Chicago Police Department Weblog

Area 2 ANET Recovers over 1 Million in Cocaine and $30K in cash

Case officers BJ Smith and S. Mckenna had received information that a narcotics transaction would be taking place in the vicinity of the 7700 block of South Cicero in Burbank, Ill.  The officers were also given a description of the offender and the vehicle he would be driving.

Based on this information NAGIS teams B-6 and B-1 went to the location to make a controlled purchase of narcotics from the offender.  After the completion of the controlled purchase the offender, Raul Saavedra, 42 of 8236 S. Lorel was placed under arrest and Mirandized.  He then made an admission that he had more bricks of cocaine at his residence.  The offender then gave oral and written permission to search his residence.

A search of his residence resulted in 9,980 grams of cocaine, with an estimated street value of $1,247,500. and $30,000. in cash.  Additionally, three vehicles were seized. 

The supervisors on this incident were Sgt. M. Moore and D. Gilliam. The surveillance officers were K. Galvin, C. Landrum. F. Gomez, M. Myles, T. Torres, A. Holton, M. Godinez and D. Mason.  The Enforcement Officers were officer D. McGreal, T. Lefebvre, C. Ivy and Ed Grancy from Cook County.  Assest forfeiture: Sgt. Richards and Officer O. Brown.  Burbank Sgt. Bombenek and Officers Ready, Ortiz and Perovich.

Great job folks! 

Mayoral Press Conference Introduces CLEAR Map Web Site

Announced by the Mayor and Superintendent at a press conference on February 23rd, CLEAR Map, is now available at www.ChicagoPolice.org. The Chicago Police Department developed this web application to provide residents of the City of Chicago with a tool to assist them in problem-solving and combating crime and disorder in their neighborhoods. It is based upon the CLEAR (Citizen Law Enforcement Analysis and Reporting) system developed by the Department for use by its police officers.

CLEAR Map provides all of the capabilities of Citizen ICAM plus many more, including integration of Crime Stoppers alerts, and the ability to search by more geographies: Address, Beat, School, Park, Ward, and Community Area. PODs are now shown on these public maps as well.

This web application enables you to search the Chicago Police Department's database of reported crime. You will be able to see maps, graphs, and tables of reported crime. The database contains 90 days of information which you can access in blocks of up to 14 days. Data is refreshed daily. However, the most recent information is back-dated 7 days from the current date.

Chicago PD Launches a Crime Stoppers Component to the CLEAR Path Web Site

CPD has recently launched a Crime Stoppers component to the CLEAR Path web site which is now available at www.ChicagoPolice.org. On the site you can subscribe to receive Crime Stoppers wanted posters for your business or organization that span the geographic boundaries of your police district, police area or the entire city. You can also find a gallery of current wanted posters that you can download and distribute. This Crime Stoppers component is a partnership between CPD and the Cook County Crime Stoppers not-for-profit organization and is designed to promote citizen involvement in solving crimes. Registration is quick and easy and rewards are offered for your tips - even the FOP has teamed up with CPD to offer an additional $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the killer of fallen officer Jose Vazquez.

Cook County Crime Stoppers brings together citizens, law enforcement agencies, businesses and the media to fight felony-level crime. It encourages people to anonymously report tips on crime and thereby be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000. People can call 800-535-STOP  or 311 any time, any day to report their tips. Callers never have to give their name, just their information. Crime Stoppers gets these tips to the proper law enforcement agency for action. Since its launch in 1986, Crime Stoppers has helped federal, state and local law enforcement agencies recover over $23 million in property and illegal narcotics. Crime Stoppers has programs to combat illegal gun possession and use, domestic violence, fraud, illegal drug and gang activity, auto theft, campus violence and felony-level animal abuse, among others.

Area #1 Detectives Clear Homicide in just over 24 hours

At 0912 hours on 27 Feb 07, Christopher Nicholson, 33 of 12113 S. State entered the small grocery store at 4959 S. Ashland making inquiries to Ibrahim Alshwaiat, 60, about getting his job back.  When Nicholson was informed he was not welcomed back, he produced a hand gun and attempted to open the cash register.  A witness fled the rear of the store and called 911 and then heard several loud reports.  When the police arrived they found the victim with a GSW to the head. A nickname of the offender was provided to the Area #1 Detectives, William Brogan, William Marley, Michael Adams and Ronnie Lewis.  The detectives were able to identify, locate and arrest the offender and have charges approved by 1130 hours, 28 Feb 07.  Quick work of clearing another homicide. 

A/2 Detectives and Gang Intelligence Section Solve Homicide

Based upon information gathered by Area Two Detectives and the Area Two Gang Intelligence Unit an offender is arrested and charged with a 1991 murder.

On November 8, 1991, the victim, 28 y/o Christopher McCoy got into a verbal altercation outside a south side nightclub.  This altercation ended when McCoy was shot in the head by an offender who was then known only by his nickname:  "Fat Folks". Despite searching for additional evidence and information that would lead to the resolution of the case, the investigation stalled and remained unsolved.

In 2006, Detectives Tim Murphy and Dan Stover of A/2 Homicide picked up the case and started almost from scratch. After through investigation the detectives developed information that led to "Reginald T. Parnell", a self-admitted member of the Black Disciples street gang, as the shooter in the 1991 homicide.

Armed with this new information, the detectives coordinated with the Area 2 Gang Intelligence Unit to locate and apprehend the offender.  The Gang Intelligence Team 6520 used the information they were given and tracked down Parnell at a location near 82nd and Maryland.  Parnell was taken into custody and identified via photo arrays and line-ups as the shooter.

Through dogged investigation and cooperation, Detectives Murphy and Stover and the A/2 Gang Intelligence Unit apprehended a dangerous suspect who now faces First Degree Murder charges.

Good job Area Two.  Show 'em how it's done.

Good police work results in murder charges

Heads up police work by the 7th District and the Area #1 Gun Team results in one for murder.

On 20 Feb 07 at approximately 2327 hrs, Beat 757, Officer Ronni Black and Louis Torres were flagged down by a victim #1 who stated he was sitting with his cousin in a van on the 900 block of West 68th Street, when 3 male offenders approached the vehicle and victim #1 asked where "Liza" was.  The offenders related they would go get "Liza" and went into a house on West 68th Street.  When the offenders returned they opened fire on the van, fatally wounding victim #2, Sean Hawkins, 33, of East 43rd Street.  Victim #1, who was the driver, immediately put the van in gear and fled the scene and flagged down Beat 757.

The Beat officers obtained information identifying two of the three offenders and the possibility that the third offender may be "Liza's" ex-boyfriend.  Investigative Alerts were issued and a look-out message was sent out on the offenders vehicle. 

Between 21-22 Feb 07, the Area #l Gun Team, Officers Enrique Pacheco, Daniel Ludwig, Robert Stegmiller and Christ Savickas with Detectives Thomas Vovos, John Murray, William Davis and Destry Wilborn, were successful in rounding up the three offenders.  Further investigation revealed James Ivory, 24, of 6920 S. Wabash as the shooter. 

