversity of our City, and since January, has hired 698 recruits. Throughout the year, the Department hosted in-person exams each month at city colleges, with 228 people taking the test this past December. CPD, in collaboration with Olive-Harvey College, celebrated the first graduating class of the Pathway to Policing Program. More than 100 students have enrolled in this initiative that allows them to earn a Criminal Justice degree in one year, and then have the written portion of the Department's entrance exam waived.

CPD's December 2023 Crime Stats:

• Citywide, there were 37 murders this month, 37% lower than December 2022.

• Month to date, shooting incidents are down 18%, and there's a 25% drop in the number of victims of gunfire.

• Based on Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) figures, overall Part I crimes are down 5% compared to December 2022. Month to date, property crimes declined 9%.

• Violent crime on the CTA is down 2%, while property crimes dropped 7% and there was a 5% decline in overall transit compared to 2022.

An update on CCPSA's application and nomination process

Starting on January 8, 2024, qualified individuals will have the chance to apply for Commissioners of the CCPSA! This is an exciting opportunity to actively participate in overseeing the Chicago Police Department (CPD), the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA), and the Police Board.

To learn more about the application process and eligibility criteria, please visit the Commission's website starting January 8 through February 7, 2024.

Week of December 18, 2023

CCPSA Soon to be Hiring New Commissioners!

The District Council Nominating Committee is thrilled to announce the commencement of the selection process for the next Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA). Applications for these esteemed positions will be open from January 8, 2024 to February 7, 2024 and will be posted on the CCPSA website.

Week of December 18, 2023

Written and published December 22, 2023

Updates

There were a total of 49 crimes in the 1st Ward last week, 32 of which were nonviolent thefts.

There were 5 calls pertaining to shots fired, all of them were in the 14th District.

There were 2 reported burglaries, both of which were reported within the 14th District. The two were reported in the following Beats:

• 1433 (December 16th)
• 1424 (December 14th)

Narrative: In 1 incident (1433), it was reported that an offender had taken an e-bike from a family’s residence overnight, as they would notice its absence upon return. The offender had opened and unlocked the basement-side window, and exited the rear door of the property. In another incident (1424), it was reported that an offender had entered an apartment through the front door, and had taken Christmas gifts from the household. Entered while individuals were asleep, as there no were signs of forced entry.

There were a total of 3 reported motor vehicular thefts in the following Beats:

• 1434 (December 12th)
• 1421 (December 12th)
• 1424 (December 11th)

There were a total of 1 reported robberies in the following Beats:

• 1414 (December 14th)

Narrative: In this incident (1414), 2 victims were robbed at gunpoint as they were walking along the street. 4 males exited a sedan and displayed guns. Offenders had stolen wallet, keys, and phone from pockets. Offenders fled in grey sedan going northbound.

Week of December 11, 2023

Written and published December 20, 2023

Updates

There were a total of 49 crimes in the 1st Ward last week, 34 of which were nonviolent thefts.

There were 8 shots fired, 6 of them were in the 14th District; however, all were coded out. No rounds, casing, nor weapons were recovered.

There were a total of 3 motor vehicle thefts in the following Beats:

• 1424 (December 8th)
• 1433 (December 8th)
• 1414 (December 6th)
• 1431 (December 5th)

There was a reported attempted burglary within the following beat:

• 1433 (December 5)

Narrative: Unknown offender used crowbar to smash front glass but was unsuccessful in opening main door to entrance. Alarm rang, causing the offender to flee.

There was a reported robbery within the following beat:

• 1414 (December 8)

Narrative: Unknown offender was underneath victim’s vehicle, and as the victim was approaching his vehicle, said offender revealed a handgun. Victim ran away to safety. It was later reported that the offender took an item from the vehicle, and jumped into a grey Infiniti.

Week of December 4, 2023

Written and published December 8, 2023

Updates

There were a total of 46 crimes in the 1st Ward last week, 30 of which were nonviolent thefts.

There were 2 shots fired in the 14th District; however, both were coded out.

There were a total of 5 motor vehicle thefts in the following Beats:

• 1414 (December 2nd)
• 1421 (December 2nd)
• 1424 (November 30th)
• 1431 (November 28th)
• 1421 (November 27th)

There were a total of 4 reported burglaries, 3 of which were commercial businesses. The burglaries were in the following Beats:

• 1424 (November 30th)
• 1431 (November 30th)
• 1431 (November 30th)
• 1414 (November 30th)

Our 14th Police District has shared with us the following recommendations. In the event in which one leaves town, it is recommended to: put lights on timers, make sure all doors and windows are locked, request for the halt of mail paper service, and request the services of outdoor maintenance in order to further reinforce that one is in fact at the establishment.

Chicago Police Department: November 2023 Crime Statistics

• Citywide, there were 51 murders this month, 7% lower than November 2022. Month to date, shooting incidents are down 9.6%, and there's an 11% drop in the number of victims of gunfire.
• Overall, homicides are down 11% year to date. There’s a 12.9% drop in shooting incidents and a 16% decline in number of shooting victims. All of these figures are the lowest since 2019.
• Fifteen of the city’s 22 police districts have recorded a decline in homicides since January 1, including decreases in nine of the ten Districts that make up Areas Two and Three.
• Through November, the homicide clearance rate is 50.17%, the highest, year to date, since 2014.
• Officers recovered 900 firearms this month – an average of 30 firearms each day this November – and 11,116 firearms since the beginning of 2023. That includes the recovery of 1,163 assault weapons, a 17% increase year to date.
• Violent crime on the CTA is down 3% year to date. Overall transit crime has dropped 6% compared to this time last year.

Since the start of the year, the city has recorded 1,186 vehicular hijackings, down 22% compared to 2022. Officers have made 1,867 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 20.5% increase over this time last year. Of the 223 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 50% have been juvenile offenders.

Week of November 27, 2023

Written and published November 30, 2023

Updates

There were a total of 38 Incidents in the 1st Ward last week, 25 of which were thefts.

There was 1 reported call for shots fired; however, no further information nor additional calls were reported.

There were 4 reported robberies, all four having been reported within the 14th District. The four were reported within the following Beats:

• 1414 (November 25)
• 1424 (November 24)
• 1433 (November 24)
• 1423 (November 24)

There were 6 reported motor vehicle thefts, all six were reported within the 14th District. The following is a breakdown of the vehicle make(s) that were reported:

• 3 Kia
• 1 Hyundai
• 1 Nissan
• 1 Dodge

The six were reported within the following Beats:

• 1424 (November 22)
• 1424 (November 21)
• 1411 (November 20)
• 1424 (November 20)
• 1423 (November 20)
• 1414 (November 20)

Of the 2 reported robberies in the 1st Ward last week, we have the following information. These are the two respective Beats in question:

• 1433 (November 24)
• 1424 (November 24)

Narrative: A Black Nissan Altima License Plate Number: BM86024 (IL) is responsible for multiple robberies across the NW side, only 2 of which occurred in the 1st Ward. Individuals would display handguns demanding proceeds., point the guns at victims, then demand the victim's personal property (wallet, purses, bags, USC, cellphones).

Suspects are reporteedly 3 Male Blacks wearing dark colored clothes, wearing black ski masks, 5'11-6'00 / 180-190lbs / 18-25 years of age.

Week of November 20, 2023

Written and published November 21, 2023

Updates

There were a total of 14 crimes in the 1st Ward last week, 4 of which were nonviolent burglaries.

There were a total of 2 motor vehicle thefts in the following Beats:

• 1433 (November 15th)
• 1414 (November 17th)

There were 4 reported burglaries, all four having been reported within the 14th District. There is no evidence that the incidents are connected.

In 1 incident (1431), it was reported that a video game console, chair, and spare cash had been taken from their home. In another incident (1424), it was reported that their fence and windows were damaged when an individual attempted to enter. In another incident, it was reported that a video game console was taken from their home as well. The last incident was a massage boutique (1424), and our police have informed us that businesses of this nature have since become susceptible to being burglarized, and are requesting that business owners be vigilant of any anomalies.

There was 1 stabbing incident in Beat 1414. Reason for the perpetrator engaging in said activity is unknown. Offender has been aprehended, and charged with:

• Two (2) felony counts – Agg Battery/Great Bodily Harm
• Two (2) felony counts – Agg Battery/Use Deadly Weapon
• One (1) misdemeanor count – Agg Assault/Use Deadly Weapon
• One (1) misdemeanor count – Uuw - Weapon - Carry W/ Intent Knife

Narrative: The offender was arrested on November 16, 2023, at approximately 12:18 p.m., in the 2800 block of W. Fullerton Ave. He was identified as the offender who, minutes earlier, stabbed and injured a 19-year-old male and a 44-year old male victim on the 2800 block of W. Fullerton Ave (14th District). The offender was placed into custody and charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

Chicago Police Department Safety Tips for Holiday Activities and Shopping

• Keep your purse close to your body, preferably in front of you or under a jacket or coat.
• Be aware of where your purse is when you go to restaurants or hotel lounges. Thieves prey on purses hung over the back of a chair or left on the floor.
• If you carry a wallet, keep it in your front pants pocket or coat breast pocket.
• Always be alert and walk confidently. Be mindful of those who pass you on a crowded bus or train or bump into you on a sidewalk. These individuals may be pickpockets.
• Do not leave packages or other valuables on the car seat where they can be seen. Lock them in the trunk.
• Do not carry valuables in backpacks, which can easily be accessed in a crowded elevator, on an escalator or in a checkout line.
• Keep an eye on credit cards and the paper trail they generate to avoid becoming the victim of identity theft. To reduce the risk, people should destroy extra copies of credit card receipts. It's also best not to carry personal information in a wallet or purse. This includes a social security number, an old credit card, ATM receipts or seldom used credit cards.
• Keep pertinent information, including credit card account numbers, banking information and social security numbers, in a secured but accessible place at home. That way, in the event that a credit card is lost or stolen, the information will be handy for reporting to authorities.
• Use caution when making online purchases, especially when the vendor is an individual rather than a known retailer.

State's Attorney's Office October 2023 Report for Ward 1

Adult Felony Review & Prosecution

• In October 2023, the CCSAO reviewed and made a charging decision for 7 adult felony cases in Chicago Ward 1. 6 cases were approved resulting in an 86% approval rate. Overall, the CCSAO prosecuted 5 cases, and 4 of those cases were filed by the CCSAO, not directly filed by law enforcement. Of these CCSAO-filed adult felony cases, 3 were convicted, a 75% conviction rate. The overall cases, including law enforcement direct file cases, where the CCSAO is not making charging decisions, 4 were convicted, an 80% conviction rate.

Adult Felony Diversion

• In October 2023, the CCSAO referred 1 defendant in Chicago Ward 1 to a diversion program. 0 defendants graduated from their diversion program and 0 defendants failed their diversion program.

Incidents & Arrests

• In October 2023, CPD received 427 criminal incident reports from Chicago Ward 1 and 26 incidents resulted in at least one offender being arrested. The overall arrest rate is 6%. In total, 33 offenders were arrested.

If you would like to review the full data, please click here.

14th District Community Commitee Meeting

The next community committee meeting for public safety and policing initiatives will be held Saturday December 2nd at 12pm. The meeting will be held at the Chicago Public Library Humboldt Park Branch: 1605 N Troy Street. The regular 14th District Council Meeting will follow at 1:00pm.

Week of November 6, 2023

Highlights from CPD's October Media Release

This October, Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling and fellow Command Staff discussed the 2024 projected budget with City Council members. During the Committee on Budget and Government Operations hearing, CPD spoke about how the budget will help move the Department forward in areas that include technology, accountability, reform and supervision. It will also transition vacant police officer positions into sworn promotional opportunities and create 400 civilian positions that will bring specialized experience to CPD.

The Chicago Police Department is also looking toward the future by remaining committed to hiring applicants that reflect the diversity of this city. Already this year, the Department has hired 598 recruits. Entry exams continued at several City College locations this month, with 207 applicants taking the test. There will be additional entrance exam opportunities through the end of the year, and more information is available here.

Citywide, there were 52 murders this month, 18.75% lower than October 2022. Month to date, shooting incidents are down 18.95%, and there's a 7.8% drop in the number of victims of gunfire.

Overall, homicides are down 11.8% year to date. There’s a 13% drop in shooting incidents and a 16.5% decline in number of shooting victims. All of these figures are the lowest since 2019. Fourteen of the city’s 22 police districts have recorded a decline in homicides since January 1.

Through October, the homicide clearance rate is 49.04%, the highest, year to date, since 2014.

Officers recovered 836 firearms this month and 10,193 firearms since the beginning of 2023. That includes the recovery of 1,071 assault weapons, an 18% increase year to date.

On the CTA, violent crime is down 7% year to date and there's a 9% drop in overall transit crime compared to this time last year.

Since the start of the year, the city has recorded 1,094 vehicular hijackings, down 21.9% compared to 2022. Officers have made 1,691 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 23% increase over this time last year. Of the 204 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 50% have been juvenile offenders.

CCPSA Next Public Monthly Meeting

On Monday, November 13, 2023 at 6:30pm, the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability will hold their monthly public meeting at Kennedy-King College (6301 W. Halsted Street Chicago, IL 60621).

Agenda Items include:

• A vote on CPD's Amendment to Policy G08-03 "Prohibitions on Criminal and Biased Based Organizations.

  • To view their recent webinar on the Associations policy, click here.

• Officer Wellness Hearing with panelists:

  • Commission President, Anthony Driver
  • 19th Ward Alderman, Matt O'Shea
  • Chicago Police Department
  • Alexa James, Chief Officer at NAMI Chicago
  • Jo MacArthur, Former Assistant Chief, Los Angeles Police Department
  • Testimony by Erin Ross

For those who are unable to attend the meeting in person, you also have the opportunity to join virtually via Zoom. If you wish to speak during the virtual public comment period, kindly request to do so by reaching out to Community Commission staff at CommunityCommissionPublicComment@cityofchicago.org. In the event that there are more interested speakers than the allotted time permits, speakers will be selected through a random drawing process.

Written public comments are also welcome and can be submitted in person during the meeting or sent to CommunityCommissionPublicComment@cityofchicago.org.

Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office (CCSAO) September 2023 Report Chicago Ward 1

Below is a memo with data on the following during September 2023:

1. The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office’s (CCSAO) charging decisions, guilty convictions, and diversion referrals for adult felony cases in your ward and Chicago.
2. The Chicago Police Department’s criminal incident reports and arrests in your ward and Chicago.

The data from September 2023 shows that when a charging decision was made, the CCSAO approved charges for adult felony arrests in Chicago at a rate of 84 percent.

Open, transparent data, like the attached, creates a common understanding so that we can better collectively work to reduce crime in Chicago and Cook County.

We should note that the CCSAO only becomes involved when law enforcement presents us with a case.

Adult Felony Review & Prosecution

In September 2023, the CCSAO reviewed and made a charging decision for 11 adult felony cases in Chicago Ward 1. 10 cases were approved resulting in a 91% approval rate. Overall, the CCSAO prosecuted 8 cases, and 6 of those cases were filed by the CCSAO, not directly filed by law enforcement. Of these CCSAO-filed adult felony cases, 5 were convicted, an 83% conviction rate. The overall cases, including law enforcement direct file cases, where the CCSAO is not making charging decisions, 5 were convicted, a 63% conviction rate.

Adult Felony Diversion

In September 2023, the CCSAO referred 3 defendants in Chicago Ward 1 to a diversion program. 1 defendant graduated from their diversion program and 0 defendants failed their diversion program. The overall graduation rate is 100%.

Incidents and Arrests

In September 2023, CPD received 394 criminal incident reports from Chicago Ward 1 and 23 incidents resulted in at least one offender being arrested. The overall arrest rate is 6%. In total, 24 offenders were arrested.

For more information and to view data, please see full report here.

Week of October 31, 2023

Free Hyundai Vehicle Safety Event!

The Chicago Police Department, in partnership with Hyundai, will be providing free anti-theft software updates on Nov. 3-5th. All owners of Hyundai vehicles are encouraged to attend to help deter theft, as we are seeing an incredibly high number of specifically Hyundai thefts in the city this year.

Business Alert

Commercial Burglary About the Crime: This alert gives notice to the 018th, 001st, 012th and 014th District businesses of recently reported commercial burglaries. In each incident, multiple offenders forcibly enter businesses by ramming store fronts with motor vehicles to gain access. Offenders will then enter and ransack the business removing merchandise before fleeing in waiting vehicles. These incidents are occurring in Beats 1831, 1833, 0131, 1213 and 1433.

Incident times and locations:

• 700 block of North Franklin St, Tuesday October 24, 2023 in the morning hours.
• 2200 block of West Taylor St, Wednesday October 25, 2023 in the morning hours.
• 900 block of North Michigan Ave, Wednesday October 25, 2023 in the morning hours.
• 1800 block of South State St, Thursday October 26, 2023 in the morning hours.
• 1100 block of North Ashland Ave, Thursday October 26, 2023 in the morning hours. (1st Ward)
• 1300 block of North Milwaukee Ave, Saturday October 28, 2023 in the morning hours. (1st Ward)
• 1500 block of North Milwaukee Ave, Tuesday October 31, 2023 in the morning hours. (1st Ward)

About the Offenders: (2-6) Male African Americans and (1) Female African American wearing face masks and dark clothing

What you can do:

• Keep doors locked and windows secure.
• Immediately repair broken windows, doors, or locks.
• If video surveillance is available, save and make a copy of the incident for investigating Detectives.
• If you are a victim, do not touch anything and contact the police immediately.
• Keep a record of motor vehicle information.
• Call 911 immediately and provide a detailed description of any suspicious people including any vehicle description and license plate information.

