Police Protest Superintendent, Demand Resignation

By aaroncynic in News on Sep 15, 2010 7:00PM

Chicago Police officers protested today demanding the resignation of Superintendent Jody Weis and an increase in manpower. More than 300 officers marched for about two hours at police headquarters with signs and slogans that read things like “More police No Weis” and “In case of emergency, run like hell.” The Fraternal Order of Police and many officers believe that Weis is out of touch with rank and file officers, as he was a career FBI agent before Mayor Daley hired him to polish the department’s image in 2008. Weis and the FOP have been at odds all week, each penning critical letters of one another.

In an interview with the Tribune, one officer pointed out the need for more officers on the street, rather than things like cameras overhead, saying “The trend is moving more towards technology and away from the boots on the ground type strategy. We don't even have enough people to observe the technology that we're using.” Another remarked on officer safety, saying “If the police aren't safe--look at how many cops have been killed-how is it for the average citizen? How are they supposed to protect themselves?"

Some potential mayoral candidates seized the opportunity to weigh in. State Senator James Meeks wants a sit down meeting between Weis and FOP President Mark Donahue, while Alderman Bob Fioretti (2nd) said if he were elected mayor, he would not allow Weis to stay on. Weis’ contract will expire March 1st.