The weapon was recovered from the home of the victim's former girlfriend, who is now the girlfriend of Ivory.  The other two offenders were released without charging. 

Good Work ladies and gentlemen.  Job Well Done. 

CSI: Chicago--A/4 Detectives Solve 1993 Homicide

On October 21, 1993, Sheneen Shy, a 19 y/o female was found strangled to death in a vacant lot in the 1300 block of South Throop.

A number of possible suspects were interviewed, including an "Edward Brown", but there was not enough initial evidence to solve this crime.  Fortunately, DNA from the 1993 crime was retained from evidence at the crime scene, processed by the ISP Crime Lab and entered into the CODIS database.

Despite intense investigative efforts, the homicide remained unsolved.

In November of 2004, the case was assigned to A/4 Detectives Bill Whalen (now a Sgt. in A/5), Luis Munoz and John Madden, who doggedly searched for new leads, information and evidence.  A break in the case finally came when "Edward Brown" (who had previously been interviewed by the detectives) was also being questioned in another homicide that occurred in Area 3. 

DNA taken from Brown in the Area 3 investigation was entered into the CODIS system and matched DNA from the 1993 homicide.  Detectives Munoz and Madden continued their investigation and needed further DNA analysis to further link Brown to the 1993 murder of Shy. 

Thanks to excellent follow-up analysis by Nicolas Richert of the ISP Crime Lab, additional genetic confirmation was obtained and the final pieces of the puzzle fell into place.  Detectives obtained the proper warrants and arrested Brown (who was on "work release" following a felony theft conviction).

Tenacity and technology help to put a murderer where he belongs, behind bars.  Great Job!

Kudos To Cops for Kids Participants

The Field Technology Training Unit represented the Bureau of Administrative Services well when they took part in Cops for Kids bowling event at Centennial Lanes in Tinley Park, IL, on 24 February 2007.

Ready to bowl and donning “Field Tech Training Femmes Fatale” team shirts, the Field Technology Training team (Sgt. Maryet Hall, P.O. Linda Davis, F.T.O. Charemi Jones, P.O. Rosilynn Sutton and P.O. Linda Walton) was proud to deliver a donation of more than $1,300!!!  The team also sends a huge thank you to everyone who helped them attain this level of success.

The team also made a healthy donation to the Big Brothers Big Sisters Organization, thanks to support from their co-workers, family and friends. They hope they will be able to count on your repeated support next year.

Joann Wiley-Hyde, sister of Officer August Hyde (007th Dist) passed on 22 February 2007.  Private services in St. Louis, MO.

Golfers Get Ready!

The Chicago Police Golf League is looking for golfers for the 2007 golf season.  Any current or retired police officers who are interested should contact:

Ray Johnson (ret.)

773/792-2076 (Home)

73/218-5535 (Cell)

or

Stan Golucki

312/745-5238

PAX 0344

Heads Up Response to Shots Fired in 007

On the 24th of February, just after mid-night, Beat 725, Officers Beverly Reyes and James Lewandowski, saw flashes and heard shots fired at 6438 S. Honore and immediately responded to the scene.  The 14 year-old victim ran from the scene and collapsed at 1810 W. 65th Street.  The victim was transported to Christ where he was pronounced. 

Further investigation revealed the victim was attending a party at the Honore address and a dispute arose over who could dance with an unknown female at the party.  Party-goers were told to leave the party and a secondary disturbance erupted on the street with a male offender pulling a gun, firing and panicking the crowd.  The offender then fired a single shot into the crowd striking the victim in the back. 

Beat 761B, Officers John Dowling and Daniel Dowling, were able to develop information that indicated a Antoine Rice, 17, of 5037 S. May, was the offender.  Rice was taken into custody and was charged with 1st Degree Murder.  GSR tests on the offender came back positive.

All the officers from the 7th District and Area 1 are to be commended for a job well done.

You Can Run, But You Can't Hide: Cold Case Squad Does It Again

On 16 September 1998, 64 y/o Alma Valentine was walking to her car after work at the Chicago Association for Retarded Citizens,  6600 block of South Maplewood, where she cared for mentally challenged adults, when she was struck and killed by gunfire.

Initial investigation by A/1 revealed that Valentine was the unintended victim of the gunfire, which was fired by one gang member at a car load of rival gang members.  The investigation developed "Chevon Godfrey", a member of the Black P-Stone street gang, as the possible shooter.  Despite this information, the detectives were unable to get a warrant because there was not enough probable cause.  Detectives were also unable to locate Godfrey.  As a result, the case remained unsolved.

Detectives Robert Lenihan, Michael Cummings and Robert Trlak (now a Sgt. in Area 2) from the Cold Case Squad, revisited the Valentine murder case.  The detectives located witnesses who identified Godfrey as the shooter.  Further review of juvenile records revealed that Godfrey's father had a last name of Villanueva and that Godfrey had fled Chicago shortly after the incident.

Detectives consulted a national database that uncovered a "Chevon Villanueva" living in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  Suspecting that "Chevon Godfrey" and "Chevon Villanueva" were one and the same, the detectives focused their attention on Tulsa and obtained an arrest warrant.  As a result of further inquiry, detectives confirmed that not only were "Chevon Godfrey" and "Chevon Villanueva" the same person, but that "Godfrey" had obtained false identification and was now living in Las Vegas under the name "Eddie Williams"!

On February 1, 2007, Detectives Cummings and Lenihan went to Las Vegas where they located and arrested "Chevon Godfrey" a.k.a. "Chevon Villanueva".  During a post-arrest videotaped interview, Godfrey admitted that he fired the shots the struck and killed Alma Valentine.

On February 23rd, Godfrey was extradited from Las Vegas to Chicago, where he now faces charges of First Degree Murder. 

Due to relentless and thorough investigation, a murderer now faces justice.

Job well done.

Are We For Real. . . or What?

Well, I guess we are "official"!  We've gotten hate mail, coded messages. . . the works!  It's funny, though.  I thought that the biggest critics would be the so-called "unappreciative public" or even the "unscrupulous media".  HA! WRONG!!

If you haven't taken the time to really check us out, I'll simply remind you that we ARE "of, by and for the Police".  The REAL police, not the clout-heavy police, not the "whining" police--the every day copper who straps on a duty-belt, gets in a squad and does the job. If you think the site is all BS or propaganda or whatever, do me a favor and don't use it.  This site has been created to get factual information to the rank and file and also let the public see the everyday success stories of the Chicago Police Department.  We are here to give information, provide a voice and FINALLY  give credit to the men and women of this Department who truly deserve it. . . YOU. . . the "everyday copper."