If you have any information, contact Bureau of Detectives – Area 3 (312) 744-8263

CCPSA: Apply for the Police Board!

Are you passionate about ensuring accountability in our police force? Your opportunity to make a difference is here. The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) is accepting applications to fill two vacancies on the Police Board, an independent civilian body responsible for deciding disciplinary cases involving Chicago Police officers.

The Chicago Police is a vital component of our city’s police accountability framework, and we’re in search of accomplished attorneys with a minimum of 10 years of practice, coupled with a proven history of community service. To maintain impartiality, applicants should not have been employed by any of the following entities in the last 5 years: Chicago Police Department, COPA, Chicago Department of Law, Chicago Mayor’s Office, or the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office.

A term on the Police Board spans five years, requiring members to commit on average of 35 hours per month. In recognition of your service, each Police Board member receives a monthly stipend of $1000.

If you are interested in being considered for the Police Board, please submit the following to PoliceBoardNominations@cityofchicago.org: 

• Cover Letter
• Resume 
• List of Five References 
• Click here for a Completed Eligibility Form 
• Click here for a Completed Conflict-of-Interest Form 

For additional information, please visit our website at: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/ccpsa/supp_info/serving-on-the-police-board.html 

Please consider applying to the Chicago Police Board!

Week of October 23, 2023

Written and published on October 26, 2023

Webinar on CPD's Directive on Associations with Criminal and Biased Organizations on 10/30

In accordance with City Ordinance, the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) holds the responsibility of drafting, reviewing, and approving proposed or amended policies of the Chicago Police Department.

CCPSA is extending an invitation to all residents to participate in a 'Lunch and Learn' webinar, focusing on the recently revised CPD policy, "G08-03 Prohibitions on Criminal and Biased Organizations." This webinar will be conducted on Monday, October 30, 2023 at 12pm via Zoom.

The revised Chicago Police Department directive clearly defines “criminal organizations” and what it means to associate with a criminal organization. This includes making it clear that police officers cannot associate with members of hate and terrorist groups. This also includes making it clear what types of activities count as associations.

The Commission is actively seeking feedback and questions from community members pertaining to the policy. Both the Chicago Police Department and the Commission have been diligently working on the revision of this policy and value community input. You can either join the webinar to learn more about the policy on Monday, October 30, 2023 at 12pm, or share your thoughts through their community feedback survey.

Charge Release

A male juvenile offender was arrested by members of the Chicago Police Department on October 24, 2023, at approximately 11:27 a.m. in the 1500 block of S. Christiana Ave. He was identified as one of the offenders who committed multiple armed robbery-related incidents that occurred an hour earlier on October 24, 2023.

• 2300 block of N. Maplewood Ave. (14th District); Took Property at gunpoint from a 66-year-old male victim. (1st Ward)
• 3800 block of W. Belmont Ave. (17th District); Took property at gunpoint from a 51-year-old male victim and another adult male.
• 2300 block of N. Western Ave. (14th District); Took property at gunpoint from a 42-year-old female victim. (1st Ward)
• 200 block of N. Maplewood Ave. (12th District); Took property at gunpoint from a 62-year-old male and a 70-year-old female victim.

The offender was placed into custody and subsequently charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

Community Alert

This alert gives notice to the residents of the 014th and 025th Districts of a pattern of armed robberies. The offenders, driving stolen or hijacked vehicles, drive up to victims who are on foot or in their own vehicles. Multiple offenders exit the vehicle, armed with handguns, and demand the victim's property. In more than one incident, victims were injured by the offenders.

Incident Dates and Locations:

• 1700 block of W Wabansia Ave on October 21, 2023 at 9:20pm
• 1600 block of N Leavitt St on October 21, 2023 at 9:22pm
• 1500 block of N Artesian Ave on October 21, 2023 at 9:30pm (1st Ward)
• 1600 block of N Wolcott Ave on October 21, 2023 at 11:33pm
• 3500 block of N W Pierce Ave on October 21, 2023 at 11:55pm
• 3300 block of W Beach Ave on October 21, 2023 at 11:58pm
• 4800 block of W Potomac Ave on October 22, 2023 at 1:33am
• 5000 block of W Palmer on October 22, 2023 at 1:48am
• 5000 block of W Palmer on October 22, 2023 at 1:48am

About the Offenders: Between 2-5 males, African-American, wearing all black clothing, black masks all armed with handguns

What you can do:

• Note any unique physical characteristics (scars, limp, acne, teeth, etc...)
• Never pursue a fleeing assailant, provide the information to the police
• Never resist a robbery. Value your life over any and all property.
• If approached by a witness to the incident, request contact information
• Dial 9-1-1 immediately and remain on scene when possible
• Do not touch anything until police arrive.

If you have any information, contact Area Five Detectives at 312-746-7394

Community Alert

This alert gives notice to the residents of the 014th, 016th and 025th Districts that there have been several Armed Robberies. The offenders approach the victim while they are walking on the sidewalk. They then threaten the victim with handguns and demand their property. The offenders then flee in the below described vehicle.

Incident times and locations:

• 1300 block of North Wood St. on October 22, 2023 at 3:37 pm (1st Ward)
• 2800 block of North Richmond Ave. on October 22, 2023 at 4:00 pm (1st Ward adjacent)
• 3200 block of North Linder Ave. on October 22, 2023 at 4:21 pm
• 4400 block of West North St. on October 22, 2023 at 4:00 pm
• 1600 block of North Honore Ave. October 22, 2023 at 5:44 pm (1st Ward adjacent)
• 3000 block of West Schubert St. October 22, 2023 at 5:55 pm (1st Ward)
• 3200 block of West George St. October 22, 2023 at 5:56 pm
• 1500 block of North Bell Ave. October 22, 2023 at 8:30 pm (1st Ward)

About the Offenders: Three males, African-American, wearing dark clothing, black face masks and armed with handguns. Driving a red four door sedan.

What you can do:

• Be aware of this crime and alert your neighbors.
• Install surveillance cameras and ensure that they are functioning and recording.
• Pay special attention to any suspicious people or vehicles loitering in the area.
• Call 911 immediately and provide a detailed description of the offender(s) including any vehicle description and license plate information.

If you have any information, Contact the Bureau of Detectives – Area Five

Community Alert

About the Crime: This alert gives notice to residents in the 014th & 025th Districts of recent armed robberies during late night hours on the street or sidewalk. The Offenders exit a Black Jeep Laredo Lic #DH53240 (IL), display handguns demanding proceeds., point the guns at victims, then demand the victim's personal property (Wallet, USC, cellphones). During said incident, one of the offenders pistol-whipped the victim. Offenders tell victims "give it up" or "give me the money" before taking said items.

Incident time and location:

• 1900 North Block of Whipple St on October 24, 2023 @ 11:09PM (1st Ward adjacent)
• 3000 North Block of Karlov Ave on October 24, 2023 @ 11:10PM
• 3100 North Block of Hamlin Ave on October 24, 2023 @ 11:13PM
• 2100 North Block of Whipple St on October 24, 2023 @ 11:17PM (1st Ward)
• 1900 North Block of Oakley Ave on October 24, 2023 @ 11:30PM (1st Ward adjacent)

Offender Description: 3 Male African Americans wearing dark colored clothes, wearing black ski masks, /5'11-6'00/ 180-190lbs 18-25 years of age

What you can do:

• Be aware of your surroundings and unfamiliar or suspicious people in your area.
• Walk with groups of individuals and do not carry large sums of money.
• Do not try to rationalize or confront offenders, it could lead to possible injury
• Park in well-lit areas and in areas where there is pedestrian and vehicular traffic
• Notify neighbors of this crime pattern. If you see something suspicious, alert police immediately.
• Call 911 immediately if you are a victim or witness to a crime and provide a detailed description of the offender(s) and involved vehicles.

Week of October 16, 2023

Written and published October 17, 2023

14th District Coffee with the Commander

The 14th District Community Policing Office invites everyone to come out to meet Commander Melinda Linas and have a cup of coffee with her on Wednesday, October 18th at Dunkin Donuts (2808 N. Western Ave) from 11:00 am - Noon. Attend the event to speak directly with Commander Linas and the 14th District!

Upcoming 14th District Council Meetings

The CCPSA meeting for the Community Committee for Alternative Responses and Solutions will be held on Monday, Oct. 23rd, at 6pm at the Humboldt Park Library. (As of this writing, the 14th District Council is awaiting confirmation on the location)

The next 14th District Council meeting will be Saturday, Nov 4th at 1pm at the Logan Library, 3030 West Fullerton! The District Council will be voting to recommend changes to CPDs pretextual traffic stop practice, suggested by Impact for Equity researching policy attorneys, to be implemented by the citywide Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability.

NW Side Liquor Store Business Alert

This alert gives notice to businesses within the 014th, 016th and 017th Districts of recent armed robberies to liquor store establishments. The offenders entered said liquor store businesses, pointed black handguns with extended magazines at victims, and then demanded that victims get on the ground. The offenders then proceeded to take their valuables and personal belongings. In some instances, the offenders have struck the victim with their handgun. The offenders then took money from the cash registers and safes from said establishments. Offenders then fled on foot into a waiting Black Alpha Romeo vehicle.

Incident times and locations:

• 3700 block of West Montrose Ave, on October 6, 2023 at 9:32 p.m.
• 4600 block of North Kedzie Ave., on October 11, 2023 at 9:45 p.m.
• 2700 block of West Division St on October 11, 2023 at 09:48 p.m.
• 2500 block of West North Ave on October 11, 2023 at 10:10 p.m. (1st Ward)
• 2700 block of West North Ave, on October 11, 2023 at 10:26 p.m.
• 2400 block of West Diversey Ave, on October 11, 2023 at 10:43 p.m.
• 3100 block of West Lawrence Ave, on October 14, 2023 at 8:45 p.m.
• 4800 block of North Central Ave, on October 14, 2023 at 9:28 p.m
• 4700 block of West Belmont Ave, on October 14, 2023 at 9:45 p.m
• 6200 block of West Belmont Ave, on October 14, 2023 at 10:00 p.m.
• 3000 block of West Fullerton Ave, on October 14, 2023 at 10:45 p.m. (1st Ward-adjacent)

Offender Description:

2-3 African American males, 20-25 years of age, black ski masks, black sweatpants, black hoodies, 5'03-6'02, 160-180 lbs., slim build, and armed with handguns and wearing white gloves. The offenders are seen fleeing on foot and then getting into a Black Alpha Romeo with tinted windows and unknown registration.

What you can do:

• Be aware of this crime and alert nearby businesses.
• Do not attempt to reason with or stall the demands of these offenders.
• Pay special attention to any suspicious individuals loitering in the area.
• Ensure that existing surveillance cameras are functional and recording.
• Call 911 immediately and provide a detailed description of the offender(s) including any vehicle description and license plate information

If you have any information, please contact the Bureau of Detectives – Area 5 at (312) 746-7394

Next CCPSA Public Meeting on October 26th

The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability is holding their October public meeting on Thursday October 26, 2023 at 6:30pm, located at Malcolm X College (1900 W. Jackson Blvd, Chicago, lL 60612).

If you would like to attend the meeting remotely by participating via Zoom, click here.

The agenda for this meeting will be made available electronically on the Community Commission’s website: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/ccpsa.html

The Commission will provide an opportunity for public comment. Each person participating in public comment will have up to two minutes to speak. A total of twenty minutes will be dedicated to public comment. Anyone interested in speaking during the public comment period must write their name on a card provided at the meeting, and give it to Community Commission staff in the meeting room any time between 6:00-6:30pm on the day of the meeting. If the number of interested speakers would exceed the time dedicated to public comment, speakers will be selected by a random drawing.

Anyone interested in speaking during the virtual public comment period must send a request to Community Commission staff by emailing Nicole.Garcia@cityofchicago.org. If the number of interested speakers would exceed the time dedicated to public comment, speakers will be selected by a random drawing.

Week of October 2, 2023

Written and published October 6, 2023

Highlights from CPD's September Media Release

This month, Larry Snelling was sworn in as the 64th Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. Superintendent Snelling has three decades of experience within the Department, most recently serving as the Chief of the Bureau of Counterterrorism. As he leads the city's public safety and violence reduction efforts, his top priorities include building community trust and officer wellness.

Since January, the Department has hired 523 recruits. Another round of entry exams was also held this month at several City College locations, with 240 applicants taking the test. Additional entrance exam opportunities continue through the rest of the year, and more information is available here.

• Citywide, there were 45 murders this month, 37.5% lower than September 2022. Month to date, shooting incidents are down 19.5%, and there's a 26.8% drop in the number of victims of gunfire. All of these figures are the lowest since 2019.

• Overall, homicides are down 11.7% year to date. There’s a 12.5% drop in shooting incidents and a 17% decline in number of shooting victims. Fourteen of the city’s 22 police districts have recorded a decline in homicides since January 1.

• Through September, the homicide clearance rate is 49.79%, the highest, year to date, since 2014.

• Officers recovered 928 firearms this month and 9,353 firearms since the beginning of 2023. That includes the recovery of 967 assault weapons, an 18.7% increase year to date.

• Violent crime on the CTA, while up 11% month to date, is down 9% year to date. Overall transit crime is down 12% year to date, as well as a 12% drop compared to September 2022.

• Since the start of the year, the city has recorded 955 vehicular hijackings, down 24.9% compared to 2022. Officers have made 1,503 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 29.5% increase over this time last year. Of the 179 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 54% have been juvenile offenders.

Updates

A male juvenile offender was arrested by members of the Chicago Police Department on October 2, 2023, in the 3500 block of W. Douglas Blvd. He was identified as one of the offenders who, on September 23, 2023 at approximately 4:24 a.m. took property at gunpoint from a 31-year-old male victim in the 1600 block of W. North Ave. (14th District). The offender was placed into custody and charged accordingly. No further information is available at this time.

Updates from the Community Commission on Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA)

New Interactive Yearly Calendar: CCPSA is proud to introduce their new and improved interactive calendar, accessible through their website. One of the key features of the calendar is the inclusion of the yearly meeting calendar for both the Commission and District Councils. By simply visiting our website, you can find the dates, times, and locations of all scheduled meetings.

District Council's Nominating Committee: The District Council's Nominating Committee has already begun its work. Comprised of one member from each District Council, this 22-member Committee plays a pivotal role in shaping the leadership of the permanent Commission. The Nominating Committee will have an open application process for those interested in serving on the Commission. Anyone meeting the qualifications outlined is welcome to apply for a Commission role. Commission applications will be posted on January 8, 2024. To learn more about the Nominating Committee, including information about its public meetings, please click here.

How You Get Involved: Your voice matters, and you can take an active role in the Commission's nomination process. By attending a District Council meeting or filling out this survey, you can provide valuable feedback to Nominators, that will help inform the Commission’s selection process. Your insights, suggestions, and ideas are essential in ensuring that our leadership represents our diverse and dynamic city.

Week of September 25, 2023

Updates

A male juvenile offender was arrested on September 26, 2023, in the 3400 block of W. Fulton Blvd. He was identified as one of the offenders who, on September 23, 2023, at approximately 8:00 p.m., participated in taking property at gunpoint from a 25-year-old male in the in the 1700 block of N. Maplewood Ave. (14th District). He is also charged in connection to the armed robbery of a 24-year-old male that occurred minutes earlier on September 23, 2023, in the 1700 N. Rockwell St (14th District). The offender was placed into custody and charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

Week of September 18, 2023

Written and published September 22, 2023

NORTHWEST SIDE PUBLIC SAFETY TOWN HALL

The 1st Ward office, along with other elected officials of the Northwest Side, are hosting a Public Safety Town Hall together next Monday, September 25th at 5:30pm. At the meeting will be violence prevention partners to discuss the work they're doing to curb youth violence, elected officials to discuss policy-level implementations to address violence, and CPD to discuss community involvement in preventing crime. If you have any questions you would like answered at the meeting, please pre-register here and type in your question! We look forward to seeing you at the event!

Week of September 4, 2023

Written and published September 12, 2023

Highlights from CPD's August Media Release

This August, the Chicago Police Department's newest leader was named, as Mayor Brandon Johnson selected Chief Larry Snelling to be the next Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. He will take over in September from Interim Superintendent Fred L. Waller, who rejoined the Department and led the CPD this summer. Chief Snelling brings 29 years of service, and his experience includes redesigning the Department’s current force training model around national best practices and constitutional policing. Chief Snelling will lead CPD as we continue building community trust, strengthening officer wellness and making our communities safer.

So far this year, CPD has hired 474 recruits. Another round of entry exams was held this month at several City College locations, with 152 applicants taking the test. Additional entrance exam opportunities will be available throughout the rest of the year, and more information is available here.

Overall, there’s an 11% drop in shooting incidents and a 15% decline in number of shooting victims across the city year to date. Eleven of the city’s 22 police districts have recorded a decline in homicides since January 1.

The homicide clearance rate is 50.48%, the highest, year to date, since 2014.

Officers recovered 1,116 firearms this month and 8,398 firearms since the beginning of 2023. That includes the recovery of 836 assault weapons, a 15.9% increase year to date.

Violent crime on the CTA is down 16% month to date and 13% year to date, while overall transit crime is down 12% year to date and there's a 35% drop compared to August 2022.

Since the start of the year, the city has recorded 835 vehicular hijackings, down 26% compared to 2022. Officers have made 1,312 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 34% increase over this time last year. Of the 148 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 55% have been juvenile offenders.

