A New (Old) Approach to Crimefighting In Chicago
The city's new top cop is implementing a more traditional policing approach, by stressing the need for resources to be in the hands of district commanders to use as they see fit in the neighborhoods they oversee.
Photo: yooperann (Flickr).
New Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy is shifting the agency's approach to crimefighting by giving district supervisors more patrol resources and asking for more accountability in return.
To put more boots on the ground, the department is shifting 150 additional officers to patrol duties, Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced Sunday. The 150 will be in addition to the 500 cops shifted from desk assignments in mid-May.
The redeployment of the initial 500 officers marks a sharp departure from the management style of Superintendent Jody Weis, whose contract was not renewed after three years leading the department.
McCarthy is shifting the department's patrol deployment strategy away from Weis' reliance on two specialized units - the Mobile Strike Force and Targeted Response Unit - to parachute into areas of the city where crime spikes have been identified. Weis pulled patrol officers to beef up those units.
The city's new top cop is implementing a more traditional policing approach, by stressing the need for resources to be in the hands of district commanders to use as they see fit in the neighborhoods they oversee.
The new resources come with increased scrutiny.
Superintendent McCarthy, who was confirmed by the city council Wednesday, began weekly CompStat meetings the following day. The meeting began with Superintendent McCarthy grilling Englewood District Cmdr. Anthony Carothers about a spike in shootings in Englewood in May compared with 2010.
Large-size crime maps loaded with statistics were projected on screens during the meeting at police headquaters.
McCarthy has brought a similar combative, coaching style of crime-report analysis that he used when he implemented CompStat with the NYPD.
Superintendent McCarthy will make $260,004 a year, or about $49,996 less than his predecessor Jody Weis. However, the new superintendent is making about $43,794 more than newly-seated Mayor Rahm Emanuel, reports the Chicago Sun-Times.
Related:
More Blog Posts
Preventing Heat Injury in Police K-9s
In the relentless heat of summer and even early fall in some parts of the country, officers face the important task of protecting their K-9 partners while working in sweltering temperatures. Recognizing changes in a dog’s behavior is the key.
Read More →
Why Your Agency Needs to Attend the ILEETA Conference
ILEETA is a complete resource for trainers to address trainers' needs. Its mission is to enhance the skills and safety of criminal justice practitioners while fostering stronger and safer communities.
Read More →
IACP 2023: New Training Products
Technologies for improving law enforcement training and training management were some of the highlights at this year's show.
Read More →
Initial Results Released from MSP 2024 Police Vehicle Testing
The 2024 pursuit-rated vehicles--all pickup trucks or SUVs, including two battery electric models the Chevrolet Blazer EV AWD and Ford Mustang Mach-E--were put through their paces.
Read More →
Officer Safety Considerations Related to Alternative-Fuel Vehicles
As more alternative-fuel and hybrid vehicles hit the road, police and other first responders need to understand that they are no more dangerous than conventional vehicles. However, there are certain safety considerations every cop should know.
Read More →
Garmont Working to Grow LE Market Presence
Garmont Tactical has found wide acceptance by military boot buyers, but now the company is trying to better respond to the needs of police officers. Many cops now are not fans of 8-inch boots, so Garmont is adapting.
Read More →
Publisher’s Note: Our Commitment to You
Through our magazine and website and our Police Technology eXchange event, we promise to provide you with information and access to resources to help you do your job safer and better.
Read More →
10 Tips for Responding to Mental Health Crisis Calls
The Harris County Sheriff's Office is a model for other agencies that want to learn about crisis intervention and mental health crisis response. Sgt. Jose Gomez shares the story of their programs and provides 10 tips for mental health crisis call response
Read More →
5 Things to Know When Buying Concealed-Carry or Off-Duty Holsters
Mike Barham, of Galco Holsters, shares five important considerations to keep in mind when you buy off-duty concealed or plain-clothes carry holsters.
Read More →
10 Tips for Reviewing Use-of-Force Reports
While the burden of accurately reporting use-of-force situations is on an individual deputy or officer, the person reviewing those reports shares in the responsibility of making sure the reporting is done properly, with clear details included.
Read More →