Those of us working on this blog do so because WE WANT TO.   Believe it or not, there are still a lot of police officers who take pride and honor in the work they do.  There are problems and issues that make us unhappy with the job, that is part of life.  But then again, do you know of ANY job that is problem-free? (If so, send me an application--I could use a stress-free gig!)

If you simply want to rant, rave, whine, moan and complain without adding anything constructive, find someplace else to spend your time. Coded messages and inappropriate comments (while creative and SOMETIMES humorous) are not what we are about and will not be posted.  There's plenty of space to do that. . . elsewhere. 

Criticism is cool.  Stupidity is not.  Police officers already face enough adversity on a daily basis.  There are enough "haters" out there without us having to turn on each other. 

If you are proud to do the job, say so.  If you don't like the job, quit.  It's easy to be "controversial" and "subversive" when you can do so with an electronic pseudonym.  If you have a legitimate complaint or concern, you are more than welcome to express an intelligent opinion.  If your concern is legitimate, have the courage to sign your name.   

We do..... John Henry and Pat Camden. 

Automated License Plate Readers

Two vehicles, including the new "Concept Vehicle" that was implemented in cooperation with the Department of Fleet Management, now have Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) that are capable of scanning thousands of license plates per hour and immediately identifying stolen vehicles.

We have recently obtained Secretary of State vehicle registration data, which allows us to identify active warrants and investigative alerts for scanned vehicles. In just several months of use, the ALPRs have scanned 124,276 license plates. This has resulted in 123 recovered vehicles, 26 arrests and numerous guns - including three rifles stolen from the US Federal Government.

Ten (10) additional ALPRs have been ordered for the Special Operations Section (SOS) and Targeted Response Unit (TRU),  in additional to the four additional "Concept Vehicles" soon to be deployed - on per police area.

Source: Information Services Division Technology Update - Summer 2006

Mobile Identification Devices

Working with the Records Division, five Mobile Identification Devices are now available for use in the field. These devices have been fully integrated into the CLEAR System and AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Identification System), and can quickly collect and transmit demographic information, photographs and fingerprints of arrestees for immediate identification. A real-time warrant and investigative alert check is conducted also.

These devices have been deployed by the Public Transportation Section, personnel from various districts and the Licensing Unit during raids of private social clubs.

Source: Information Services Division Technology Update - Summer 2006

NAGIS involved in another large narcotics seizure

On 21 Feb 07, NAGIS Squad E-4 was following up on information about a large shipment of reefer coming into the area of 3800 on Spaulding.  Surveillance was set up and the subject entered a van and was followed to Westmont where he loaded 5 large boxes into his van.  A street stop was conducted and the boxes contained approximately 400 pounds of Cannabis.  A search warrant was obtained for the building at 131 W. 61st Street in Westmont and that resulted in 1300 additional pounds of marijuana being recovered.  The subject, Ciro Rojas, 21, was arrested and charged with possession etc and will be processed in DuPage County.  Last month this same team was involved in the recovery of over 2800 pounds of marijuana.  Good job, keep up the good work and stay safe.

New Lieutenants List for February 2007

Congratulations to the new class of Chicago Police Lieutenants!

click here to see the list of newly promoted Lieutenants

The Targeted Response Unit is Looking for Sergeants and Police Officers

The Targeted Response Unit is looking for Sergeants and Police Officers to be assigned to the unit. The unit is a high visibility unit which targets high crime areas. We are looking for aggressive, hardworking Sergeants and Police Officers. Minimum 2 years experience for Police Officers.

The unit works in uniform, in marked police vehicles, every day of the week during 3rd Watch hours. You will be assigned to a Day-Off-Group. If you are interested, please fill out the application which can be found on the CPD Intranet under Automated Directives, and return to Unit 253. You will then be scheduled for an interview. We will try and accomodate partners. For further information, please call (312) 745-4069.

- Cmdr. Elias Voulgaris
elias.voulgaris@chicagopolice.org

Monthly Department Commendation Ceremony

It is not unusual for a sergeant to receive a Department Commendation or a Life Saving Award.  It is not unusual for police officers who happen to be husband and wife to receive department commendations in the course of their police career.  However, it is really unusual when married police officers, who both happen to be sergeants assigned to different districts, receive a Department Commendation and a Life Saving Award at the same ceremony.  This happened today when Sgt's Arthur and Nellie Harb were presented with a Department Commendation and a Life Saving Award respectively.  Arthur actually was the recipient of two Department Commendations for narcotics work when he was in the 10th District.  Nellie was given the LSA for her efforts in apprehending an armed suicidal subject in the 11th District.  Congratulations to all who received Department Commendations and Life Saving Awards today.  Job well done!

Click here to view the list of Department Commendations issued. (103MB)

No Forgiveness For Cop Killer

The following is an excerpt from a letter sent to CPD from a member of the Chicago Sun-Times News Group.

"Convict Bigsby killed a police officer, attempted to kill others, and if he hadn't run out of ammunition, the death toll could have been three or more. What possibly could be said that would make this man a candidate to return to society and freedom? There only is one correct decision on any application this convict makes for parole. That decision is an immediate denial. Now and forever. It should not be difficult to do the right thing.

Convict Bigsby now is being considered for parole. A parole hearing is scheduled for Tuesday at Danville Correctional Center, where Bigsby is serving his sentence. Cutting short his sentence would be offensive to the community, the police department, law enforcement in general and most horribly to officer Ed Barron's family."

To read the letter in it's entirety, click here.

Upcoming Ceremony for New Police Lieutenant Class

On Thursday, 22 February 2007 at 1000 hours, there will be a promotional ceremony for 21 new Lieutenants at the South Shore Cultural Center, located at 7059 S. South Shore Drive.

Please join us in congratulating this new class of Lieutenants.

Good luck and take care of the troops!

Department Commendation Ceremony

The monthly department commendation ceremony will take place on 21 Feb 07 at 0930 hours in the Multi purpose room at Headquarters, 3510 S. Michigan.  Over 120 officers are slated to receive Department Commendations for going above and beyond the call.  These officers all stepped up and did the right thing because they are the police.

If you think these awards are meaningless, come on down and watch the pride that is on the officers faces as the awards are presented or as they stand in line to take pictures with the Superintendent and their Commanders.  Watch their wives, mothers, fathers and friends smile with pride as their loved ones are recognized for the good that they do on a daily basis. 

There will be a few minor mentions in the media, but nothing of any significance.  We know what happens when the news is negative, then you can't keep the media away.  Keep on trying and send us those positive stories from you districts and areas.  Congratulations to all the award recipients.

Fr. Nangle's Homily for Officer Jose Vazquez

I mentioned in the previous post that Fr. Tom Nangle is the "real police Chaplin".  In my 36 years with the department (the last 22 being spent in News Affairs) I know first hand from too many horrific trips to hospital emergency rooms when a police officer has been seriously injured.  Fr. Nangle is at his best when we are at our worst.  When one of our own has been shot and is in critical condition, Fr. Nangle does his best work. 