Updates

3 juvenile offenders were arrested on September 2, 2023, at approximately 3:20 p.m. in the 1100 block of S. Park Terrance, 1000 block of S. Plymouth Ct, and 1100 block of S. Clark St., respectively. They were identified as the offenders who committed multiple armed robbery-related incidents that occurred hours earlier, one of which was in the 1st Ward. The offenders were placed into custody and charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

Motor Vehicle Thefts

The City of Chicago has filed a civil lawsuit against Kia America, Inc., Kia Corporation, Hyundai Motor America and Hyundai Motor Company for their failure to include industry-standard engine immobilizers in the multiple modes of their vehicles, resulting in a steep rise in vehicle thefts, reckless driving, property damage and a wide array of crimes in Chicago.

Filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, alleges that Kia and Hyundai failed to equip their U.S. cars, sold between 2011 and 2022, with vital anti-theft technology. The Complaint alleges that Kia and Hyundai deceptively assured consumers that these vehicles possessed “advanced” safety features, despite knowing about this critical defect and its consequences. To learn more about the complete details of the City's lawsuit click the link Lawsuit Against Kia and Hyundai.

Chicagoans are welcomed to share with the City about their experience with Kia and Hyundai related to their failure to install immobilizers and resulting thefts, they can do so by emailing consumerprotection@cityofchicago.org.

Week of August 28, 2023

Updates

2 juvenile offenders were arrested on August 28, 2023, at approximately 9:40 p.m., in the 300 block of N. Western Ave. They were identified as two of the offenders who, less than 30 minutes earlier, took property at gunpoint from a 36- year-old female in the 1600 block of N. Rockwell St. (14th District). The offenders are also charged in connection to the armed robbery of a 51-year-old female that occurred minutes later in the 2000 block of N. Mozart St (14th District). Responding officers quickly located the offenders and a weapon was recovered on scene. The offenders were placed into custody and charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

14th District Council Meeting

Join the 14th District Council on Saturday, September 2nd for their monthly public meeting featuring the Safe Streets Director from ALSO to speak on their successful restorative justice strategies for violence prevention. The meeting will be held at the Humboldt Park Library, 1605 N Troy, from 1-2:30pm.

Please also see the below event in close collaboration with the 12th District Council, as well as the 25th, 11th, 10th, 15th and 17th DC's. The second in our Know Your Rights series will be held in Humboldt Park on Sat Sept 30th from 12-3pm, featuring Spanish presentation and question answering from Public Defender Iveliz Orellano, with English presentation by First Defense Legal Aid. Free vegan and meat chili will be provided, with opportunities for other groups to connect and table, and for community members to bring potluck items to share. This event will be held in the north end of the park, with backup indoor locations to account for weather.

Week of August 21, 2023

Updates

A male offender was arrested on August 22, 2023, in the 2600 block of S. California Ave. He was identified as one of the offenders who, on July 22, 2022, took a vehicle and other personal property by force from a 27-year-old male in the 1400 block of W. Huron St. (12th District). The offender was placed into custody and charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

Week of August 14, 2023

Updates

A male juvenile offender was arrested by members of the Chicago Police Department on August 13, 2023, in the 2600 block of W. Altgeld St. He was identified as the offender who, on August 13, 2023, entered a retail establishment in the 2400 block of N. Milwaukee Ave (14th District) and took merchandise from the retail establishment at gunpoint. The offender was placed into custody and charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

Illinois State Police's New Technology Centers

Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Zone 1 is opening two new ISP Technology Centers, one in Des Plaines and another in Lockport, to help solve crimes committed on Chicago areas expressways and in local communities. The centers are designed with state-of-the-art technology and software to process and quickly analyze digital evidence in real time.

Said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly, “The new ISP Technology Centers are equipped with the latest technology allowing ISP to increase the clearance rate for violent crimes and aid in narcotics, public integrity, internet crimes against children, and human trafficking investigations.”

Already in August, the DCI Zone 1 clearance rate for homicides in 2023 is 80%. The new ISP Technology Centers are another facet of ISP’s approach in reducing expressway violence, including increased patrols, strategic violent crime reduction missions, automated license plate readers, and Air Operations. The ISP Technology Centers have newly installed technology and software designed to improve the processing and analytics of digital evidence, including raw video footage, cellphone extractions, and search warrant returns. The foundation of the centers are the enhanced workstations, which are better suited to process and review large media files.

Special Edition: Public Safety Newsletter (August 9, 2023)

Dear Neighbors,

The shocking and frustrating violent crime of recent weeks compels my office and myself to directly address the public safety crises we’re experiencing, particularly as it relates to robberies. As we noted last Friday, while year to date shootings are down 73% in the ward (2022: 15; 2023: 4), carjackings down 73% as well (2022: 37; 2023: 10), and homicides down 100% (2022: 4; 2023: 0), robberies are up 95% (2022: 103; 2023: 201). A majority of these are since July 1st alone, with 105 robberies since that date. It does no one any good to sugarcoat this present reality; it is frustrating, angering, and wholly unacceptable. I’m taking this moment to acknowledge the strategies that have been effective in the past and present, how are police districts are responding, and what our next steps are.

Current Strategies and Investments:

I would first like to acknowledge the great work that the new Vehicular Hijacking Task Force is doing in decreasing carjackings across the city. The significant decline in carjacking incidents noticeably correlates to the implementation of this new Task Force at the beginning of 2023; year to date, carjackings throughout the city are down 25.1% compared to 2022 and down 73.7% in our Ward. In the past 28 days, that number is even better, at a decrease of 75%. I’d like to commend our teams who are not only responding to these crimes in progress but also committing to the investigations to ensure these offenders are brought to justice.

On the preventative side of crime, my office works very closely with violence prevention partners such as the Alliance of Local Service Organizations (ALSO), workforce training programs like READI, and mental health partners such as Healthcare Alternative Systems (HAS). These types of programs provide solutions to the root causes of crime such as housing instability, lack of resources or opportunities, and mental illnesses. The work that these partners do to prevent violence from occurring in the first place is paramount to our Ward’s public safety, as it means fewer incidents in general for our officers to respond to and more resources for our officers when they do have to respond to a violent crime in progress.

We have also used policy and infrastructure investments to deter violent crime and instability. Examples include enhanced streetlighting on Milwaukee Ave; overnight parking bans on Milwaukee Ave and Division Street; and the placement of new pod cameras and license plate readers throughout the ward. This has been supplemented by an entertainment corridor detail serving corridors in Wicker Park, Logan Square, and West Town. Collectively, we have seen significant impacts from these investments, particularly in the Wicker Park beat of 1424 (shootings down 66%, robberies down 27%, carjackings down 100%). These investments are borne out of collaboration between our office, local businesses, our police districts, and relevant non-profit partners.

Scope of Robberies and Strategic Action Moving Forward

The most disheartening and distressing issue that my office faces currently are the widespread armed robberies across the Ward and the Northwest side as a whole. I speak every week with our 14th District leadership to discuss every crime statistic that has occurred over the previous week, and the spike in robberies we’ve seen over the past month is alarming. In the majority of these robbery sprees, the incidents all occur within a few minutes of each other and are conducted by a single team between the hours of 10pm and 6am. I have spoken with our 14th District Commander regarding the best way to address these incidents, and they are working on a plan together with several other Northwest Side Districts and Area Detectives to combat these robberies and apprehend the offenders, similar to the above Vehicular Hijacking Task Force model. It is our intention that not only will this team have increased ability to respond to these crimes, but they will also prevent further incidents due to the apprehension of repeat offenders.

Next Steps

As our 14th District Commander, Elizabeth Collazo, has recently been promoted to a new position outside the district and is onboarding her replacement. In the near future, we will be coordinating a public meeting with our CAPS Sergeant Mike Edens to introduce new leadership; we will share reasonable information on the strategies being deployed, and take your questions to the extent possible. We will endeavor to coordinate a similar meeting for our 12th district residents, potentially coordinating with adjacent wards. I have also asked our police districts to provide locations for new pod cameras and license plate readers that can be funded through the city’s capital budget (this is no longer an aldermanic menu money item).

I am deeply committed to public safety in our Ward, and believe using both a holistic approach - grounded in infrastructure, policy, and wrap-around services, as well as policing - is the best way to achieve a safe, secure environment for all 1st Ward residents. I will continue to discuss crime statistics with our Districts and work collaboratively on any requests they have from our office to support them in their endeavors to create a safer neighborhood, whether it be through additional POD cameras, lighting, or other resources. I encourage residents to attend their local BEAT meetings to speak with officers directly about any public safety concerns they may have and any potential improvements they can make on their end for increasing the safety in their own neighborhoods. Through the cooperation of our residents, our partners, our police officers, our district councils, and policy initiatives, we can create a safe 1st Ward for all.

Finally, I would like to officially send a warm farewell to Commander Collazo at the 14th District. She has been an absolute pleasure to work with and while my office will undoubtedly miss working in collaboration with such great leadership, I am looking forward to furthering the great relationship we have with the 14th District under their new Commander.

Week of August 7, 2023

Highlights from CPD's July Media Release

The Department hosted another round of in-person entry exams at several City Colleges this month, and 177 applicants took the test. Additional entrance exam opportunities will still be available throughout the second half of the year, and more information is available here.

Citywide, there were 59 murders this month, 11.9% lower than July 2022. Month to date, shooting incidents are down 18.5%

Overall, homicides are down 6% year to date, and there’s a 9% decline in shooting incidents. Nine of the city’s 22 police districts have recorded a decline in homicides since January 1.

The homicide clearance rate is 52.49%, the highest, year to date since 2015.

Officers recovered 1,165 firearms this month and 7,255 firearms since the beginning of 2023. That includes the recovery of 686 assault weapons, an 11% increase year to date.

Violent crime on the CTA is down 21% month to date and 13% year to date, while overall transit crime is down 9% year to date and 21% compared to July 2022.

Since the start of the year, the city has recorded 707 vehicular hijackings, down 26.7% compared to 2022. Officers have made 1,167 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 44% increase over this time last year. Of the 126 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 60% have been juvenile offenders.

Next 12th District Council Meeting

The August Public Meeting for the 12th District Council will be held Wednesday, August 16th at 6:30pm at Union Park (1501 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60606). Learn about how our communities can work together to achieve police accountability and community safety in the 12th District, and participate in the process!

Commununity Alerts

This alert gives notice to the residents of the 014th and 025th Districts of a pattern of armed robberies. The offenders, driving a dark colored sedan, drive up to victims who are on foot. Two or three male offenders exit the vehicle, armed with handguns, and demand the victim's property. In more than one incident, victims were injured by the offenders.

Incident Dates and Locations:

• 3900 block of W George on August 5, 2023 at 6:40pm
• 2300 block of N Western Ave on August 5, 2023 at 6:50pm (1st Ward)
• 2500 block of N Richmond St on August 5, 2023 at 6:50pm (1st Ward)
• 2600 block of N Hamlin Ave on August 5, 2023 at 7:30pm
• 1700 block of N Keystone on August 6, 2023 at 5:30am
• 4000 block of W Armitage Ave on August 6, 2023 at 5:31am
• 1300 block of N Moorman St on August 6, 2023 at 10:50am
• 2900 block of N Albany Ave on August 6, 2023 at 11:00am
• 2500 block of N Rockwell St on August 6, 2023 at 11:05am (1st Ward)
• 2800 block of W Diversey Ave on August 6, 2023 at 11:15am
• 4300 block of W Schubert Ave on August 6, 2023 at 11:40am
• 4300 block of W Schubert Ave on August 6, 2023 at 11:40am
• 3200 block of W Fullerton Ave on August 6, 2023 at 11:50am
• 2100 block of N Spaulding Ave on August 6, 2023 at 11:50am
• 1800 block of N Spaulding Ave on August 6, 2023 at 11:50am
• 3600 block of W Potomac Ave on August 6, 2023 at 12:00pm
• 2400 block of N Spaulding Ave on August 6, 2023 at 12:05pm
• 1600 block of N Drake Ave on August 6, 2023 at 12:05pm
• 1400 block of N Cicero Ave on August 6, 2023 at 12:10pm
• 1700 block of N Artesian Ave on August 5, 2023 at 12:20am (1st Ward)
• 1600 block of N Cicero Ave on August 5, 2023 at 12:40am
• 1600 block of N Keeler Ave on August 5, 2023 at 12:55am
• 1300 block of N Oakley Blvd on August 5, 2023 at 1:00am (1st Ward)
• 1200 block of N Harding Ave on August 5, 2023 at 1:20am
• 4400 block of W Diversey Ave on August 5,2023 at 1:23am

About the Offender:

• Multiple (between 2-4) male black subjects wearing all black clothing, ski masks
• Driving stolen Kia or Hyundai vehicles, reportedly white, beige, and gray in color

What you can do: Note any unique physical characteristics (scars, limp, acne, teeth, etc...)

This alert gives notice to residents of the 12th and 14th districts of recent Armed Robberies. In these incidents, the unknown offenders arrived in a Silver Audi. The offenders exited the vehicle, displayed handguns, and demanded the victim's belongings. After obtaining the victim's belongings the offenders fled the scene.

Incident times and locations:

• 2000 block of West Superior St. on August 8, 2023 at 1 a.m.
• 1100 block of West Chicago Ave. on August 8, 2023 at 1a.m.
• 1900 block of West Chicago Ave. on August 8, 2023 at 1:05 a.m.
• 3000 block of West Armitage Ave. on August 8, 2023 at 1:45 a.m. (1st Ward)
• 3000 block of West Armitage Ave. on August 8, 2023 at 1:58 a.m. (1st Ward)
• 1500 block of North Milwaukee Ave. on August 8, 2023 at 2:30 a.m. (1st Ward)

About the Offender: (4) Males wearing ski masks

Hit & Run

Major Accident Investigators are seeking information on the below-pictured vehicle wanted for leaving the scene of a serious personal injury hit-and-run traffic crash in the 12th (Near West) District. On August 4th, 2023, at approximately 10:25 p.m, a pedestrian was crossing Division Street at Ashland Avenue and was struck by a bright red-colored, 2008, Mercedes-Benz C35, four-door sedan, dark colored rims, with a sunroof and tinted windows. After impact, the Mercedes-Benz and its driver fled westbound on Divison Street at a high rate of speed. The vehicle was last known to display Illinois License Plate DC60012. Damage is expected at or near the grille portion of the vehicle. As a result of the crash, the pedestrian sustained serious personal injuries and was hospitalized.

Week of July 31, 2023

Community Alert

This alert gives notice to the residents in the 014th District of recent related armed robberies. The offenders drove up to the victims who were walking on foot, exited the vehicle, armed with handguns, and demanded the victim's property.

Incident Dates and Locations:

• 1900 block of North California Ave. on August 3, 2023 at 1:15am
• 2600 block of North Fullerton Ave. on August 3, 2023 at 1:20am
• 2000 block of North Milwaukee Ave. on August 3, 2023 at 1:30 am

About the Offender: Male African American(s) 15-25 years old, 5'06"-5'10", 140-160lbs wearing black face masks, dark clothing and armed with handguns.

About the Offender's vehicle: 2022 maroon Dodge Durango. IL plate DV39194

Week of July 24, 2023

Notice of Public Meeting

Join the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability at their upcoming public meeting on Thursday- July 27, 2023 at 6:30pm at the Olive-Harvey College (10001 S. Woodlawn Avenue Chicago, IL 60628).

Agenda items include:

• Vote to approve minutes
• Vote to approve COPA and Police Board selection process
• Update on Police Board application process
• Update on Superintendent search process and next steps
• Update of policy discussion
• Authorization of closed meetings

If you are unable to attend in person, you can participate via Zoom, here.

Updates

A male juvenile offender was arrested by members of the Chicago Police Department on July 23, 2023, at approximately 12:34 a.m. in the 2900 block of W. Armitage Ave. He was identified as the offender who, minutes earlier, attempted to take property at gunpoint from a 29-year-old female and a 35-year-old male in the 3100 block of W. Palmer Blvd. (14th District). The offender was placed into custody and charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

A male juvenile offender was arrested on July 25, 2023, in the 2400 block of W. Belmont. He was identified as one of the offenders who, several hours earlier, took property at gunpoint from multiple victims during 12 incidents that occurred on July 25, 2023 all within minutes of each other. One of these incidents occurred in the 1st Ward.

Community Alert

On June 13, 2023 at approximately 10:17 P.M., a 21-year-old female pedestrian was struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Milwaukee Avenue and Kedzie Avenue. The striking vehicle fled north-westbound on Milwaukee Avenue. A photo of the striking vehicle is pictured below. About the vehicle:

Week of July 10, 2023

Written and published July 14, 2023

Candidates Submitted for Police Superintendent

The Commission for Public Safety and Accountability has officially submitted their nominees for Police Superintendent for the Mayor's Review. The Mayor has 30 days to review the candidates and make a selection. The Commission will continue to provide updates via the CCPSA website. Below are the candidates listed in alphabetical order and their respective qualifications:

• Chief Shon Barnes has been a police officer and police executive for 23 years. Currently, he serves as the Chief of Police in Madison, Wisconsin. He is a highly regarded leader recognized for his expertise in crime reduction, community-based and problem-oriented policing strategies, and community-police relations. He was the Deputy Chief of Police in Salisbury, North Carolina from 2017 to 2020 and Captain of the Greensboro, North Carolina Police Department, where he began his career as a patrol officer in 2000. He also served as the Director of Training and Professional Development for the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) in Chicago. He was honored as a National Institute of Justice, LEADS scholar, for using innovative technology to reduce crime. He is also a University of Chicago Police Leadership Academy Committee member. Chief Barnes is an accomplished academic with a Ph.D in Leadership Studies, specializing in Community and Civic Engagement, Strategic Planning, Police Disparities, and Organizational Change. His dissertation examined racial disparities and profiling in police traffic stops. He earned his PhD Magna Cum Laude from North Carolina A&T University and a Masters in Science, in Criminal Justice, from the University of Cincinnati.

