The Associated Press
CHICAGO- Chicago police officials are aware of corruption and misconduct in the department but don’t do enough to stop it, according to a report by an expert on internal police affairs.
The department’s top officials have perpetuated ''a practice of indifference’’ to corruption that ''makes officers who engage in misconduct feel protected,’' says the report by consultant Lou Reiter, a former deputy chief of the Los Angeles Police Department.
Police officials contend Reiter’s criticism is based on limited knowledge of the department, and doesn’t consider current policy reforms aimed at blocking corruption and abuse.
The department is under increasing pressure to deal with corruption allegations. In July, two special prosecutors issued a report claiming officers in one unit tortured suspects in the 1980s. And in September, four members of the Special Operations Section were charged with robbery, kidnapping and false arrests.
Reiter completed his report this summer for two federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms agents who are suing the city. A Chicago Tribune story on the document was published Wednesday.
The ATF agents, a husband and wife, say their careers and credibility were attacked when they tried to blow the whistle on convicted former police officer Joseph Miedzianowski. Instead of investigating Miedzianowski, internal affairs officials targeted them, the agents claim. It took years before federal prosecutors were able to indict Miedzianowski on drug charges; he is serving a life prison term.