His mere presence is comforting to those who just don't know what to do when a brother or sister is mortally wounded and we stand around and wait to see what God has planned.  Fr. Nangle will go with Officers Special Activities to tell the wife, parents or significant others of the fate that involves on of their loved ones.  He is also at the hospital to comfort so many of us who are at a loss for words or to provide direction in the most dire time of need.  If you look at the mast head of the Weblog it simply states:  Of the Police... by the police...for the police.  Fr. Tom Nangle is all that and more.  He does not know I am writing this, but I strongly feel that it is long overdue. 

Fr. Tom is truly doing God's work with the Chicago Police Department.  He was instrumental in the founding and organizing of the "Gold Star Families" and most importantly, "We will never forget" back in the mid 1970's . . . and look how far it has come.  The Chicago Police Department now has the finest Gold Star Memorial Park and Foundation in the nation.  That all started with a simple plan many years ago.  I am attaching Fr. Tom's homily to this post.  I apologize that it is not electronically attached, but I am not an I.S. person, I am just a police officer who has the utmost respect for the man that wrote and delivered the following:

Homily for Officer Jose Vazquez, #13088, Rest In Peace.

Blue and white cars roam this city's streets and alleys every minute of every day and night, and each one of them carries four words that speak of the soul of police work:  We Serve and Protect.  Those four words are accurate and true, and they are of God.  Those words capture a very big part of the life of Jose Vazquez.  And the rest of his life can be captured by one more word:  Love... Love of a strong wife, love of a mother and father who gave life to an exceptional family, love of brothers and sisters----5 by blood and 13,500 by blue.

Nellie, you said yesterday that Jose never called you by your name.  Instead, you were always "honey" and "baby"  You were the last face Jose saw on this earth, the last voice he heard, the last touch he felt before he went into the presence of his God.  You and the family used beautiful words to describe Jose:  strong man, soldier, angel, sincere, respectful. sweet, passionate, guardian.  Your future with Jose has been taken from you, but your past with him is yours to keep forever, until the day you hold him again forever.  In the hospital ER, and yesterday at the wake, you pressed your hands to your chest and said over and over, "He's here---he's here."  You were speaking from the depths of your soul, and we know what you mean.  We understand.  His life was way too short for all of us, but in his 34 years Jose enriched the human family as he journeyed across this earth.  He knew love, he knew service to others, and he knew work what had deep meaning and was satisfying to his soul:  the work of a Chicago Police Officer.

And as a police officer, Jose was exceptional.  He was laid back, never got mad, he made the job fun for those who worked with him.  The constant exposure to human suffering and evil never got to him, and he even made the bad guys laugh at being locked up!  His sergeant said that Jose and his partner were an outstanding team: when they were working, you knew you'd have something good by the end of the night.  When he was on duty, Officer Jose Vazquez, Star #13088 had two of the most valuable virtues in a police officer:  He was aggressive and he was fair.  Even the street respects that in a policeman.

Mr. and Mrs. Vazquez, you have created an exceptional family.  Nellie, you and Jose warmed our world with your love for each other.  Dr. Raul Vazquez, Jacqueline, Nancy, Raul, Joaquin - you've shared a fine brother with us.  We are all so sorry for your pain and the empty spot that is in your world now.  Officers of the Special Operations Section of the Chicago Police Department, you have taken another hit and I am so sorry for that.  There is an empty spot at roll call where Officer Vazquez used to stand, but we knew him, and we know you and we know the beat will go on.

Jesus Christ tells us in the gospels that, when this life ends, all we will be measured by is how well we have loved.  Last Monday morning, Jose Vazquez went from his Nellie's arms into the arms of God, and God must have grinned.  Jose---we weep for the death of you, and we laugh for the life of you.  Amen.

Fr. Thomas Nangle, CPD Chaplain

Police Family Shows Strong Support for the Vazquez Family

Despite bitter cold temperatures, the Chicago Police family showed it's true colors and feelings in the strong attendance at the funeral of Officer Jose Vazquez.  As the hearse approached the church, police officers and dignitaries stood at attention, braving the bitter cold in honor of their murdered brother. 

The honor guard removed the casket from the hearse into the church as the bag pipes played. The church was completely filled with family members and police officers.  It was standing room only.    Father Tom Nagle delivered the Gospel in only the way he can.  He is truly a "police" Chaplin.  At the end of the service, eulogies were delivered by the Mayor and the Superintendent.  The Superintendent's eulogy is attached.

A fallen brother was buried with the same dignity that he created in his life.

Download officer_vazquez_eulogy.doc

Reward for Murderer of Police Officer Increased

The reward for the arrest and conviction of the killer of Officer Jose Vazquez has been increased to $26,000.  A Retired Chicago Police officer has added $5,000 to the reward fund.  The Chicago Police Department and the Fraternal Order of Police have each contributed $10.000, in addition to the $1,000 offered by Crimestoppers.  Officer Jose Vazquez was shot to death on 12 Feb 07 at 0145 hours in the parking lot at 2500 block of W. Harrison.  If you have any information regarding this murder please call 1-800-535-STOP or 311.

We Need to Hear From You

We want to hear from you!  The beat officers.  The P/Os who answer the calls, the ones who respond when someone needs help.  The men and women who make it safer for all of Chicago.  You are the ones who see your fellow officers do and accomplish things that the bosses sometimes don't.  Remember when you had the person locked in a room and the officer in the assist car talked him or her out before the supervisor got there . . . and it remained a 19 Ida instead of an HBT situation.  Tell us about it.    Use the blog to give 'em a pat on the back and to say thanks for the help.  These are just examples of ways to utilize the blog.  We know there's a lot going on out there.  Let us know.  Help make this effort Of the Police...By the Police... and ...For the Police.

CPD Enforcers Football Team to host Fundraiser

The Chicago Bears football season is over.  But don't be sad about it.  When was the last time the Bears played in the last game of the season?  But come April the Chicago Police Enforcers Football team will begin its season.  The team is made up of CPD officers who still have that urge to strap on a helmet and play the game.  But they do more than just play the game.  They raise funds to support the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation, The Gold Star Families and the Mercy Home for Boys and Girls.  This Sunday the Enforcers will host a fund raiser from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 115 Bourbon Street, 3359 West 115th St.  There will be food and a live band.  For more information go to www.cpdenforcers.com or contact team members and the coaching staff for tickets.

Funeral Arrangements for Officer Jose Vazquez

The wake for Officer Jose Vazquez will take place at the Montclair-Lucania Funeral Home, 6901 W. Belmont, from 1400 hours to 2100 hours, 15 Feb 07.  St. Jude will meet at 1900 hours on 15 Feb 07.  The funeral mass will be celebrated at Resurrection Church, 2840 W. Nelson at 1000 hours, on 16 Feb 07.