• Chief Angel Novalez is a 23-year member of the Chicago Police Department. He currently serves as the Chief of Constitutional Policing and Reform. He is responsible for leading the Department's policy, training, and reform strategy, and leading the efforts to bring the Department further into compliance with the Consent Decree. As Deputy Chief of Community Policing from 2021 until 2022, he oversaw the Department’s community policing efforts, youth engagement, the Neighborhood Policing Initiative (NPI) Program, and the expansion of CPD’s Civil Rights Unit. He was also responsible for fulfilling community policing related Consent Decree requirements. He previously served as Commander of the Office of Community Policing from 2020 until 2021, a Lieutenant in Area 4 in 2020, a Sergeant in the 5th District, and a police officer in various neighborhoods. He has also served as the commanding officer of the Procedural Justice Training Program at the Education and Training Division. Chief Novalez has testified before the U.S Senate Judiciary Committee about the impact of gun violence on Chicago communities and officers in law enforcement. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in public safety management from Calumet College of St. Joseph, and is currently a candidate for an MBA from St. Xavier University.

• Chief Larry Snelling is a 28-year member of the Chicago Police Department. Currently, he serves as the Chief of Counterterrorism for the Chicago Police Department and oversees 1,200 Department members assigned to multiple divisions including Criminal Networks, Airport Operations, and the Public Transportation Section. Chief Snelling served as the Deputy Chief Area 2 from 2020 until 2022, Commander of the 7th District in 2020, Lieutenant of the 7th District from 2019 until 2020, Sergeant of Training from 2011 until 2019, Sergeant of Patrol of the 22nd District from 2010 until 2011, and as an instructor in the training academy from 2001 until 2010. He redesigned the Department’s current use of force training model around national best practices and constitutional policing, and he has testified as an expert in federal use of force cases. Chief Snelling was a lead trainer for field force training for the 2012 Chicago NATO Summit. He received his BA from DePaul University and is currently a candidate for a Masters of Ethical Leadership from the University of Chicago.

Updates

There were 46 total crimes in the 1st Ward last week, 21 of which were non-violent thefts.

The 1st Ward has seen another wave of Robberies; some of the incidents involved the same offending crew and some were isolated incidents:

• July 9th at 7:30am, offenders were armed with handguns (Beat 1414)

• July 9th only a few minutes earlier, offenders were part of the same crew as above (Beat 1414)

• Also on July 9th, there was a strongarm robbery at a gas station, where a red SUV pulled up to the pump and 2 males exited the vehicle. 1 grabbed her bag and the other grabbed her arm. Offenders fled the scene afterward (Beat 1434)

• On July 7th at 2:50am there was an attempted strongarm robbery in which the offender attempted to rob a convenience store employee for cigarettes (Beat 1431)

• On July 6th an armed robbery occurred on the street, in which a black honda CRV pulled up to a parked vehicle, 5 males (3 armed with handguns, 1 armed with a rifle) jumped out, approached the parked vehicle, and took the victims' belongings. The offenders fled northbound on Milwaukee and a POD camera captured footage of the vehicle (Beat 1414)

• On July 6th at 3am, a white Hyundai sedan with a broken rear window parked in a parking lot, walked into Walgreens, and displayed handguns and demanded cashiers open registers. They stole cash from the register and fled. In the parking lot, they approached another victim and demanded their personal belongings. A POD camera caught the vehicle fleeing the scene. The establishment has videos of the incident to provide to the police (Beat 1434)

• On July 6th, there was an attempted armed robbery of a victim in a car picking up food from a restaurant. The victim was driving westbound and offenders pulled up to try to get him to stop his vehicle but the victim sped away (Beat 1414)

There were 4 motor vehicle thefts in the 14th District; 3 Kias and 1 Hyundai, in the following Beats:

• July 8th in Beat 1433
• July 8th in Beat 1431
• July 7th in Beat 1424
• July 7th in Beat 1431

There were 2 attempted motor vehicle thefts of Kias in Beats 1433 and 1423 on July 4th.

There were 0 carjackings in the 1st Ward last week.

There were 5 Shots Fired calls in the 1st Ward, all in the 14th District side.

• July 9th 4:30am, a male driving a grey Toyota Camry was chasing a light-colored Chrysler sedan, firing shots at the fleeing vehicle. Police found no shell casings, but a POD camera may have caught footage of the incident (Beat 1434)
• July 9th, there was a call to service for 3 shots fired; No shell casings were found and there is no further info at this time (1424)
• July 8th at 1am, 4-5 gunshots were heard, no shell casings were retrieved (1433)
• July 6th, there was a Shots Fired Call but it was due to illegal fireworks going off (1433)
• July 6th at 9:30pm there was a call for Shots Fired, no shell casings found. Possible it was also due to fireworks (1424)

Week of July 3, 2023

Written and published July 7, 2023

Highlights from CPD's June Media Release

Since the beginning of last year, the Department has hired 1,292 recruits, nearly one-third of whom are women and more than 73% are people of color. Another round of entry exams was held this month at several City College locations, with 280 applicants taking the test. Additional entrance exam opportunities will be available throughout the year, and more information is available here.

This month, CPD had multiple draft directives open for public comment as it works to incorporate community feedback into policy development. These draft policies include Prohibition of Sexual Misconduct, De-escalation, Response to Resistance, and Use of Force –Suite and Search Warrants. The Department's draft Racial Equity Action Plan also remains open for public comment through July.

Overall, homicides are down 5.9% year to date, and there’s a 6.4% decline in shooting incidents. Ten of the city’s 22 police districts have recorded a decline in homicides since the beginning of the year.

The homicide clearance rate is 54.15%, the highest, year to date, since 2015.

CPD officers recovered 1,015 firearms in June, and 6,084 firearms since the beginning of the year. That includes the recovery of 568 assault weapons, an 8.6% increase year to date.

Violent crime on the CTA is down 22% month to date and 12% year to date, while overall transit crime is down 8% year to date and 2% compared to June 2022.

Since the start of the year, the city has recorded 584 vehicular hijackings, down 27.9% compared to 2022. Officers have made 996 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 46% increase over this time last year. Of the 106 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 62% have been juvenile offenders.

Updates

A female offender was arrested by members of the Public Transportation Section on July 01, 2023, in the 300 block of S. Dearborn St. She was identified as the offender who, on June 04 2023, pushed a 24-year-old female victim onto the train tracks from the CTA Blue Line platform located in the 1200 block of N. Milwaukee Ave. (14th District). The victim was able to safely return to the platform. The offender was placed into custody and charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

Community Alert

This alert gives notice to residents and businesses of the 014th District of recent armed robberies, in which the victims are approached by the offenders who exit a vehicle displaying handguns demanding the victims' personal property. In one incident a victim was struck in the head with a handgun. Offenders are seen in a white Hyundai Sonata.

Incident time and location:

• 2300 Block of North Damen Ave on July 5, 2023 @ 11:56 PM
• 2300 Block of West Armitage Ave on July 6, 2023 @ 12:10 AM
• 2800 Block of West Lyndale Ave on July 6, 2023 @ 1:50 AM
• 2000 Block of North Milwaukee Ave on July 6, 2023 @ 3:00 AM

Offender Description: 4 African American males, 18-25 years of age, 5'07-5'08 in height, wearing black hoodies, gray pants and black ski masks armed with handguns.

Week of June 26, 2023

Written and published June 30, 2023

14th District Council

The next 14th District Council Meeting will be held this Saturday, July 1 at 1pm, at the Logan Square Library (3030 W Fullerton Ave). They will have a guest speaker from Action Center on Race and Economy, discussing Surveillance vs Security and budget priorities for safety. Come join the conversations that will help shape police and safety policy from the bottom up!

Wanted to attend the last meeting but weren't able to make it? You can now watch it on their new Facebook page! Click here to watch last month's meeting.

Highlights from the June Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) Meeting

The Commission been actively interviewing candidates for the next Police Superintendent and have completed the second round of interviews. They will nominate their top 3 candidates within the next 2 weeks to send to Mayor Johnson for appointment. This will be an open hearing and the date/time will be posted at least 7 days before the date of the meeting. The next Superintendent must be selected before August 13; if Mayor Johnson rejects all the Commission's nominees, then the Commission will select another 3 nominees for his review. The Mayor’s selection is then subject to City Council Approval.

The Commission currently has 2 draft policies open for public comment:

• Draft Policy for COPA Chief Administrator Selection Procedures
• Draft Policy for Police Board Member Selection Procedures

Review policies on the Commission’s website and submmit your feedback via email to communitycommissionpubliccomment@cityofchicago.org

The Application window is still open for Police Board positions! Click here to learn more about the position and to find out how to apply.

Starting July 1, 2023, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) will be implementing a Timeliness Initiative to evaluate the aging cases in their caseloads (they currently have around 1400 open cases that are 2 years or older). They will have a dedicated unit in their investigations division for aging cases, tasked with reviewing caseloads of each investigator and providing criteria for cases that can be solved by recommending additional training rather than discipline. These recommendations will be used mainly for operational violations such as not operating a body-worn camera or improper documentation of cases, or situations where there’s no evidence that any offense was purposeful rather than accidental. Cases that are not eligible for training recommendations would be incidents with Officer-Involved Shootings, deaths, sexual assaults, and incidents where false information is provided by an officer. COPA has implemented this new initiative because when timeliness in reviewing cases is not achieved, there is limitation to any disciplinary action that can be taken in the arbitration process. Cases over 18 months have almost no chance in arbitration of being successful.

Community Alert

This alert gives notice to residents of the 12th, 14th and 18th Districts of recently reported Armed Robbery and Vehicular Hijacking incidents. In each incident offenders exit a vehicle and approach victims on the public way. In each incident, the offenders approach victims display handgun and demand cellphones and purses or bags. The offenders are driving a red sedan and in some incidents additional vehicles (NFD) are accompanying the red sedan. In one of the incidents a street vendor and its patrons were also robbed in the early morning hours.

Incident times and locations:

• 1800 block of West Grand, Friday June 23, 2023 at 10:00 pm
• 1900 block of West Ohio, Friday June 23, 2023 at 10:15 pm
• 200 block of West Institute Place, Friday June 23, 2023 at 11:50 pm
• 1000 block of North Milwaukee, Saturday June 24, 2023 at 12:05 am
• 1300 block of North Paulina, Saturday June 24, 2023 at 12:07am
• 1900 block of 21st St., Saturday June 24, 2023 at 7:10 am
• 1200 block of North Maplewood, Sunday, June 25, 2023, at 9:07 am
• 2100 block of West North Ave, Sunday, June 25, 2023, at 9:30 am

Offenders Description: The offenders are described as four to five African American males, 20-25 years of age, wearing dark clothing. The offenders are armed with black semi-automatic handguns and rifles.

Updates

There were 37 total crimes in the 1st Ward last week, 20 of which were nonviolent thefts.

There were 2 Shots Fired incidents in the 1st Ward, one in Beat 1431, when an offender in a potentially stolen Kia fired at a black Jeep, and one in Beat 1215, which was a Reckless Discharge charge. In each incident there were no injuries.

There were 8 Motor Vehicle Thefts in the following Beats:

• 1215
• 2 incidents in 1431, and 1 attempted theft
• 1411
• 1414
• 1424
• 1433

In some of these incidents, the victim left their car running while they were not in the vehicle. Police strongly advise never to leave your car running, and the 14th District has free steering-wheel-lock devices available for residents who own a Kia and Hyundai in order to deter theft.

There was 1 carjacking in the Ward on Thursday, June 22nd at 06:30 am in Beat 1212.

There were 3 armed robberies unrelated to the above, 1 in the 12th District and 2 in the 14th District. They do not appear connected to each other either; in 1 incident (Beat 1433) the victim was robbed by an unknown male while getting gas, in another incident in Beat 1433, 2 men approached the victim with a 9mm handgun and took their belongings. In Beat 1213, an armed robbery occurred at the Polish Triangle by the blue line L stop.

There was 1 stabbing incident in Beat 1424. Police have reason to believe this was a gang-related incident, and the victim did not wish to work with the police to ID the offender. The incident did not result in serious injuries to the victim.

Week of June 19, 2023

Written and published June 23, 2023

Week of June 12, 2023

Written and published June 16, 2023

Updates

There were a total of 35 crimes reported in the 1st Ward last week, 20 of which were nonviolent thefts.

There were 5 Shots Fired incidents in the 1st Ward last week:

• One in Beat 1434 on June 11th at 3:46am
• Two incidents in Beat 1424, on June 11th at 12:22am and on June 7th at 4pm
• One in Beat 1215 on June 11th at 12:15am
• One in Beat 1421 on June 8th at 10pm

In each incident no shell casings were found, there was no damage to property, and there were no injuries.

There were 3 robberies in the Ward, in Beat 1424 on June 5th and 6th and Beat 1215 on June 6th.

There were 5 motor vehicle thefts, 2 in Beat 1215, 3 in Beat 1213, and 1 in Beat 1424.

There were 2 criminal sexual assaults in Beat 1213, one of which was aggravated with use of a handgun.

Community Alert

This alert gives notice to residents in the 12th and 14th Districts of recent armed robberies. The offenders approach in a vehicle and display a handgun while searching victims for valuables. The offenders then flee in the vehicle.

Incident times and locations:

• 1300 block of N. Damen on June 7 at 12:44 a.m.
• 1800 block of N. Milwaukee on June 7 at 12:45 a.m. (Ward-adjacent)
• 1600 block of N. Talman on June 7 at 1:20 a.m. (Ward-adjacent)

About the offenders: The offenders are described are 4 males, 15-25 years old, wearing all black clothing, gloves and masks over their faces.

Beat 1215 Armed Robberies

This alert gives notice to 4 robberies that occurred on 1215's Beat Thursday, June 15th, possibly by same offenders.

• Taken from victim was 3 phones, passport, keys and wallet. Offender description: 3 male blacks armed (1 wearing black jacket, 1 wearing red jacket, all masked) exited red SUV with shattered rear passenger window and demanded items. Occurred on the 1400 block of W. Hubbard.

• Taken from victim was house keys, car keys, $160 USC. Offender description: 3 male blacks wearing masks exited red SUV all armed demanding items. Occurred on the 1700 block of W. Erie.

• Taken from victim was her purse with personal belongings. Offenders were male blacks wearing masks exiting a red SUV armed demanding items. Occurred on the 1600 block of W. Ohio.

• Taken from victim was his 2020 BMW (lic#CJ42498). 1 masked male exited a red SUV and approached armed demanding the vehicle. Occurred on the 2200 block of W. Hubbard.

The Red Kia had a plate of (TX) SKH9634 and was followed by a stolen BMW (lic#CJ42498). The BMW was later found in south alley of 322 S. Francisco.

Save the Date! 12th District National Night Out

Join CPD's 12th District for the upcoming National Night Out event! The event will take place on August 1st from 6pm to 9pm on Michigan Avenue.

This year's National Night Out event will be a combined effort between the 001st, 012th, and 018th districts. It is an exciting opportunity for residents, community organizations, and law enforcement professionals from these districts to come together and strengthen relationships while celebrating our vibrant community.

There will be a boat parade and entertainment for children, various interactive booths, and exhibits that will showcase the diverse offerings of our community. From local businesses and nonprofits to government agencies, these exhibits will highlight the resources available to our residents and foster connections between community members.

The combined event will also feature live performances from talented local artists, ensuring there will be continuous entertainment throughout the evening. It will be a celebration of our community's spirit, unity, and commitment to creating safer and more inclusive neighborhoods. Save the date to attend this event!

14th District Council Public Meeting

Have concerns about police and public safety? Come share your experience with the 14th District Council! The next monthly meeting for the 14th District Council will be Saturday, June 17th at 1pm at the Logan Square Library (3030 W Fullerton Ave).

This meeting will host a guest speaker Olan from CAARPR explaining "How We Got Here: the History of Community Control of Police." Come join the conversations that will help shape police and safety policy from the bottom up!

CAPS Beat Facilitator Applications Open!

The Community Policing Office is hosting it's 2023 Beat Facilitator Drive. CPD's CAPS office is recruiting and training community residents to become Beat Facilitators and Co-Facilitators. Both Beat Facilitators and Co-Facilitators play an important role in public safety.

Apply today to become a Beat Facilitator!

The Beat Facilitator Drive is organized by Stand Up and Speak Out Chicago, a campaign organized by the Chicago Police Department to ask Community Residents and business stakeholders to unite efforts to work together to create change, build relationships and make Chicago safe.

Week of June 5, 2023

Written and published June 9, 2023

Updates

There were a total of 35 crimes in the 1st Ward last week, 22 of which were nonviolent thefts. There were 9 instances of violent crimes.

There were 3 shots fired incidents, all of which occurred in the 14th District (Beats 1431, 1424, and 1414). In 2 incidents no shell casings were found at the scene, and in the 3rd incident a report was generated for vehicle damage to property.

There was 1 carjacking in the 1st Ward last week on June 5th at 11:30am. The offender stole a Postal Service truck and the vehicle was recovered by CPD shortly thereafter in Maywood, IL.