Do It Because You're the Police

To the ordinary citizen seeing flames coming from a burning building is very traumatic.  Hopefully the citizen would call the fire department and wait for their arrival.  Officer Michael O'Connor of the 7th District was on his way to work at 2255 hours when he saw flames coming from a home at 1758 W. 71st st.  Officer O'Connor called the fire department and notified them of the fire and immediately took action.  He attempted to get into the front of the home and could not gain entry.  Officer O'Connor forced his way into the home, sees an 8 year -old  boy coming down the stairs, directs him out of the building and tells him to wait in the officers car.  A female holding  a two year old is coming down the stairs and was screaming that another person was on the second floor.  A male occupant found by Officer O'Connor was attempting to get dressed and was assisted in getting out of the building and into the warmth of the officers vehicle parked in front.  Officer O'Connor was on his way to work and did the right thing because he is the police.  The cause of the fire is under investigation at this time.

Three Teenage Robbers Surprised by Undercover Detective Posing as Pizza Deliveryman

Three teenage robbers were surprised when they found the pizza deliveryman they were trying to rob was an undercover detective out of Area One. 

During the robbery attempt the detective shot and killed one juvenile and the other two were arrested and charged with attempted robbery and murder.  The teen was killed when he pointed a gun at the detective during the robbery and did not drop it when the detective announced his office and told him to drop the gun. 

His two accomplices were charged with murder because under state law a person or persons committing a forcible felony is responsible for the death of anyone who dies during the commission of that felony.

Area One detectives quickly set up the undercover operation after receiving a call from a business owner who noticed that he had received a delivery order in the same area described in a Business Alert issued earlier by the Area.  Detectives are still investigating similar crimes in the area to see if these offenders are also responsible for those robberies.

TRU Officers Remember One of Their Own

Last night a one year memorial service was held at the Archbishop Quigley Seminary High School Chapel for Police Officer Eric Solorio of the Targeted Response Unit who passed away February 12, 2006 from injuries received on-duty. 

The mother and family of Eric, along with Deputy Superintendent Risley, ADS Chiczewski, and Cmdr. O'Donnell were present.  Along with everyone, the heart of TRU, the hardworking Police Officers, were at the service.  It was a wall-to-wall presence of TRU members.  It truly made me proud to be the Commander of TRU seeing all the TRU members supporting the family and keeping Eric's memory everlasting. 

Thank you to Rev. Bruce Wellems

We Stand. . .

So often we take each day for granted.  We come and go, thinking that our routine will never be disrupted.  Until it is. . . .

Now is the time for us to stand together as Police Officers.  Whenever one of us is lost. . . we all feel the pain.  Society loses another hero, another servant, who (unlike most) is willing to place himself in harm's way for the safety of others. 

Whether on-duty or off-duty, we should be reminded that we are the ones who "stand in the gap" between the peaceful and the hateful; we are the ones who have chosen to protect those who so often are unable to protect themselves; we are the ones who are judged by a standard few are able to maintain.

For all the nay-sayers, malcontents and those who hate this job, remember, it is NOT just a job.  It is a VOCATION, a calling that few are truly willing to answer with dignity, strength, humility and purpose.

For those who do answer the call, the praise and accolades come few and far between.  Nonetheless, we stand.

We are not perfect, but we are extraordinary.  What makes us so is that we have the courage to make ordinary decisions under extraordinary (sometimes life changing) circumstances.  In the face of evil, we make the ordinary decision to do good.  In the face of violence, we make the ordinary decision to restore peace.  While others run, we stand and defend.  .  . our families. . . the defenseless.  .  . each other.  .  . and this City.

Comfort each other.  Pray for the families of all our lost officers.  Remember who and what we are.

And. . . continue to stand.

The Checkerboard

New Exhibit Showing the Perils of Drugs Opens at Navy Pier

Chicago Target America Exhibit Now at Navy Pier

(Chicago)— On February 8, 2007 a ribbon cutting ceremony officially opening the Target Chicago: Opening Eyes to the Damage Drugs Cause, was held at Navy Pier. Target Chicago is part of a national traveling exhibit presented by the DEA Museum and is designed to explore the devastating impact illicit drugs has on society and provide an important look at how every one can work to break the cycle of drug abuse and drug-related violence.

Click the link below to see more of this ground-breaking exhibit.

http://www.usdoj.gov/dea/pubs/states/newsrel/chicago020907.html

Police Officer Murdered

UPDATE--  The Chicago Police Department and Fraternal Order of Police have each raised $10,000 toward the reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the killer(s) of Officer Jose Vazquez.

As has been reported, on February 12th 2007 at 1:45 AM, Officer Vaquez was shot to death in the parking area of his building at 2527 W. Harrison.

No further information is available. The person(s) responsible for this crime should be considered armed and dangerous. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO APPREHEND. CASH REWARD UP TO $21,000. If you have information, please call 1-800-535-STOP or 311.

Any information on this brutal crime would be appreciated. 

Our condolences to this officer's family. 

Download officer_murdered.pdf

Belluomini Family Requests Your Support

A BELLUOMINI FAMILY REQUEST

We are asking for your help in writing letters of concern to Federal Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer, who will be presiding over a re-sentencing hearing on March 7, 2007 regarding convicted federal prisoner Robert Burke.

Harry A. Belluomini was a retired Chicago Police Detective working at the Dirksen Federal Building for the U.S. Marshall Service when on July 20, 1993, he was shot and killed by Jeffery Erickson, an escaping bank robber. Erickson had used a smuggled hand cuff key to release his handcuffs. He then disarmed a Marshal's intern, shot and killed Deputy U.S. Marshal Roy Frakes, and shot our Father, Harry Belluomini, all occurring in the basement of the Federal Building. Harry Belluomini was able to return fire before dying, mortally wounding Erickson. Erickson, realizing that he was dying, took his own life on the ramp leading from the basement to Jackson Blvd that fateful afternoon.

During 2005 , Robert Burke was convicted of supplying the handcuff key that facilitated Erickson's attempted escape. Burke had been a fugitive before his arrest and was hiding in England before his extradition. Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer presided over this trial and sentenced Burke to the maximum penalty allowed by law. The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the conviction and suggested that the case go back to the trial judge for possible reconsideration of the sentence.

We, the Belluomini Family, along with the FOP, are asking that letters be sent to Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer requesting that her initial sentence be maintained and the Burke be sentenced again to the maximum allowed by law.

Please address your letters to:

U.S. Probation Office
RE: Robert Burke, 01CR1049
219 S. Dearborn Ave.
Chicago, IL 60604

With heartfelt thanks,
PO Karen Belluomini, 050
PO Michael Belluomini, 059
PO Anne Belluomini, 025

Ok, readers.  This letter speaks for itself.  You know what you need to do.  Send a letter. . . send a message.

Charges Filed in Sexual Assault Cases

Charges were filed in a series of sexual assault cases which occurred on the Southwest side of Chicago.  A cooperative investigation between Wentworth Area Detectives and the Department's DNA Unit linked a single offender, James Earl Hampton to at least nine area assaults.  Results from pending DNA tests may link the offender to even more attacks on women and girls.

Congratulations to Wentworth Area Detectives, the DNA Unit and all officers involved. Your thorough investigation led to the arrest and charging of a dangerous sexual predator.  Job well done. . . one case at a time.

Download Hampton.pdf

Traffic Stop Nets Gun Pinch

Beat 4230B of the Targeted Response Unit conducted a traffic stop at 111th and Indiana with 4 subjects in the vehicle.  After the subjects exited the vehicle, the officers observed 4 loaded weapons inside the vehicle: a 9mm Assault Rifle with a laser sight, a pistol grip 12 gauge shotgun, a 45 semi-automatic handgun and a 9mm semi-automatic handgun.  The subjects were arrested and charged appropriately.  The subjects were debriefed with negative results and the A/2 Gun team was notified.

Good job TRU!  Thanks to you dangerous weapons and offenders are off the street.

Superintendent Cline's Letter to the IDOC Prisoner Review Board re: The Parole of Inmate Joseph Bigsby

Printed below is a letter written by the Superintendent that voices his protest against the parole of a convicted cop-killer.  Although the immediacy of this tragedy is diminished by the passage of time, the pain is still felt by this officer's family and those who knew him personally.  Please feel free to write to the Parole Board and let them know that time does NOT heal all wounds and that anyone who kills a police officer should never expect to walk freely again.

January 25, 2007

Chairman Jorge Montes
Prisoner Review Board
Illinois Department of Corrections
319 E. Madison
Springfield, Illinois, 62702

Dear Chairman Montes,

On behalf of the Chicago Police Department, please consider this letter as an additional form of Protest against the parole of Joseph Bigsby, Inmate # C02290.

On January 24,2007, my representative, John O. Schmidt, gave a statement to Prisoner Review Board member, Norman Sula, voicing the Chicago Police Department's objection to the parole of Joseph Bigsby. This statement was tape recorded by Mr. Sula at the Danville Correctional Facility during what was scheduled as a Parole Hearing for Joseph Bigsby.

On September 28, 1973, Joseph Bigsby fatally shot Police Officer Edward Barron who had responded to calls for help from citizens who had been robbed and threatened at gun point by Joseph Bigsby in two separate incidents. Police Officer Edward Barron and his partner, Police Officer Daniel Abate, located Joseph Bigsby in an alley and ordered him to drop his gun. Joseph Bigsby refused this opportunity to surrender and responded by shooting Police Officer Edward Barron in the head. As Daniel Abate bent over his fallen partner, trying to help Edward Barron, Joseph Bigsby continued to shoot at Daniel Abate attempting to kill him as well. Police Officers Keith Grabowski and Richard Gaffney responded from a different direction and were also fired upon by Joseph Bigsby, who only surrendered after he ran out of bullets to kill with.

On May 29, 1975, Judge Albert S. Porter sentenced Joseph Bigsby to 100 to 200 years for the Murder of Police Officer Edward Barron. Judge Porter articulated his reasons for this sentence, including that he saw no hope for rehabilitation.

I ask that the Prisoner Review Board consider the viciousness of Joseph Bigsby's actions, and abide by Judge Porter's sentence imposed on Joseph Bigsby.

Philip J. Cline
Superintendent of Police

New State of the Art Vehicle Added to S.W.A.T. Arsenal

The Bear Cat is the newest advanced technology tool to be deployed by the Chicago Police Department to assist the Special Operations Section SWAT (Stragetic Weapons And Tactics) Team.  The Bear Cat was purchased using Department of Homeland Security funding resources made available to the Deaprtment through the Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI).  UASI provides resources for the unique equipment, training, planning, and exercise needs of select high threat urban areas. The Bear Cat will use the call sign of 49R.

• 49 Robert will provide ballistic protection to rescue civilians or officers that are pinned down by gun fire and provide protection to first responders.
• 49 Robert eliminates the need for cover fire to move from one position to another.
• 49 Robert can be used as cover and shielding when no other tactical options are available.
• 49 Robert can be utilized to move into areas during civil unrest providing protection from dangerous thrown objects such as Molotov Cocktails and bricks.
• 49 Robert has interoperable communications capability that allows for multi-jurisdictional / multi-agency communications.

Homicide Charges for Robbery Offender

On January 20th at about 0223 hrs., 406E responded to a call of an aggravated battery at 3234 E. 91st Street.  When the officers arrived on scene, they found the victim lying on the ground and saw the offender fleeing the scene. 

After a foot chase, the offender was taken into custody and charged with aggravated battery.

The victim has now succumbed to his injuries and Homicide charges are pending against the offender who remains in custody.

Congratulations to the 004th District, the Midnight Violence Suppression Team and all of the assisting units who helped capture this offender.

Job well done!  Be careful.

Justice. . . at a Cost

On March 10, 2003, two New York officers from the elite, plainclothes Firearms Investigations Unit were ambushed and murdered by 24 year-old Ronell Wilson.

During an undercover weapons purchase, Officers James Nemorin and Rodney Andrews were shot as they waited to meet Wilson to purchase firearms from him.  Wilson ambushed them both and shot them to death.

Wilson was captured, charged with murder and, in January of 2007, sentenced to death by New York courts.

While this story does not directly involve Chicago Police, it does speak to all of us who, on a daily basis, wear the badge and place ourselves in harm's way.  Each day, whether on or off-duty we stand ready to ensure the safety of citizens we have sworn to protect.

Before his death, Officer Nemorin was interviewed by a film documentary crew and was quoted saying, "I have to protect myself. . . If you don't care, you're gonna get hurt."  Unfortunately, those words rang all too true.

It's unfortunate that so few people truly understand the dangers we face everyday.  I'm sure both of these officers fully intended to return to their families. . . their children. . .after completing their tour.  Such should be the goal of all of us who wear the badge.

While this story is tragic, it is a lesson as well.  Watch each other's back.  Be careful.  Take nothing for granted.

The offender was caught and brought to justice.  This time.

However, here's a little side note: at his sentencing, Wilson turned to the officer's families with a scornful glance. . . and stuck out his tongue in one final act of disrespect and defiance.

Remember that family is most important.  Remember what you are up against.

Teamwork Helps Find Missing Woman

Because of an overwhelming display of teamwork, thoroughness and professionalism, the life of a 42-year old woman with autism was saved.

Denira Reynard suffers from autism that has left her with the mental capacity of a 2 or 3 year-old and almost no verbal ability.  On the 5th of February she left her apartment at 4:00 AM and the call went out.

Units from the  16th, 19th, 20th, 23rd and 24th districts all worked together to conduct an extensive search in brutally cold weather to find this "high-risk" missing.  Searching under "L" train platforms, in subways and throughout the streets, these officers worked against time and the weather to find this woman.