There were 5 motor vehicle thefts last week, in Beats 1414, 1424, 1212, and 1215. There were 4 attempted motor vehicle thefts in Beats 1212, 1213, 1424, and 1433.

There were 6 robberies last week, which do not appear connected. 3 of them were in the 14th District, two in Beat 1424 and one in Beat 1411. The other 3 occurred in District 12, in Beat 1213.

There were no burglaries in the Ward last week.

14th District Council Meetings

Improve safety, equity, and justice in your community with your new District Council! Through the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability, the DCs have power over CPD and the city's broader approach to public safety thru community violence prevention.

Join the conversations that will help shape policy from the bottom up at 14th DC's new community committee meetings! Work on Police Accountability, Oversight, and Policy at Cafe Moustache (2313 N Milwaukee Ave) this Sunday the 11th from 3-4pm or on Alternative Responses and Safety Solutions this Monday the 12th from 6-7pm at Humboldt Library (1605 N Troy St).

14th DC's monthly public meeting for June will be held on Saturday, June 17th from 1-2:30pm at the Logan Square Library (3030 W Fullerton) and will feature guest speaker Olan from CAARPR discussing "How We Got Here: the History of Community Control Over Police."

CCPSA Police Board Positions Open

The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability is now accepting applications for the Chicago Police Board. For further details on the application process, eligibility requirements, and roles and responsibilities of the Police Board, please their website here.

Prospective candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter, resume, a list of five references, completed eligibility form, and completed conflict-of-interest form to PoliceBoardNominations@cityofchicago.org.

Week of May 29, 2023

Highlights from CPD's May Media Release

Citywide, there were 62 murders this month, a 6% reduction compared to May 2022. Overall, homicides are down 9.48% year to date, and there’s a 6.28% decline in shooting incidents. Half of the city’s 22 police districts have recorded a decline in homicides. The Department’s Bureau of Detectives’ homicide clearance rate is 60.26%, the highest, year to date, since 2015.

CPD has increased its presence across the city and on the lakefront to maintain public safety in areas of large-scale events, gatherings and car caravans. The Bureau of Patrol has hosted numerous tabletop exercises and drills to ensure appropriate police response to active situations. CPD is also working closely with community organizations and leaders to provide safe spaces for youth and families to enjoy the city.

The number of vehicular hijackings also continues to decline, while related arrests are on the rise. Compared to this time last year, vehicular hijackings are down 28.8%. Officers have made 860 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 49.8% increase year to date. Of the 98 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 65% have been juvenile offenders.

Over these first five months of the year, officers have recovered 5,057 firearms, up 7.7% over last year. That includes the recovery of 451 assault weapons, a 13.8% increase year to date. The Department maintained that momentum by teaming up with community partners for the first five gun turn-in events this year - one in each Area - where 450 firearms and 135 replicas were collected.

The Department is also looking to the future generation of CPD officers. The fourth round of in-person exams was held this month at several City College locations, with 142 applicants taking the exam. Additional entrance exam opportunities will be available all year long, and more information is available here.

Business Alert

This alert gives notice to Medical Spa owners of burglaries in the early morning hours. Windows and doors are broken and offenders enter medical spa. Offenders then take high end-laser machines. Incident times and locations:

• 1900 block of West Wabansia on May 25, 2023 at 2:00am
• 1700 block of West North Ave on May 25, 2023 at 7:00am
• 1200 block of North Milwaukee on May 28, 2023 at 3:30 am

Offender Description(s): Males, black clothing, black ski masks, gloves.

What you can do:

• Secure expensive equipment.
• Have serial numbers in a safe place.
• Attach tracker "tags" to valuable items.
• Do not leave any Cash in the register.
• Have secure bolted down safe or drop box for cash deposits.
• Install quality video surveillance cameras and alarms.

Week of May 22, 2023

Written and published May 22, 2023

Community Alerts

This alert gives notice to residents of the 014th District of recent armed robberies, in which the victims are approached by the offenders, who jump out of vehicle, point handguns at the victim, and demand the victim's personal property (wallet, cash, phones, laptops, and handbags). In one incident a victim was struck in the head by one of the offender's handguns. 1st Ward & 1st Ward adjacent incident times and locations:

• 1200 Block of North Damen Ave on May 21, 2023 @ 12:30 AM
• 2700 Block of North Milwaukee Ave on May 21, 2023 @ 1:00 AM
• 2600 Block of North Kedzie Ave on May 21, 2023 @ 1:05 AM
• 2900 Block of West Armitage Ave on May 21, 2023 @ 1:08 AM

Offender Description: 4 male subjects, African-American, 15-21 years of age, wearing black hoodies and black ski masks armed with handguns

Week of May 15, 2023

Written and published May 19, 2023

Next Lyon's Den Deleterious Impact Hearing

The next Lyon's Den Community Meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 23rd at 11am. Below is the information to attend the virtual hearing and provide feedback to BACP regarding the establishment. Please note that this meeting is not subject to the Open Meetings Act and representatives of the press are not to join so as to allow members of the community to speak freely about their concerns.

Meeting link:

https://chicagogov.webex.com/chicagogov/j.php?MTID=m7521b93d22b7ba83e977ae61e44774ed

Meeting number: 2496 848 5578

Password: 5232023

Community Commission on Public Safety and Accountability Next Monthly Meeting

Join the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability at their upcoming public meeting on Thursday- May 25, 2023 at 6:30pm at Harry S Truman College (1145 W Wilson Chicago, IL 60640).

Agenda items include:

• Vote to submit consent decree compliance items to monitor
• Commission Updates
• Next steps for District Councils

If you are unable to attend in person, you can participate via Zoom. Anyone interested in speaking during the virtual public comment period must send a request to Community Commission staff by emailing: Nicole.Garcia@cityofchicago.org.

Community Commission on Public Safety and Accountability Superintendent Search

The final CCPSA Community Forum on the Superintendent search will be held Monday, May 22, 2023 at the Beverly Arts Center from 6PM-8PM. If you are unable to attend the forum, please fill out their survey in English or Spanish to provide your opinions on the qualifications and experience you believe are essential for Chicago's next CPD Superintendent.

Updates

An adult female offender was arrested by members of the Vehicular Hijacking Task Force on May 18, 2023 at approximately 11:14 a.m. in the 800 block of N. Racine Ave. She was identified as the offender who, moments earlier, took property from several victims at gunpoint. The incidents occurred in the following locations and approximate times:

• 1700 block of W. Crystal St. (14th District, 1st Ward) at approx. 9:05 a.m. - 44-year-old male victim
• 1800 block of W. Chicago Ave. (12th District, 1st Ward) at approx. 9:56 a.m. - 36-year-old male victim
• 700 block of N. Willard Ct. (12th District, just outside our Ward boundaries) at approx. 10:10 a.m. - 30-year-old male victim.

The offender was placed into custody and charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

Commercial Burglaries Alert

This alert gives notice to business owners of Bars, Restaurants and Taverns. Burglaries, Attempt Burglaries and Criminal Damage to Property have been occurring in the early morning hours. Offenders break window with rock/brick to make entry, then go directly to cash register and safe to take cash. Offenders use a crowbar to defeat registers and safes.

• 1300 block of West Grand, Saturday April 29, 2023
• 1000 block of North Milwaukee, Monday May 15, 2023

Offender Description(s): Males, black clothing, black ski masks, gloves.

Police advise not to leave any Cash in the register after closing, to have secure bolted down safe or drop box for cash deposits, and to install quality video surveillance cameras and alarms.

Week of May 8, 2023

Written and published May 10, 2023

Highlights from CPD's Summer Safety Plan

To enhance coordination and communication, the Summer Operations Center (SOC) has been activated at OEMC. The SOC is the nucleus for citywide deployment of public safety personnel and resources. The center is staffed by CPD and OEMC personnel who will work collaboratively as part of the City's overall violence reduction efforts.

To supplement resources already within police districts, CPD will increase its presence across the city and on the lakefront this summer to maintain public safety in areas of large-scale events, gatherings and car caravans. In addition to these precision deployments, the Bureau of Patrol has also held numerous tabletop exercises and drills to ensure appropriate police response to active situations. CPD is also working closely with community organizations and leaders to provide safe spaces for youth and families to enjoy the city.

Updates

On May 9, 2023, 2 juvenile offenders were arrested by members of the Vehicle Hijacking Task Force and identified as two of the offenders who participated in several incidents that occurred at the following date, locations and approximate times:

• March 24, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. – 1900 block of W. Huron St. (12th District); Possession of a previously reported stolen vehicle of a 53-year-old male victim

• March 24, 2023 at 7:35 p.m. - 1300 block of W. Hubbard St. (12th District); Battered a 50-year-old male victim

• March 24, 2023 at 10:30 p.m. - 2300 block of W. Taylor St. (12th District); Took a vehicle at gunpoint from a 42-year-old male victim

• March 24, 2023 at 11:33 p.m. - 1700 block of W. Superior St. (12th District); Took property from a 22-year-old male and a 24-year-old female victim

• March 25, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. - 2000 block of W. Huron St. (12th District); Possession of a previously reported stolen vehicle of a 31-year-old male victim

One of the offenders was also identified as having participated in 6 incidents of armed robbery and 1 carjacking between the hours of 4am and 6am on March 20, 2023 across the 12th and 14th Districts. 4 of these incidents were Ward-adjacent, 2 occurred within Ward boundaries, and 1 incident was far outside our Ward boundary.

An adult male offender was arrested by members of the Chicago Police Department on May 11, 2023, in the 1700 block of S. State Street. He was identified as the offender who, on May 5, 2023 at approximately 6:15 a.m., forcefully took property from 35-year-old male victim in the 1900 block of N. Western Ave. (14th District). The offender was placed into custody and charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

A male offender was arrested by members of the Vehicular Hijacking Taskforce on May 11, 2023, in the 2600 block of S. California. He was identified as one of the offenders who, on July 26, 2022, implied he had a weapon and unlawfully entered the vehicle of a 27-year-old male in the 1400 block of W. Huron (12th District), just outside the 1st Ward boundary. The offender then took the victim's vehicle and other belongings by force. The offender was placed into custody and charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

Week of May 1, 2023

Written and published May 3, 2023

Highlights from CPD's April Media Release

This April, the Chicago Police Department's Vehicular Hijacking Task Force was awarded the 2023 Mayor’s Medal of Honor, honoring the collaborative work of CPD officers, the Cook County Sheriff's Office and Illinois State Police to combat carjackings across the city. Compared to this time last year, vehicular hijackings are down 25.5%. Officers have made 705 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 49% increase year to date. Of the 80 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 69% have been juvenile offenders.

CPD recently extended the public comment period for its draft search warrant directives through May 31, 2023. Follow the link to review the draft directive and offer feedback on policies as they are being developed. Once the comment period closes, the input gathered will be used to inform the final policies. This month, the Department closed public comment on policies regarding People with Disabilities and Interactions with Youth and Children.

North Side Community Forum on the Police Superintendent Search on May 4, 2023

The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) invites you to join them at their upcoming North Side Community Forum to be held on Thursday, May 4, 2023 at Roosevelt High School (3436 W Wilson Avenue) from 6pm-8pm. Residents can RSVP here: bit.ly/43U1bpQ.

Entry Doors: Entry doors are at the corner of Kimball and Wilson (Door 13) Ramp for ADA- (Door 9 on the corner of Wilson and St. Louis)

Parking: Street parking available on Wilson Avenue Parking lot available in lot north of school, bound by Leland and St. Louis (Enter on Leland)

If you require language interpretation, including accommodations for deaf and hard of hearing residents, please contact Commission staff at communitycommission@cityofchicago.org.

Updates

There were 0 shots fired incidents in the 1st Ward last week.

There were 7 incidents of Motor Vehicle Theft on the 14th District side of the 1st Ward. Of these thefts, 5 were Hyundais, 1 was a Kia, and one was a Jeep Cherokee. These are the 3 most common vehicles stolen across the city. If you are a 14th District resident, the District CAPS Office has free clubs available for owners of Kias and Hyundais to deter theft. If you are a Jeep owner, make sure to keep your car keys as far away from the vehicle as possible while not driving; offenders have a device specifically targetted toward Jeeps that reprograms the owners' keys if left within a certain distance of the car, even if the keys are inside the home. This device allows them to steal the car without actually breaking into it while simultaneously reprogramming the owners' keys not to work.

Week of April 24, 2023

Written and published April 28, 2023

14th District Police Council Meetings

Announcing first-ever public monthly meetings of newly elected 14th Police District Council!

The District Council will gather input from the community about public safety and police accountability issues and work with the city to implement new policies based on those concerns, ideas, and demands.

• Saturday, May 13th, 1-3pm - Wicker Park Library (1701 N Milwaukee)
• Saturday, June 17th, 1-3pm - Logan Square Library (3030 W Fullerton)
• Saturday, July 1st, 1-3pm - Logan Square Library (3030 W Fullerton)

And planning to continue on the first Saturday of each month.

At this first meeting, the District Council will introduce themselves, their roles, and the purpose of the District Councils as part of the new Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability. They will pass some preliminary motions to get started, and most importantly, hear feedback, questions, concerns, and comments from the community about public safety, police accountability and the District Council.

Additional round table discussions to listen and gather more input will be held by the Community Engagement Coordinator on:

• Monday, May 15th, 6-7pm at the Humboldt Park Library (1605 N Troy)
• Monday, June 5th, 6-7pm at the Humboldt Park Library (1605 N Troy)

Updates

A juvenile offender was arrested on April 26, 2023, in the 5100 block of S. Wentworth. He was identified as one of the offenders who, on March 13, 2023, took personal possessions from a 26-year-old female victim at the CTA Division Blue Line Platform on the 1200 block of N Milwaukee in the 1st Ward's 14th District. The offender was placed into custody and charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

Last week there was a string of robberies in the 14th District in which 1 team committed 3 robberies within a 20 minute span all around 3am.

While Kia and Hyundai owners are the most frequent victims of auto thefts, Jeep Cherokees and Dodges are the 3rd most common vehicles stolen currently. If you are a Jeep owner, police recommend to keep your key as far away from your vehicle as possible when not driving. If the key is within a certain distance, even if it's inside your home, offenders are able to use a device that can reprogram the key to steal the car without actually breaking into it and will cause the owners' keys to no longer work.

There were 0 shots fired incidents in the 1st Ward last week.

Week of April 17, 2023

Written and published April 26, 2023

Updates

There were 2 Shots Fired incidents in the 12th District this week - one in Beat 1213 and one in Beat 1221. There were no injuries, and both calls were coded out as the police did not recover any shell casings or other evidence to investigate. There were 2 incidents in the 14th District, in Beats 1424 and 1434. There were no injuries or shell casings found in these incidents either.

There was one armed robbery in the Ward (Beat 1212), but we have no actionable updates at this time.

The 1st Ward saw a wave of burglaries across the 12th District during this week, in which offenders broke into several businesses and stole money from cash registers after closing. We've reached out to all our businesses in the Ward to advise them to clear out their cash registers every night to avoid theft.

Motor Vehicle Thefts continue to be one of the most common incidents across the Ward. The biggest concentration of these thefts is in Beats 1422, 1423, and 1432, and the majority of victims are still owners of Hyundais and Kias. The 14th District has free steering wheel lock devices available for any 14th District resident and will be flyering those beats to encourage residents to pick them up from the District.

There were no Vehicular Hijackings in the Ward last week.

On April 18, a juvenile was arrested by members of the Vehicle Hijacking Task Force and charged with Vehicle Hijacking (2), Robbery, Aggravated Battery, and Possession of a Stolen Vehicle. He hijacked the first vehicle in the 14th District part of the 1st Ward, and hijacked another vehicle in the 12th District just outside our Ward boundary.

Week of April 10, 2023

Business Alert

Please be aware that the 12th District has had a few strings of Burglaries that took place on April 3rd , April 7th , April 9th and April 10th at the businesses of Roots Pizza Restaurant, Output Sport Bar and Lounge and Little Victories Restaurant. The cash registers were burglarized and police advise not to keep too much cash in the registers around closing time.

Week of April 3, 2023

Written and pblished April 3, 2023

Highlights from CPD's March Media Release

Vehicular Hijacking and Motor Vehicle Thefts: This month, the Chicago Police Department joined Illinois State Police for the Illinois Secretary of State’s announcement of grant funding that will help combat vehicular hijackings and motor vehicle thefts. CPD will receive $1.4 million to expand on already existing efforts to strengthen investigations and provide anti-theft resources to community members. Vehicular hijackings are down 28.6% compared to this time last year. Officers have made 525 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 44.2% increase year to date. Of the 67 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 73% have been juvenile offenders.

Recruitment Efforts: The Department launched new programs to rehire former CPD officers and offer lateral hires for currently employed sworn officers from other law enforcement agencies. The rehire program will allow for sworn officers who have previously worked at CPD to come back under an expedited process. The lateral hire program establishes a process for sworn officers from other law enforcement agencies to join CPD while receiving credit for their law enforcement experience.

If interested in reading the full media release, you can do so here.

Highlights from the March Monthly Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) Meeting

Save the Date(s)!

The CCPSA is in the process of searching for a new Police Superintendent. They plan to hold four (4) community meetings before hiring on the below dates:

• April 11 at the Kehrein Center for the Arts (5628 W Washington Blvd)
• April 19 - Location TBD
• April 25 (virtual) - https://bit.ly/42UNfeE
• May 4 - Location TBD

If you would like to express the qualifications you expect the Commission to look for in the candidates, have any issues you'd like to bring forth regarding the applications process, or recommendations on what you would like to see with the next Superintendent, please attend one of the meetings and voice your thoughts! These meetings are open to community members and police officers alike. The Commission will be there to listen and gather insights on what qualities, characteristics, and skills residents of our city believe we need in a Superintendent.