Their efforts were rewarded. She was located and has been safely reunited with her family.

All of the officers involved deserve kudos for their efforts.  We know it's "all in a day's work", but the job was done in good fashion with a great result.

Nice teamwork.

Bank Robber Caught

On February 7, a man walked into the Chase Bank at 550 S. Dearborn and passed a note to the teller, announcing a robbery.  The teller handed the offender a bag of money. . . and a dye pack.  The offender fled the scene and appeared to have gotten away.

Well, thanks to a quick response by CPD units in the area, the offender was located with evidence and taken into custody.

Good job to all units involved!

Welcome to the Blog

Welcome to the official blog of the Chicago Police Department, the Checkerboard Chat.

Everyday our officers perform acts of heroism, kindness and good old-fashioned "police work" that never make news headlines.  Good police work also goes unnoticed by the public, peers and bosses.  The Checkerboard Chat gives our rank and file a much-deserved forum to tell their stories.  It is a site about the police, for the police and written by the police.

All too often, police are the subject of criticism.  This website provides an opportunity for those who perform the job at all levels to ask questions, share opinions and to tell stories that relate to our officers on an everyday level. 

With that in mind, this website was created as an outlet, where Department members can get good information, share positive experiences and commend their colleagues for a job well done.

As an official site of the Police Department, all postings to this blog will be moderated. Profanity and inappropriate comments will not be posted.  Constructive criticism, suggestions and other thought provoking commentary is welcome and encouraged.

I invite you to take advantage of this site.  As it is a work in progress, your suggestions and participation are crucial to its success.  With the implementation of the Checkerboard Chat, we can show why there is honor and pride in being a Chicago Police Officer.

Thanks for job well done!

The Superintendent

New Detectives to Start On 13 FEB 07

Congratulations to the new class of Detectives who will begin training on Tuesday, February 13, 2007.

PRE SERVICE DETECTIVE TRAINING            

002

Blum, Chris                        

Garlington, Christoph D.               

Davis, Arthur 

004

Cobb, Aaron S.               

Stoll, Kevin M.                

Kajdi, Steven A.             

005

Watson, Arleseuia N.

006

Jackson, Donovan

008

Cunningham, Mark T.

011

Sipchen, David W.

Killackey III, John E.

012

Chavarria, Alejandro

Mc Govern, James F.

Ulleweit, Fredrick C.

013

Kennedy, Michael T.

Acevedo, Marco A.

Oseguera, Albert J.

014

Riley, Patrick J.

017

Hansson, Jeffrey G.

018

Drew, Michael J.

019

Lorenty, Glen F.

Corcoran, James F.

Broderick, John P.

Jantke, Fredrick F.

020

Perez, Albert

Beck, Thomas E.

022

Glynn, Kevin P.

Piechocki, John M.

Costello, Robert R.

023

Elkins, Eric J.

025

De Cicco, James C.

Goduto, Leonard P.

Wright, Brian E.

111

Dolan, Christine M.

124

Seledon, Oscar

125

Jackowiak, David A.

140

Sullivan, Patricia L.

153

Ferguson, Brian J.

177

Otten, Marvin F.

188

Daniel, Heather L.

189

Bean, Ricky A.

Freeman, Daniel R

193

Olson, Keith R.

Dineen, Thomas P.

Louis, Edward H.

196

Buie, Gregory W.

Jurek, John J.

253

Murphy, Cullen T.

Cochran, Michael G.

Butler II, James P.

­

Central Control Does It Again!!

Here's a big thank you from the Deputy Chief of the Central Control group.  In his own words, Deputy Chief Keating "would like to thank all of the personnel in Central Control for a job well done during the 2006 Chicago Bears season!  Every officer and supervisor on staff should be commended for their professionalism and dedication to duty during the regular season, playoff games and the Super
Bowl.  Because [all of you] went the extra mile during this busy time, residents and visitors were able to enjoy the games without incident.  Thanks again for making this season a success!"

There ya go!  Great job. . . now maybe next year you will be working the Super Bowl Celebration Parade!!

Help Is On the Way!!

Well, another fresh crop of recruits are graduating from the Education and Training Academy on Thursday, February 8, 2007!  50 new officers from Recruit Class 06-08 will soon be hitting the streets and we want to wish them well.  The ceremony will be held at 0930 in the Grand Ballroom of Navy Pier.  This class started at the Academy on August 28, 2006. 

It's a tough job. . .but it's worth it.  Be safe, learn something everyday and remember that the time will FLY by!!  So have fun and BE THE POLICE!!!

Good luck and best wishes!

(OK--to all of you "old timers": teach these kids the ropes and keep 'em safe!)

Sergeant's Results Are In Mail!!

Well, here you have it!!!

We heard from HQ that the Sgt.'s Exam test results will be in the mail on Wednesday 07 FEB 07!!

It's time to celebrate!!  You heard it here FIRST!!! So if you are waiting for results, look no further.  They are scheduled to be put in the mail on Wednesday.

We also heard some other interesting news about new detectives!! 

Once we confirm it, we'll give you the lowdown!

Congrats!!

Bonehead Car Thief Caught

In late January, a man was charged with Attempted Murder after he tried to run down a Chicago Police Officer with a stolen vehicle.  Reginald Allen of the 7300 block of South Rhodes Avenue, took it upon himself to steal a vehicle and then, when officers from the 006th and 003rd Districts tried to stop him. . . he tries to use the 1987 Cadi as a weapon and run the officers down!

Fortunately, the only thing the offender succeeded in was tearing up some City property, as the officers themselves were unhurt.  Once again, the mind of a criminal is a . . . waste.

Anyway, thanks to quick thinking, brave actions and good back-up, a dangerous thief was captured. No officers injured. . . sounds good to me.  Another job well done by CPD.

As always, be careful and back each other up!!

Thanks to Officers for Coming to the Rescue!!

So often we think that no one pays attention to the good things the police do.  Well, below is a letter that shows how much a citizen appreciated the aggressive response and professional follow-up of the Chicago Police Officers who came to his aid.  This letter was sent directly to the Superintendent.

Take a look.

Congrats to all the officers and follow-up investigators involved in this case.

Download Newthanks.rtf

KUDOS TO 018TH DISTRICT!!!!

Kudos to Captain Tom Sappanos and ALL of the officers in the Near North (018th) District!!  The officers of the district  are appealing to local businesses and residents to help keep the needy and the homeless warm by donating winter clothing. 

These officers are asking for hats, coats, gloves, scarves and other winter items to help as many citizens as possible. . . particularly as the temperatures are expected to stay in the dangerously low numbers.

One local business has already donated a large bag of items including gloves and hats at the station (1169 N. Larrabee) where the officers then distributed the items throughout the district to the homeless. 

BUT THERE IS MORE WORK TO BE DONE!!! HELP THESE OFFICERS TO HELP THOSE IN NEED.

We encourage anyone who would like to assist Captain Sappanos and his officers in helping those who are less fortunate in this time of need to contact the 18th District at 312-742-5870.

We thank the businesses and citizens who have already so generously given!!! Help these officers with big hearts warm this city one person at a time!!

Contact the 18th District at 312-742-5870.  Keep up the good work 18th District!

Publicity Hoax Stopped Short by CPD

Well, cool heads and common sense prevailed in response to the "strange device" scare that turned out to be a promotion for a Cartoon Network show.  In a time where it seems like everyone's on edge, it's good to know that there are still some who can look at a situation, use a little caution and "street smarts" and still get the job done.

Kudos to CPD for not causing a panic and getting to the bottom of what appears to be a silly media stunt.

Cops Rescue Child Left Alone in Car

On 02 February at about 1820 hours (6:20 p.m. for those who get to use "normal people time") two 17th District Officers got a call of a child left alone in the Jewel's Parking lot at 3500 N. Kedzie. (Yeah, that Jewel's!)  Anyway, the cops search the lot and find a car with . . . a small child in it. . . alone! 

Oh, and for those who didn't already know. . . IT WAS FREEZING OUTSIDE!!!  Well, Officers Merrifield and Liarkos braved the cold (8 degrees) and got this little 2 year old girl out of the car, took her someplace warm. . . and waited for mom to come out of the store.

When mom did. . . she was promptly taken into custody and charged with Child Endangerment.  Good job officers. . .sometimes it's the little things that count.  These Officers' names didn't make the news, but. . . could you imagine what would have happened if it they had given the job a routine "19B"??!??

Good work.

Off-Duty Chicago Police Detective Apprehends Hit and Run Driver after Observing Fatal Accident in West Suburb

Brookfield – An off-duty Chicago Police detective arrested a man responsible for a fatal hit and run car accident Monday after the officer observed the incident un-fold on a suburban street.

At about 7 p.m. the off-duty detective, Patrick Tode, who is assigned to the Chicago Police Department’s Management and Labor Affairs Section, was driving his personal vehicle northbound on the 4000 block of South Prairie Avenue in Brookfield when he observed an elderly couple attempting to cross the street.

At that point, the driver of the vehicle directly in front of the detective struck the couple. The driver accelerated his vehicle, ignored the stop sign and fled the scene of the accident.

A Brookfield Fire Department vehicle was also in the area and immediately responded to the elderly victims. The 83-year-old female victim was pronounced dead on the scene and her 88-year-old husband was taken to Loyola University Medical Center in critical condition.

Detective Tode followed the offender several blocks and was able to stop the car and arrest the driver. Brookfield officers assisted Tode on the scene and the offender was taken in to custody by Brookfield police. The offender, Thomas J. Postulka, 45, of Brookfield was charged with two counts of aggravated DUI and several traffic citations, according to the Brookfield police officials.

“Without detective Tode’s intervention this dangerous offender could have easily escaped,” said Chicago Police Commander Hector J. Rodriguez. “Hit and run offenders are the most difficult to apprehend and police rely on eye witnesses accounts to help them solve these cases. Detective Tode’s training, compelled him to act above and beyond what is expected of witnesses, and exemplifies the courage Chicago Police officers exhibit every day, both on and off duty,” he added.

###

Chicago Police Shut Down West Side Open Air Drug Market and Arrest Several Members of New Breed Triple L Street Gang

(Chicago) – Chicago Police shut down an open-air drug market on the city’s West Side and charged several members of the New Breed street gang for selling heroin and running a drug market.  They are also responsible for the increase in violence in the area in connection with the drug operation.

Members from the department’s Narcotic and Gang Investigation Section (NAGIS) monitored information regarding the on-going feud between two rival gangs, the New Breeds and the Traveling Vice Lords in and around the Harrison (11th) District.  Eleventh District Commander James Jackson, and other district personnel passed along complaints from citizens regarding the drug sales in the 3900 block of West Grenshaw Avenue to the NAGIS team, which lead to the creation of the operation.

“Operation Grenshaw,” which was launched in the fall of 2006, targeted the sale of heroin by members of the New Breed Triple L street gang.  Undercover officers made several purchases of heroin from the gang members. The plastic ziplock bags containing heroin were imprinted with blue devil face logos.  Many of these transactions took place within 1,000 feet of schools and churches. NAGIS team members also conducted countless hours of surveillance of the illegal drug operation.

Officers bought and seized a total of 165 grams of heroin, with an estimated street value of about $25,000.  Approximately $4,000 in illegal drug money was also obtained.

Eight of the offenders were taken into custody on January 18 and warrants were issued for five other offenders.

On-going gang conflicts between the New Breeds and the Traveling Vice Lords over drug turf has lead to an increase in violence in the area. These conflicts led to at least 19 homicides in 2006.

“It’s no secret that gangs, guns and drugs contribute to the majority of the street violence in our communities,” said Commander James Jackson. “This investigation and subsequent arrests have sent a strong message to the gang members that we will not allow these open markets to continue to disrupt the community,” he added.

Those arrested or wanted on warrants as part of Operation Grenshaw include:

Gregory Dukes, 26	wanted	crim. drug consp
Jarlon Garrett, 31	in custody	crim. drug consp
Markell Hall, 31	in custody	crim. drug consp
Levell Pipes, 20	wanted	crim. drug consp
Eric Sommerville, 28	in custody	crim. drug consp
Leon Horn, 21	in custody	del. cont. subs
Roxon Love, 28	wanted	del. cont. subs
Jeremiah Robinson, 20	wanted	del. cont. subs
Tony Whitley, 48	in custody	del. cont. subs
Jacoby Williams, 17	wanted	del. cont. subs
A 15-year-old juvenile	in custody	del. cont. subs
Keon Horn, 19	in custody	poss. cont. subs
Cory Stone, 18	in custody	poss. cont. subs

In 2006, Chicago police shut down 56 open-air drug markets, with more than 795 targets that included 598 arrests.   Operation Grenshaw marks the second open air drug market shut down this year.

###

$22 Million Narcotics Seizure

On February 1, 2007, 8th District Tactical Officers seized 113 kilos of cocaine (est. value: $14 Million) and 3000 lbs. of cannabis (est. value: $8 Million) along with approximately $100,000 in cash.  The total value of the seizure was estimated to be in excess of $22 Million. 

The officers were on patrol and noticed a van parked near the 4000 block of south Pulaski.  When officers approached the van, they saw an open "brick" of cannabis on the floor in the van and immediately took the driver into custody.

As a result of further investigation, officers were led to a nearby residence were the additional money and narcotics were recovered from. . . of all things, empty water heaters!  With the help of the Chicago Fire Department, the officers were able to have the heaters cut open and to recover the cocaine. 

Through keen investigation and alert patrol, the 8th District Tactical team took a HUGE bite of of the drug trade in Chicago!  All in another day's work!  Job well done!