Criminal Enterprise Information System Update: Last November CPD proposed the Criminal Enterprise Information System as a special order to collect/store information about people identified as potentially engaging in gang activity. Before the Commission makes the final draft, you can read the draft policy on the "What Policies is the Commission Working on?" page on their website and provide feedback.

The next CCPSA meeting will be held on April 27, 2023 at 6:30pm. If you'd like to attend either virtually or in-person, contact the 1st Ward office for more information.

CPS's Safe Haven Program

For over 10 years, the Safe Haven Program has kept CPS kids safe, healthy, and active during spring and summer breaks as well as after school. The program incorporates social-emotional learning, academic assistance, and fun. Additionally, students get healthy meals and snacks at no cost to their families. Sites are open from Monday, April 3 to Friday, April 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Click here for a list of Safe Haven sites that will be open over spring break.

Written and published April 5, 2023

Edited with additional information April 6, 2023

Updates

This morning, the 1st Ward saw a violent crime spree involving 2 carjackings and 4 robberies. The Alderman has been in regular contact with 14th District command to receive any actionable and shareable updates. Thus far, CPD has located 2 stolen vehicles, and juveniles have been arrested in posession of one of the stolen vehicles. They have been charged with 2 counts of Vehicle Hijacking, 2 counts of Armed Robbery, and 1 count of Attempted Roberry. We will remain in contact with the 14th District for additional updates.

Week of March 27, 2023

Written and published March 30-31, 2023

Updates

While violent crime is still down overall in the ward (zero shootings year to date, carjackings down 58%), robberies are now up 11% with 20 incidents in the last 28 days. The 1st Ward Office is working on mapping these incidents to request special attention in these areas.

Business Alert

This alert gives notice to businesses in the 14th District of recent related armed robberies, thefts, and attempted armed robberies to commercial businesses. The offender entered businesses and broke the glass of a display case and then took multiple items and fled out of the fire escape of the business. In one incident, the offender attempted to take money from the register, but was confronted by staff and threatened them.

Incident times and locations:

• 1600 block of West Division St on March 26, 2023 at 8:44am
• 1200 block of N Milwaukee Ave on March 26, 2023 at 9:02am
• 1300 block of N Paulina Ave on March 26, 2023 at 9:25am

Offender Description: Single male dressed in all black with a black ski mask, driving a Gray Chevy 4-Door Pickup Truck

Community Alert

This alert gives notice to residents in the 14th District of recent related armed robberies. The unknown offenders approached the victims displayed handguns and demanded the victim's personal property. The offenders then fled in a blue colored Hyundai, with broken passenger window.

Incident times and locations:

• 1200 Block of North Wolcott Ave on March 27, 2023 at 3:00 AM
• 2000 Block of West Crystal St on March 27, 2023 at 3:02 AM

Offender Description: Multiple males, 15-21 years of age, 5'11-6'01, skinny wearing dark color clothing and black ski masks armed with handguns

Week of March 13, 2023

Written and published March 17, 2023

CPD's Racial Equity Action Plan

The Chicago Police Department is currently developing a Racial Equity Action Plan (REAP). This is part of a citywide effort aligned to Municipal Code 2-4-100 that requires all city departments to create a Racial Equity Action Plan. All City departments are responsible for creating and reporting progress on their REAPs.

The REAP will be a three-year roadmap outlining strategies and actions that the CPD will take to close racial equity gaps, ensure equitable and constitutional policing services for all Chicagoan's, and measure progress toward a more equitable City of Chicago and Chicago Police Department.

The Chicago Police Department is inviting the public to provide feedback to us through a survey on what you believe should be included in our REAP. Currently, the first draft of the REAP is being developed. We expect to publish the draft in early May 2023 and will invite the community to review the draft plan and provide additional feedback on it then.

Click here to begin the survey. Responses to this survey are entirely anonymous and all questions are optional.

This survey will be open until April 9th, 2023.

Updates

There were 0 incidents of shots fired in the 1st Ward last week.

There has been a sharp increase in armed robberies in the 1st Ward (7 total instances last week). It is believed that the majority of these are related and committed by the same offenders. Most of these incidents occurred between the hours of midnight and 6am, and the offenders are using a stolen white Mazda SUV to commit these robberies. If you are the victim of this type of crime, police advise to comply with their requests and to try to observe identifying characteristics of the offenders (shoes, tattoos/markings, etc.) and the car they use (license plate number, dents), if possible.

Week of March 6, 2023

Written and published March 9, 2023

Community Alerts

This alert gives notice to residents of the 12th and 14th Districts of recent armed robberies, in which the victims are approached by the offenders who display handguns, point the guns at the victims, and demand their personal property (wallet, money, laptops and cellphone). The offenders are seen driving a 2020 Hyundai Tucson Illinois Registration: CV47270. Maroon or Burgundy in color. That vehicle appears to have its passenger side rear window broken out and what appears to be a jacket or sweatshirt securing the window.

St. Patrick's Day Notices

Residents and visitors are encouraged to download the new Chicago OEMC App as a public safety tool providing public safety information, preparedness tips, emergency alerts, St. Patrick's Day parade day weather information, and more in the palm of your hand. The app is now available through the Apple App and Google Play stores. To immediately download, visit the website Chicago.gov/oemc.

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) will monitor events in collaboration with public safety partners. OEMC will issue any alerts and notifications needed to keep residents and attendees up to date on weather conditions and emergencies. Sign up for NotifyChicago alerts at NotifyChicago.org. OEMC also issues TEXT alerts for lakefront notices, issues affecting businesses or COVID-19 updates:

CHILAKE: For lakefront notices, TEXT “CHILAKE” to 7-8-0-1-5

CHIBIZ: For alerts affecting businesses, TEXT “CHIBIZ” to 6-7-2-8-3

COVID: Get COVID-19 updates by TEXTING “COVID19” to 6-7-2-8-3

Survivor Crisis Fund

The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence is excited to share that their Survivor Crisis Fund is now accepting applications! On Thursday, March 9th at 10:00AM The Network launched The Survivor Crisis Fund application at https://the-network.org/survivor-fund/ to the public. One-time funding, at this point, will be available for survivors who are residents of Chicago, Cook County and DuPage County (as rental assistance) OR for residents of Chicago (as a $1000 payment).

They will accept a limited number of applications and then they will close down the portal to begin the review process. Once these applications are all reviewed,they will open up the application portal again.

To learn more, you can join one of their info sessions and check out their FAQ page.

Week of February 27, 2023

Written and published March 3, 2023

1st Lyon's Den Community Meeting

BACP held the first community meeting regarding public safety issues on Lyon's Den and Division St. on March 2, 2023. If you were unable to attend the meeting and would like to discuss the takeaways, you can email info@the1stward.com for more information. The next meeting will be held on Thursday, April 13, 2023 at 11am. If you need the link to attend the next meeting, please let us know and we can send it to you.

Highlights from CPD's February Media Release

Vehicular hijackings are down 23% compared to this time last year, while we have seen an increase in autombile thefts, particularly for Kia and Hyundai owners. In reponse to the city's uptick in automobile thefts, CPD recently launched a specific Motor Vehicle Theft Task Force. Officers have made 380 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 59.6% increase year to date. Of the 58 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 69% have been juvenile offenders.

CPD has opened up multiple draft directives for public comment. The People with Disabilities draft directive remains open for public comment through March 31, 2023 as well as the revised Search Warrants – Draft Review.

Highlights from the February Monthly Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) Meeting

The Commission is still looking for members for its Non-Citizen Advisory Council. The purpose of these positions is to provide internal support that better informs the Commission’s work while connecting them to immigrants in the city. Any Chicagoan can apply as long as they meet the following criteria:

• Residing in city
• Noncitizen or advocate of noncitizens
• Share in goal to improve public safety

You can apply directly to Commissioners Gomez. Here is a link to the application.

--

La Comision busca nuevos miembros para el Consejo Consultivo de Inmigrantes No-ciudadanos. El proposito de esta posicion es proveer apoyo interno para ayudar con la mision de la Comision, mientras que conecta a la Comision con los inmigrantes en la ciudad. Cada residente en Chicago puede aplicar con tal de que satisfechan lo siguiente:

• Viven en la ciudad de Chicago
• No son ciudadanos O son defensores de la gente que no es ciudadana
• Tienen la meta de mejorar la seguridad publica

Para llenar una aplicacion en espanol, haz click aqui. Se puede enviar la aplicacion directamente a Comisionado Gomez.

Community Alerts

This alert gives notice to the residents of the 012th and 014th Districts of recent related robbery incidents. In each occurrence, three to four armed offenders approached victims on the public way and demanded the victims' property by threatening use of force. Upon taking possession of the victims’ personal belongings, the offenders entered into and fled in a waiting stolen vehicle.

Offender Description: The offenders are described as 3-4 African American males, 20-25 years of age, wearing dark clothing and ski masks. The offenders are armed with semi-automatic handguns.

Week of February 20, 2023

Written and published February 23, 2023

Catalytic Converters

The 1st Ward Office has some extra catalytic converters for residents with vehicles registered in the 14th District. These converters are marked with an identifying "fingerprint" that allows police to track the vehicle in the instance of theft. If you are interested in picking up a registered catalytic converter, please come to the 1st Ward Office at 1958 N Milwaukee Ave and bring your ID as proof you live in the 14th District. We have a limited supply available, so they will be first come first serve.

Updates

The 1st Ward saw no robberies, no burglaries, and no homicides this past week.

We do continue to see an uptick in Motor Vehicle Thefts, specifically for Kias and Hyundais. If you are the owner of one of these vehicles, police encourage you to buy a club or steering wheel lock device to deter theft. If you own a Kia or Hyundai and are in need one of these devices, the 14th District CAPS office has some extra clubs available. Please call their office at 312-744-8290 beforehand to ask if any are still available. When picking up your club, bring an ID showing you live in the 14th District and vehicle registration proving you own a KIA or Hyundai.

Week of February 6, 2023

Written and published February 8, 2023

14th District Vehicle Safety Day

The 14th District is hosting a vehicle safety day on Saturday, February 18, 2023. Come register and mark your vehicle’s catalytic converter to help prevent theft, learn about the Cook County Sherriff’s Office and CPD vehicle tracking program, apply for the Chicago Community Safety Coordination Center (CSCC) vehicle GPS reimbursement program, receive giveaways, and more.

This event is available only for vehicles registered in the 14h District.

You must pre-register to participate; no walk-ins will be accepted. There are a limited number of spots open.

TO REGISTER AND RECEIVE LOCATION INFO, CONTACT THE 014 DISTRICT AT: CAPS.014District@chicagopolice.org

Updates

The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection is hosting their first community meeting regarding Lyon's Den on Thursday, March 2, 2023, at 12:00 PM. For access to the virtual meeting, please contact our office, the 2nd ward office, or BACP-Meetings@CityofChicago.org.

Year to date, incidents of violent crime in the 1st ward have decreased significantly compared to 2022, according to the Mayor's data portal. Alderman La Spata continues to support our violence prevention partners and the 12th and 14th districts to increase public safety in our Ward, and our office continues to have regular communications with our police districts to discuss resident concerns.

Community Alerts

The whole city continues to see a large spike in automobile thefts. Many victims are leaving their cars running and doors unlocked while they make a quick trip to a gas station or other store. Police advise never to leave the car unattended while it's running and to be sure to lock your doors every time you leave the vehicle. For owners of Kias and Hyundais, which are still the most common victims of automobile thefts, police advise to purchase a steering wheel lock device to deter theft and break-ins.

Week of January 30, 2023

Written and published February 2, 2023

Highlights from the February 1, 2023 CPD Media Release: In response to the recent surge of motor vehicle thefts and carjackings, the Chicago Police Department recently launched the Motor Vehicle Theft Task Force and added resources to the Vehicular Hijacking Task Force. Vehicular hijackings are down 8% over January 2022, while officers have made 211 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 48.5% increase year to date. Of the 36 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 67% have been juvenile offenders.

In addition, the Chicago Police Department and its Office of Community Policing joined forces with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) and the Community Safety Coordination Center (CSCC) to announce “Vehicle Safety Days,” a collaborative effort to fight motor vehicle theft. Vehicle Safety Days began Saturday, January 28 and will run every Saturday through February 18 in each of the 22 police districts. To deter thefts, steering wheel locks and other anti-theft devices will be distributed to vehicle owners, who may also opt to get a special, traceable marking etched onto their catalytic converter. Residents are also encouraged to get more information and safety tips from their local CAPS office and participate in the CSCC’s Home and Business Protection Program, from which they can get reimbursed for the cost of their vehicle’s GPS tracking device by registering it with the city.

Week of January 23, 2023

Written and published January 30, 2023

Alderman La Spata conducted ongoing public safety check-ins with the 12th and 14th District. Alderman La Spata met with the 14th District to discuss a shots fired incident in the area of Washtenaw between Logan and Diversey; the 14th District has provided some actionable strategies for improving safety in the area, and Alderman La Spata will support those initiatives.

The 1st Ward Office and Alderman La Spata also received ongoing updates about any public safety matters related to protests or civil unrest prior to the weekend of January 27th, 28th, and 29th, from both police districts and Office of Emergency Management and Communication. The 1st Ward Office never received any actionable information that needed to be shared.

Week of January 9, 2023

Written and published January 12, 2023

Public Safety Meeting

The 12th and 14th Districts are hosting a Public Safety Meeting on Tuesday, January 17th at 5:30pm. The meeting will be held in the auditorium of St. Mary's Hospital (2233 W Division St.) and will be largely focused on issues related to the Division St. corridor. This is a community meeting and thus is open and welcome to the public.

Updates

The 14th District and attorneys of DSTRKT Bar & Grill are currently in discussions to determine steps they can take to improve public safety at the establishment. The establishment so far has been cooperative in the process to increase safety for their patrons.

We continue to see high rates of automobile theft in the 1st Ward. Police are advising residents to purchase steering wheel lock devices in order to deter car break-ins and thefts.

Please stay tuned for the 14th District's next catalytic converter event! A date/time has yet to be officially scheduled, but it will likely be within the next month. More details to come at a later date.

Community Alerts

This alert gives notice to liquor businesses in the 14th District of recent burglaries in the overnight hours. The Offenders break the front glass windows of said businesses by means of a sledgehammer to gain entry. Once inside they steal money from cash registers, liquor from shelves, safes from offices, and cigarettes. Four unknown males, one heavyset, two medium build, one slender, wearing dark clothing, face masks, and gloves. Offenders were seen in an unknown black Jeep Cherokee in the first incident and then getting into a stolen Kia Sportage IL CU17259 that was parked in the alley in the second incident.

Week of January 2, 2023

Written and published January 5, 2023

Our office has received a number of communications from concerned residents regarding the most recent instances of crime that have occurred in our ward, and rightfully so. It has been a deeply troubling and traumatizing couple of weeks when it comes to crime and public safety in the 1st Ward. We would first like to provide an overview of our comprehensive strategy for public safety.

Direct Public Safety Approach: One of the ways our office approaches public safety is through open communication with the police districts in our ward. In addition to our weekly meetings with the police districts, in which we specifically go over crime statistics over the previous seven days and discuss prevention strategies, we are in regular communication with them about any resident concerns and protocol questions.

Our office takes our lead on public safety strategy directly from CPD; when they let us know about tactics that we can use to help improve safety, we tend to work with them to implement those tactics. For example, one of these strategies is to reduce the opportunity for crime, whether that be improving lighting in the area, altering the environment (such as the recently introduced trial parking ban on Division Street), and installing new cameras. If they say they need additional officers, we support them there by advocating for more resources to that district. Our office has never refused a request for funding a new camera or license plate reader and we have never refused a letter of support for a commander requesting additional personnel. We continue to work together to tackle existing crime as well as prevent future crime in our respective ward and districts.

Our office and the respective police districts in our ward also occasionally host community meetings with residents and business owners if it comes to our attention that there is an ongoing public safety concern. When we were getting complaints regarding the late-night scene on Division Street, the 14th district and our office arranged a community meeting with the business owners of that street, which was followed by a BEAT meeting with residents to address these concerns. This is additional to biannual meetings my office has co-hosted with the 14th district with our Milwaukee corridor businesses in Wicker Park and Logan Square. We have also participated in accountability meetings with businesses whenever there has been an incident of violence closely tied to them, including Diversey Bowl, the Point, and the former East Room. Likewise, we recently met with members of the Ukrainian Village Safety Advocates regarding the new business opening up on the same street to discuss similar worries. We are consistently amenable to holding these types of meetings when we feel they are necessary to improve an acute public safety situation.

Holistic Public Safety Approach: Rather than limiting the scope of public safety only to the Chicago Police Department, our office takes a more holistic approach that includes affordable housing, budget, homelessness prevention, and violence prevention investment. The alderman voted for the 2022 budget almost solely because of investments in violence prevention that he knew would be effective. Over $82 million were budgeted in multiple programs through Department of Family and Support Services and the Department of Public Health to prevent violence and promote youth engagement and job training ($9.5M for workforce development, $16M for community violence initiatives, $5.1M for youth violence interventions, and $10M for the new models of youth justice diversion). So far, however, the administration hasn't spent any of those dollars on what they are allocated for, so the alderman is still actively pushing for them to have accountability and utilize those resources which have been proven to reduce and prevent violence in the community.

Our office partners with several of these types of non-profit organizations such as READI, CRED, and ALSO, which are all dedicated to providing trauma-based mental health care coupled with job training and employment opportunities. Statistically, youth who participate in these types of programs are 40% less likely to be involved in violent crime in comparison with their neighbors. Our biggest challenge in this regard remains to be actually using the dollars that are already allocated and budgeted for this purpose. Our office also works with several organizations dedicated to homelessness prevention and outreach, which provide engagement and services like shelter and mental health resources to those experiencing homelessness.

Specific Public Safety Improvements: One of the specific, actionable steps that the alderman has taken to improve public safety in our ward is the introduction of the entertainment task force in the 14th district, which specifically monitors Division Street and Milwaukee Avenue late at night after bars are closing to limit instances of noise disturbances, partying/drinking in the streets, and potential violence that may occur as a result of large crowds after alcohol intake. Additionally, the alderman and 14th district introduced a trial parking ban along the 2000 and 2100 stretch of Division between the hours of 12am-5am Thursday-Sunday. This trial is an attempt to curb similar instances of partying on the street after bars have closed, which have caused public safety issues in the past such as brawls and issues related to pedestrian safety. This type of ban was recently introduced and codified along the 1400 and 1500 blocks of Milwaukee Avenue as a result of the corridor having become a hotspot for public partying and crime. Coupled with the improved street lighting on the 1500 block of Milwaukee, crime and public rowdiness have both seen a noticeable decrease in this area as a result.

To help combat thefts of catalytic converters, the CPD hosts catalytic converter events where residents can register and spray paint their converters to prevent theft. The next event for this will be held this weekend, January 7, 2023 from 8am-2pm. This event is specific to residents with vehicles registered in the 12th district. To register for this event or get more information, you can contact CAPS012DISTRICT@CHICAGOPOLICE.ORG.

Update on Recent Crimes: With regard to some of the particular instances of crime that we've seen, we would like to start off by providing some additional context regarding these crime waves. Concerning automobile thefts, the spike we've seen is directly linked to social media accounts that show how easy it is to steal Hyundais and Kias specifically. For example, the past few weeks while going over stats of auto thefts that occurred in the 14th district, the vast majority of those were either Kias or Hyundais. Both the 14th district and our office are recommending to residents that they buy a steering wheel lock device if residents own these types of vehicles, which costs around $30 and is proved to be very effective in preventing both auto thefts and car break ins. This social media trend is the reason we're actually seeing such an increase in auto thefts across the whole Midwest, not just the city of Chicago.

On a similar note, instances of vehicular hijackings now have their own special task force in order to most efficiently recover both the cars and the offenders. CPD has put together carjacking teams that are active in frequent areas of occurrence and occasionally use helicopters in the air to track vehicles. They also utilize technology such as Police Observation Device (POD) cameras that are installed in the public way to deter and record any criminal activity. Alderman La Spata has always supported installations of such cameras throughout the ward and written letters of support for the police district whenever one has been requested.

Unfortunately, the armed robbery crews are one of the main problems we are facing regarding public safety in our ward. Concerning the various sprees that occurred over the month of December, it is usually one team that commits robberies within minutes of each other. This means that while there are many offenses within a short time frame, there are not very many offenders. One particular group that committed several robberies in the span of a single night has since been caught and is being held by the police. The other groups are still being actively investigated. The general protocol for catching these offenders is to do traffic missions in the areas where the police are seeing the most instances of robberies. The purpose of these traffic missions is for high visibility in the area and because all these strings of robberies are being done in stolen vehicles, so they are all directly traffic-related. The squads used for these missions are mostly equipped with automatic license plate readers (ALPR's) mounted on the roof of the cars. These ALPR's allow the police to gather intel on the stolen vehicles' locations electronically and monitor police cameras for them across the city. They then use this intel to disseminate info about the offenders to other squads, since these robberies are being committed in multiple districts, and dispatch the officers in the field.

While we cannot yet share any specific information about the recent shootings at Mariano’s due to it being an ongoing and active investigation, the 12th district has said that there is no reason to believe these crimes are being directed to the general public; rather, they are specifically related to people engaged in illicit behavior. The 12th district does have a strategy and is actively working on catching the offenders, but for the sake of the success of that strategy they cannot share that information with the public. We recognize that the lack of information at this time may be frustrating for residents, but when we withhold information like this it's in order to ensure that these strategies are effective, not to disregard the importance of public safety.

One of the things the alderman is currently doing legislatively to help mitigate instances of violent crime is advocating for government bodies other than the police to have enforcement authority for victimless crimes such as parking violations, noise violations, and mental health crises. This will free up the police force's time so that they can combat more violent crimes like armed robberies, instead of splitting their time and focusing on more petty crimes. It will also help address less dire complaints that continue to be among the forefront of our public safety calls in a more expeditious manner.

If anyone would like to have a further discussion regarding public safety in our ward, please do not hesitate to contact The 1st Ward Office or schedule an appointment for ward night to speak with the alderman directly.

Week of May 1, 2023

Written and published May 3, 2023

Highlights from CPD's April Media Release

This April, the Chicago Police Department's Vehicular Hijacking Task Force was awarded the 2023 Mayor’s Medal of Honor, honoring the collaborative work of CPD officers, the Cook County Sheriff's Office and Illinois State Police to combat carjackings across the city. Compared to this time last year, vehicular hijackings are down 25.5%. Officers have made 705 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 49% increase year to date. Of the 80 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 69% have been juvenile offenders.

CPD recently extended the public comment period for its draft search warrant directives through May 31, 2023. Follow the link to review the draft directive and offer feedback on policies as they are being developed. Once the comment period closes, the input gathered will be used to inform the final policies. This month, the Department closed public comment on policies regarding People with Disabilities and Interactions with Youth and Children.

North Side Community Forum on the Police Superintendent Search on May 4, 2023

The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) invites you to join them at their upcoming North Side Community Forum to be held on Thursday, May 4, 2023 at Roosevelt High School (3436 W Wilson Avenue) from 6pm-8pm. Residents can RSVP here: bit.ly/43U1bpQ.

Entry Doors: Entry doors are at the corner of Kimball and Wilson (Door 13) Ramp for ADA- (Door 9 on the corner of Wilson and St. Louis)

Parking: Street parking available on Wilson Avenue Parking lot available in lot north of school, bound by Leland and St. Louis (Enter on Leland)

If you require language interpretation, including accommodations for deaf and hard of hearing residents, please contact Commission staff at communitycommission@cityofchicago.org.

Updates

There were 0 shots fired incidents in the 1st Ward last week.

There were 7 incidents of Motor Vehicle Theft on the 14th District side of the 1st Ward. Of these thefts, 5 were Hyundais, 1 was a Kia, and one was a Jeep Cherokee. These are the 3 most common vehicles stolen across the city. If you are a 14th District resident, the District CAPS Office has free clubs available for owners of Kias and Hyundais to deter theft. If you are a Jeep owner, make sure to keep your car keys as far away from the vehicle as possible while not driving; offenders have a device specifically targetted toward Jeeps that reprograms the owners' keys if left within a certain distance of the car, even if the keys are inside the home. This device allows them to steal the car without actually breaking into it while simultaneously reprogramming the owners' keys not to work.

Week of April 24, 2023

Written and published April 28, 2023

14th District Police Council Meetings

Announcing first-ever public monthly meetings of newly elected 14th Police District Council!

The District Council will gather input from the community about public safety and police accountability issues and work with the city to implement new policies based on those concerns, ideas, and demands.

• Saturday, May 13th, 1-3pm - Wicker Park Library (1701 N Milwaukee)

• Saturday, June 17th, 1-3pm - Logan Square Library (3030 W Fullerton)

• Saturday, July 1st, 1-3pm - Logan Square Library (3030 W Fullerton)

And planning to continue on the first Saturday of each month.

At this first meeting, the District Council will introduce themselves, their roles, and the purpose of the District Councils as part of the new Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability. They will pass some preliminary motions to get started, and most importantly, hear feedback, questions, concerns, and comments from the community about public safety, police accountability and the District Council.

Additional round table discussions to listen and gather more input will be held by the Community Engagement Coordinator on:

• Monday, May 15th, 6-7pm at the Humboldt Park Library (1605 N Troy)

• Monday, June 5th, 6-7pm at the Humboldt Park Library (1605 N Troy)

Updates

A juvenile offender was arrested on April 26, 2023, in the 5100 block of S. Wentworth. He was identified as one of the offenders who, on March 13, 2023, took personal possessions from a 26-year-old female victim at the CTA Division Blue Line Platform on the 1200 block of N Milwaukee in the 1st Ward's 14th District. The offender was placed into custody and charged accordingly. No additional information is available at this time.

Last week there was a string of robberies in the 14th District in which 1 team committed 3 robberies within a 20 minute span all around 3am.

While Kia and Hyundai owners are the most frequent victims of auto thefts, Jeep Cherokees and Dodges are the 3rd most common vehicles stolen currently. If you are a Jeep owner, police recommend to keep your key as far away from your vehicle as possible when not driving. If the key is within a certain distance, even if it's inside your home, offenders are able to use a device that can reprogram the key to steal the car without actually breaking into it and will cause the owners' keys to no longer work.

There were 0 shots fired incidents in the 1st Ward last week.

Week of April 17, 2023

Written and published April 26, 2023

Updates

There were 2 Shots Fired incidents in the 12th District this week - one in Beat 1213 and one in Beat 1221. There were no injuries, and both calls were coded out as the police did not recover any shell casings or other evidence to investigate. There were 2 incidents in the 14th District, in Beats 1424 and 1434. There were no injuries or shell casings found in these incidents either.

There was one armed robbery in the Ward (Beat 1212), but we have no actionable updates at this time.

The 1st Ward saw a wave of burglaries across the 12th District during this week, in which offenders broke into several businesses and stole money from cash registers after closing. We've reached out to all our businesses in the Ward to advise them to clear out their cash registers every night to avoid theft.

Motor Vehicle Thefts continue to be one of the most common incidents across the Ward. The biggest concentration of these thefts is in Beats 1422, 1423, and 1432, and the majority of victims are still owners of Hyundais and Kias. The 14th District has free steering wheel lock devices available for any 14th District resident and will be flyering those beats to encourage residents to pick them up from the District.

There were no Vehicular Hijackings in the Ward last week.

On April 18, a juvenile was arrested by members of the Vehicle Hijacking Task Force and charged with Vehicle Hijacking (2), Robbery, Aggravated Battery, and Possession of a Stolen Vehicle. He hijacked the first vehicle in the 14th District part of the 1st Ward, and hijacked another vehicle in the 12th District just outside our Ward boundary.

Week of April 10, 2023

Business Alert

Please be aware that the 12th District has had a few strings of Burglaries that took place on April 3rd , April 7th , April 9th and April 10th at the businesses of Roots Pizza Restaurant, Output Sport Bar and Lounge and Little Victories Restaurant. The cash registers were burglarized and police advise not to keep too much cash in the registers around closing time.

Week of April 3, 2023

Written and pblished April 3, 2023

Highlights from CPD's March Media Release

Vehicular Hijacking and Motor Vehicle Thefts: This month, the Chicago Police Department joined Illinois State Police for the Illinois Secretary of State’s announcement of grant funding that will help combat vehicular hijackings and motor vehicle thefts. CPD will receive $1.4 million to expand on already existing efforts to strengthen investigations and provide anti-theft resources to community members. Vehicular hijackings are down 28.6% compared to this time last year. Officers have made 525 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 44.2% increase year to date. Of the 67 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 73% have been juvenile offenders.

Recruitment Efforts: The Department launched new programs to rehire former CPD officers and offer lateral hires for currently employed sworn officers from other law enforcement agencies. The rehire program will allow for sworn officers who have previously worked at CPD to come back under an expedited process. The lateral hire program establishes a process for sworn officers from other law enforcement agencies to join CPD while receiving credit for their law enforcement experience.

If interested in reading the full media release, you can do so here.

Highlights from the March Monthly Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) Meeting

Save the Date(s)!

The CCPSA is in the process of searching for a new Police Superintendent. They plan to hold four (4) community meetings before hiring on the below dates:

• April 11 at the Kehrein Center for the Arts (5628 W Washington Blvd)
• April 19 - Location TBD
• April 25 (virtual) - https://bit.ly/42UNfeE
• May 4 - Location TBD

If you would like to express the qualifications you expect the Commission to look for in the candidates, have any issues you'd like to bring forth regarding the applications process, or recommendations on what you would like to see with the next Superintendent, please attend one of the meetings and voice your thoughts! These meetings are open to community members and police officers alike. The Commission will be there to listen and gather insights on what qualities, characteristics, and skills residents of our city believe we need in a Superintendent.

Criminal Enterprise Information System Update: Last November CPD proposed the Criminal Enterprise Information System as a special order to collect/store information about people identified as potentially engaging in gang activity. Before the Commission makes the final draft, you can read the draft policy on the "What Policies is the Commission Working on?" page on their website and provide feedback.

The next CCPSA meeting will be held on April 27, 2023 at 6:30pm. If you'd like to attend either virtually or in-person, contact the 1st Ward office for more information.

CPS's Safe Haven Program

For over 10 years, the Safe Haven Program has kept CPS kids safe, healthy, and active during spring and summer breaks as well as after school. The program incorporates social-emotional learning, academic assistance, and fun. Additionally, students get healthy meals and snacks at no cost to their families. Sites are open from Monday, April 3 to Friday, April 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Click here for a list of Safe Haven sites that will be open over spring break.

Written and published April 5, 2023

Edited with additional information April 6, 2023

Updates

This morning, the 1st Ward saw a violent crime spree involving 2 carjackings and 4 robberies. The Alderman has been in regular contact with 14th District command to receive any actionable and shareable updates. Thus far, CPD has located 2 stolen vehicles, and juveniles have been arrested in posession of one of the stolen vehicles. They have been charged with 2 counts of Vehicle Hijacking, 2 counts of Armed Robbery, and 1 count of Attempted Roberry. We will remain in contact with the 14th District for additional updates.

Week of March 27, 2023

Written and published March 30-31, 2023

Updates

While violent crime is still down overall in the ward (zero shootings year to date, carjackings down 58%), robberies are now up 11% with 20 incidents in the last 28 days. The 1st Ward Office is working on mapping these incidents to request special attention in these areas.

Business Alert

This alert gives notice to businesses in the 14th District of recent related armed robberies, thefts, and attempted armed robberies to commercial businesses. The offender entered businesses and broke the glass of a display case and then took multiple items and fled out of the fire escape of the business. In one incident, the offender attempted to take money from the register, but was confronted by staff and threatened them.

Incident times and locations:

• 1600 block of West Division St on March 26, 2023 at 8:44am
• 1200 block of N Milwaukee Ave on March 26, 2023 at 9:02am
• 1300 block of N Paulina Ave on March 26, 2023 at 9:25am

Offender Description: Single male dressed in all black with a black ski mask, driving a Gray Chevy 4-Door Pickup Truck

Community Alert

This alert gives notice to residents in the 14th District of recent related armed robberies. The unknown offenders approached the victims displayed handguns and demanded the victim's personal property. The offenders then fled in a blue colored Hyundai, with broken passenger window.

Incident times and locations:

• 1200 Block of North Wolcott Ave on March 27, 2023 at 3:00 AM
• 2000 Block of West Crystal St on March 27, 2023 at 3:02 AM

Offender Description: Multiple males, 15-21 years of age, 5'11-6'01, skinny wearing dark color clothing and black ski masks armed with handguns

Week of March 13, 2023

Written and published March 17, 2023

CPD's Racial Equity Action Plan

The Chicago Police Department is currently developing a Racial Equity Action Plan (REAP). This is part of a citywide effort aligned to Municipal Code 2-4-100 that requires all city departments to create a Racial Equity Action Plan. All City departments are responsible for creating and reporting progress on their REAPs.

The REAP will be a three-year roadmap outlining strategies and actions that the CPD will take to close racial equity gaps, ensure equitable and constitutional policing services for all Chicagoan's, and measure progress toward a more equitable City of Chicago and Chicago Police Department.

The Chicago Police Department is inviting the public to provide feedback to us through a survey on what you believe should be included in our REAP. Currently, the first draft of the REAP is being developed. We expect to publish the draft in early May 2023 and will invite the community to review the draft plan and provide additional feedback on it then.

Click here to begin the survey. Responses to this survey are entirely anonymous and all questions are optional.

This survey will be open until April 9th, 2023.

Updates

There were 0 incidents of shots fired in the 1st Ward last week.

There has been a sharp increase in armed robberies in the 1st Ward (7 total instances last week). It is believed that the majority of these are related and committed by the same offenders. Most of these incidents occurred between the hours of midnight and 6am, and the offenders are using a stolen white Mazda SUV to commit these robberies. If you are the victim of this type of crime, police advise to comply with their requests and to try to observe identifying characteristics of the offenders (shoes, tattoos/markings, etc.) and the car they use (license plate number, dents), if possible.

Week of March 6, 2023

Written and published March 9, 2023

Community Alerts

This alert gives notice to residents of the 12th and 14th Districts of recent armed robberies, in which the victims are approached by the offenders who display handguns, point the guns at the victims, and demand their personal property (wallet, money, laptops and cellphone). The offenders are seen driving a 2020 Hyundai Tucson Illinois Registration: CV47270. Maroon or Burgundy in color. That vehicle appears to have its passenger side rear window broken out and what appears to be a jacket or sweatshirt securing the window.

St. Patrick's Day Notices

Residents and visitors are encouraged to download the new Chicago OEMC App as a public safety tool providing public safety information, preparedness tips, emergency alerts, St. Patrick's Day parade day weather information, and more in the palm of your hand. The app is now available through the Apple App and Google Play stores. To immediately download, visit the website Chicago.gov/oemc.

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) will monitor events in collaboration with public safety partners. OEMC will issue any alerts and notifications needed to keep residents and attendees up to date on weather conditions and emergencies. Sign up for NotifyChicago alerts at NotifyChicago.org. OEMC also issues TEXT alerts for lakefront notices, issues affecting businesses or COVID-19 updates:

CHILAKE: For lakefront notices, TEXT “CHILAKE” to 7-8-0-1-5

CHIBIZ: For alerts affecting businesses, TEXT “CHIBIZ” to 6-7-2-8-3

COVID: Get COVID-19 updates by TEXTING “COVID19” to 6-7-2-8-3

Survivor Crisis Fund

The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence is excited to share that their Survivor Crisis Fund is now accepting applications! On Thursday, March 9th at 10:00AM The Network launched The Survivor Crisis Fund application at https://the-network.org/survivor-fund/ to the public. One-time funding, at this point, will be available for survivors who are residents of Chicago, Cook County and DuPage County (as rental assistance) OR for residents of Chicago (as a $1000 payment).

They will accept a limited number of applications and then they will close down the portal to begin the review process. Once these applications are all reviewed,they will open up the application portal again.

To learn more, you can join one of their info sessions and check out their FAQ page.

Week of February 27, 2023

Written and published March 3, 2023

1st Lyon's Den Community Meeting

BACP held the first community meeting regarding public safety issues on Lyon's Den and Division St. on March 2, 2023. If you were unable to attend the meeting and would like to discuss the takeaways, you can email info@the1stward.com for more information. The next meeting will be held on Thursday, April 13, 2023 at 11am. If you need the link to attend the next meeting, please let us know and we can send it to you.

Highlights from CPD's February Media Release

Vehicular hijackings are down 23% compared to this time last year, while we have seen an increase in autombile thefts, particularly for Kia and Hyundai owners. In reponse to the city's uptick in automobile thefts, CPD recently launched a specific Motor Vehicle Theft Task Force. Officers have made 380 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 59.6% increase year to date. Of the 58 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 69% have been juvenile offenders.

CPD has opened up multiple draft directives for public comment. The People with Disabilities draft directive remains open for public comment through March 31, 2023 as well as the revised Search Warrants – Draft Review.

Highlights from the February Monthly Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) Meeting

The Commission is still looking for members for its Non-Citizen Advisory Council. The purpose of these positions is to provide internal support that better informs the Commission’s work while connecting them to immigrants in the city. Any Chicagoan can apply as long as they meet the following criteria:

• Residing in city
• Noncitizen or advocate of noncitizens
• Share in goal to improve public safety

You can apply directly to Commissioners Gomez. Here is a link to the application.

--

La Comision busca nuevos miembros para el Consejo Consultivo de Inmigrantes No-ciudadanos. El proposito de esta posicion es proveer apoyo interno para ayudar con la mision de la Comision, mientras que conecta a la Comision con los inmigrantes en la ciudad. Cada residente en Chicago puede aplicar con tal de que satisfechan lo siguiente:

• Viven en la ciudad de Chicago
• No son ciudadanos O son defensores de la gente que no es ciudadana
• Tienen la meta de mejorar la seguridad publica

Para llenar una aplicacion en espanol, haz click aqui. Se puede enviar la aplicacion directamente a Comisionado Gomez.

Community Alerts

This alert gives notice to the residents of the 012th and 014th Districts of recent related robbery incidents. In each occurrence, three to four armed offenders approached victims on the public way and demanded the victims' property by threatening use of force. Upon taking possession of the victims’ personal belongings, the offenders entered into and fled in a waiting stolen vehicle.

Offender Description: The offenders are described as 3-4 African American males, 20-25 years of age, wearing dark clothing and ski masks. The offenders are armed with semi-automatic handguns.

Week of February 20, 2023

Written and published February 23, 2023

Catalytic Converters

The 1st Ward Office has some extra catalytic converters for residents with vehicles registered in the 14th District. These converters are marked with an identifying "fingerprint" that allows police to track the vehicle in the instance of theft. If you are interested in picking up a registered catalytic converter, please come to the 1st Ward Office at 1958 N Milwaukee Ave and bring your ID as proof you live in the 14th District. We have a limited supply available, so they will be first come first serve.

Updates

The 1st Ward saw no robberies, no burglaries, and no homicides this past week.

We do continue to see an uptick in Motor Vehicle Thefts, specifically for Kias and Hyundais. If you are the owner of one of these vehicles, police encourage you to buy a club or steering wheel lock device to deter theft. If you own a Kia or Hyundai and are in need one of these devices, the 14th District CAPS office has some extra clubs available. Please call their office at 312-744-8290 beforehand to ask if any are still available. When picking up your club, bring an ID showing you live in the 14th District and vehicle registration proving you own a KIA or Hyundai.

Week of February 6, 2023

Written and published February 8, 2023

14th District Vehicle Safety Day

The 14th District is hosting a vehicle safety day on Saturday, February 18, 2023. Come register and mark your vehicle’s catalytic converter to help prevent theft, learn about the Cook County Sherriff’s Office and CPD vehicle tracking program, apply for the Chicago Community Safety Coordination Center (CSCC) vehicle GPS reimbursement program, receive giveaways, and more.

This event is available only for vehicles registered in the 14h District.

You must pre-register to participate; no walk-ins will be accepted. There are a limited number of spots open.

TO REGISTER AND RECEIVE LOCATION INFO, CONTACT THE 014 DISTRICT AT: CAPS.014District@chicagopolice.org

Updates

The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection is hosting their first community meeting regarding Lyon's Den on Thursday, March 2, 2023, at 12:00 PM. For access to the virtual meeting, please contact our office, the 2nd ward office, or BACP-Meetings@CityofChicago.org.

Year to date, incidents of violent crime in the 1st ward have decreased significantly compared to 2022, according to the Mayor's data portal. Alderman La Spata continues to support our violence prevention partners and the 12th and 14th districts to increase public safety in our Ward, and our office continues to have regular communications with our police districts to discuss resident concerns.

Community Alerts

The whole city continues to see a large spike in automobile thefts. Many victims are leaving their cars running and doors unlocked while they make a quick trip to a gas station or other store. Police advise never to leave the car unattended while it's running and to be sure to lock your doors every time you leave the vehicle. For owners of Kias and Hyundais, which are still the most common victims of automobile thefts, police advise to purchase a steering wheel lock device to deter theft and break-ins.

Week of January 30, 2023

Written and published February 2, 2023

Highlights from the February 1, 2023 CPD Media Release: In response to the recent surge of motor vehicle thefts and carjackings, the Chicago Police Department recently launched the Motor Vehicle Theft Task Force and added resources to the Vehicular Hijacking Task Force. Vehicular hijackings are down 8% over January 2022, while officers have made 211 motor vehicle-related arrests, a 48.5% increase year to date. Of the 36 arrests for vehicular hijacking, 67% have been juvenile offenders.

In addition, the Chicago Police Department and its Office of Community Policing joined forces with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) and the Community Safety Coordination Center (CSCC) to announce “Vehicle Safety Days,” a collaborative effort to fight motor vehicle theft. Vehicle Safety Days began Saturday, January 28 and will run every Saturday through February 18 in each of the 22 police districts. To deter thefts, steering wheel locks and other anti-theft devices will be distributed to vehicle owners, who may also opt to get a special, traceable marking etched onto their catalytic converter. Residents are also encouraged to get more information and safety tips from their local CAPS office and participate in the CSCC’s Home and Business Protection Program, from which they can get reimbursed for the cost of their vehicle’s GPS tracking device by registering it with the city.

Week of January 23, 2023

Written and published January 30, 2023

Alderman La Spata conducted ongoing public safety check-ins with the 12th and 14th District. Alderman La Spata met with the 14th District to discuss a shots fired incident in the area of Washtenaw between Logan and Diversey; the 14th District has provided some actionable strategies for improving safety in the area, and Alderman La Spata will support those initiatives.

The 1st Ward Office and Alderman La Spata also received ongoing updates about any public safety matters related to protests or civil unrest prior to the weekend of January 27th, 28th, and 29th, from both police districts and Office of Emergency Management and Communication. The 1st Ward Office never received any actionable information that needed to be shared.

Week of January 9, 2023

Written and published January 12, 2023

Public Safety Meeting

The 12th and 14th Districts are hosting a Public Safety Meeting on Tuesday, January 17th at 5:30pm. The meeting will be held in the auditorium of St. Mary's Hospital (2233 W Division St.) and will be largely focused on issues related to the Division St. corridor. This is a community meeting and thus is open and welcome to the public.

Updates

The 14th District and attorneys of DSTRKT Bar & Grill are currently in discussions to determine steps they can take to improve public safety at the establishment. The establishment so far has been cooperative in the process to increase safety for their patrons.

We continue to see high rates of automobile theft in the 1st Ward. Police are advising residents to purchase steering wheel lock devices in order to deter car break-ins and thefts.

Please stay tuned for the 14th District's next catalytic converter event! A date/time has yet to be officially scheduled, but it will likely be within the next month. More details to come at a later date.

Community Alerts

This alert gives notice to liquor businesses in the 14th District of recent burglaries in the overnight hours. The Offenders break the front glass windows of said businesses by means of a sledgehammer to gain entry. Once inside they steal money from cash registers, liquor from shelves, safes from offices, and cigarettes. Four unknown males, one heavyset, two medium build, one slender, wearing dark clothing, face masks, and gloves. Offenders were seen in an unknown black Jeep Cherokee in the first incident and then getting into a stolen Kia Sportage IL CU17259 that was parked in the alley in the second incident.

Week of January 2, 2023

Written and published January 5, 2023

Our office has received a number of communications from concerned residents regarding the most recent instances of crime that have occurred in our ward, and rightfully so. It has been a deeply troubling and traumatizing couple of weeks when it comes to crime and public safety in the 1st Ward. We would first like to provide an overview of our comprehensive strategy for public safety.

Direct Public Safety Approach: One of the ways our office approaches public safety is through open communication with the police districts in our ward. In addition to our weekly meetings with the police districts, in which we specifically go over crime statistics over the previous seven days and discuss prevention strategies, we are in regular communication with them about any resident concerns and protocol questions.

Our office takes our lead on public safety strategy directly from CPD; when they let us know about tactics that we can use to help improve safety, we tend to work with them to implement those tactics. For example, one of these strategies is to reduce the opportunity for crime, whether that be improving lighting in the area, altering the environment (such as the recently introduced trial parking ban on Division Street), and installing new cameras. If they say they need additional officers, we support them there by advocating for more resources to that district. Our office has never refused a request for funding a new camera or license plate reader and we have never refused a letter of support for a commander requesting additional personnel. We continue to work together to tackle existing crime as well as prevent future crime in our respective ward and districts.

Our office and the respective police districts in our ward also occasionally host community meetings with residents and business owners if it comes to our attention that there is an ongoing public safety concern. When we were getting complaints regarding the late-night scene on Division Street, the 14th district and our office arranged a community meeting with the business owners of that street, which was followed by a BEAT meeting with residents to address these concerns. This is additional to biannual meetings my office has co-hosted with the 14th district with our Milwaukee corridor businesses in Wicker Park and Logan Square. We have also participated in accountability meetings with businesses whenever there has been an incident of violence closely tied to them, including Diversey Bowl, the Point, and the former East Room. Likewise, we recently met with members of the Ukrainian Village Safety Advocates regarding the new business opening up on the same street to discuss similar worries. We are consistently amenable to holding these types of meetings when we feel they are necessary to improve an acute public safety situation.

Holistic Public Safety Approach: Rather than limiting the scope of public safety only to the Chicago Police Department, our office takes a more holistic approach that includes affordable housing, budget, homelessness prevention, and violence prevention investment. The alderman voted for the 2022 budget almost solely because of investments in violence prevention that he knew would be effective. Over $82 million were budgeted in multiple programs through Department of Family and Support Services and the Department of Public Health to prevent violence and promote youth engagement and job training ($9.5M for workforce development, $16M for community violence initiatives, $5.1M for youth violence interventions, and $10M for the new models of youth justice diversion). So far, however, the administration hasn't spent any of those dollars on what they are allocated for, so the alderman is still actively pushing for them to have accountability and utilize those resources which have been proven to reduce and prevent violence in the community.

Our office partners with several of these types of non-profit organizations such as READI, CRED, and ALSO, which are all dedicated to providing trauma-based mental health care coupled with job training and employment opportunities. Statistically, youth who participate in these types of programs are 40% less likely to be involved in violent crime in comparison with their neighbors. Our biggest challenge in this regard remains to be actually using the dollars that are already allocated and budgeted for this purpose. Our office also works with several organizations dedicated to homelessness prevention and outreach, which provide engagement and services like shelter and mental health resources to those experiencing homelessness.

Specific Public Safety Improvements: One of the specific, actionable steps that the alderman has taken to improve public safety in our ward is the introduction of the entertainment task force in the 14th district, which specifically monitors Division Street and Milwaukee Avenue late at night after bars are closing to limit instances of noise disturbances, partying/drinking in the streets, and potential violence that may occur as a result of large crowds after alcohol intake. Additionally, the alderman and 14th district introduced a trial parking ban along the 2000 and 2100 stretch of Division between the hours of 12am-5am Thursday-Sunday. This trial is an attempt to curb similar instances of partying on the street after bars have closed, which have caused public safety issues in the past such as brawls and issues related to pedestrian safety. This type of ban was recently introduced and codified along the 1400 and 1500 blocks of Milwaukee Avenue as a result of the corridor having become a hotspot for public partying and crime. Coupled with the improved street lighting on the 1500 block of Milwaukee, crime and public rowdiness have both seen a noticeable decrease in this area as a result.

To help combat thefts of catalytic converters, the CPD hosts catalytic converter events where residents can register and spray paint their converters to prevent theft. The next event for this will be held this weekend, January 7, 2023 from 8am-2pm. This event is specific to residents with vehicles registered in the 12th district. To register for this event or get more information, you can contact CAPS012DISTRICT@CHICAGOPOLICE.ORG.

Update on Recent Crimes: With regard to some of the particular instances of crime that we've seen, we would like to start off by providing some additional context regarding these crime waves. Concerning automobile thefts, the spike we've seen is directly linked to social media accounts that show how easy it is to steal Hyundais and Kias specifically. For example, the past few weeks while going over stats of auto thefts that occurred in the 14th district, the vast majority of those were either Kias or Hyundais. Both the 14th district and our office are recommending to residents that they buy a steering wheel lock device if residents own these types of vehicles, which costs around $30 and is proved to be very effective in preventing both auto thefts and car break ins. This social media trend is the reason we're actually seeing such an increase in auto thefts across the whole Midwest, not just the city of Chicago.

On a similar note, instances of vehicular hijackings now have their own special task force in order to most efficiently recover both the cars and the offenders. CPD has put together carjacking teams that are active in frequent areas of occurrence and occasionally use helicopters in the air to track vehicles. They also utilize technology such as Police Observation Device (POD) cameras that are installed in the public way to deter and record any criminal activity. Alderman La Spata has always supported installations of such cameras throughout the ward and written letters of support for the police district whenever one has been requested.

Unfortunately, the armed robbery crews are one of the main problems we are facing regarding public safety in our ward. Concerning the various sprees that occurred over the month of December, it is usually one team that commits robberies within minutes of each other. This means that while there are many offenses within a short time frame, there are not very many offenders. One particular group that committed several robberies in the span of a single night has since been caught and is being held by the police. The other groups are still being actively investigated. The general protocol for catching these offenders is to do traffic missions in the areas where the police are seeing the most instances of robberies. The purpose of these traffic missions is for high visibility in the area and because all these strings of robberies are being done in stolen vehicles, so they are all directly traffic-related. The squads used for these missions are mostly equipped with automatic license plate readers (ALPR's) mounted on the roof of the cars. These ALPR's allow the police to gather intel on the stolen vehicles' locations electronically and monitor police cameras for them across the city. They then use this intel to disseminate info about the offenders to other squads, since these robberies are being committed in multiple districts, and dispatch the officers in the field.

While we cannot yet share any specific information about the recent shootings at Mariano’s due to it being an ongoing and active investigation, the 12th district has said that there is no reason to believe these crimes are being directed to the general public; rather, they are specifically related to people engaged in illicit behavior. The 12th district does have a strategy and is actively working on catching the offenders, but for the sake of the success of that strategy they cannot share that information with the public. We recognize that the lack of information at this time may be frustrating for residents, but when we withhold information like this it's in order to ensure that these strategies are effective, not to disregard the importance of public safety.

One of the things the alderman is currently doing legislatively to help mitigate instances of violent crime is advocating for government bodies other than the police to have enforcement authority for victimless crimes such as parking violations, noise violations, and mental health crises. This will free up the police force's time so that they can combat more violent crimes like armed robberies, instead of splitting their time and focusing on more petty crimes. It will also help address less dire complaints that continue to be among the forefront of our public safety calls in a more expeditious manner.

If anyone would like to have a further discussion regarding public safety in our ward, please do not hesitate to contact The 1st Ward Office or schedule an appointment for ward night to speak with the alderman directly.