This blog will serve as a credible source of accurate and timely information regarding the Department. In addition, interact with Superintendent Jody P. Weis; he will post his thoughts, ideas and comments regularly to this blog. Most importantly, YOU, as Department members can join in the discussion and share your perspective.
Area 4 Ride to Remember 2010
Click on the link below to view video from this year's Area 4 Ride to Remember.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gVfi679Fjc
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Update from the Education and Training Division
On 01 September, 125 recruits are scheduled to commence basic recruit training at the Academy. On 16 August 2010, 30 newly promoted sergeants will commence their training as will 30 new lieutenants on 07 September.
The new driver training facility is up and running at O’Hare Airport, and officers are being put thru driving skills classes as quickly as instructors and equipment permit.
The Harvey firearms range has been re-acquired for rifle training at least thru 30 September, allowing for carbine qualifications to continue. Additional rifle training facilities continue to be pursued.
Finally, all school officers will be invited to the Academy for re-training this month as it’s that time of year. Training bulletins, videos and curriculum continue to be developed in areas such as tactical arrests, firearms, defensive tactics/weapons retention, legal issues and courtesy/professionalism/ethics.
Stay safe!
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Superintendent's Speaker Series: Officer Down. Officer Survival.
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It is imperative that our officers are healthy both mentally and physically and are equipped with the most up to date information in regards to officer safety and survival. With that, we are hosting two 1-day seminars on 09 August and 10 August that will address these issues that unfortunately police officers have to deal with on a regular basis. These events will be held at the Education and Training Division. Issues related to officer down incidents as well as officer survival will be discussed. The morning session will include presentations by Dr. Nancy Zarse (Psy. D) and Dr. Robert Sobo (from the Employee Assistance Program). Dr. Zarse will speak on the following related to officer down incidents: |
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NOBLE Chicago Offers Reward in Officer Bailey Shooting
NOBLE (National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives) Chicago Metro Chapter is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction for those responsible for the murder of Chicago Police Officer Michael Bailey which occurred on July 17, 2010 in the vicinity of 74th and Evans in Chicago, IL.
Anyone with information regarding this community tragedy, should contact the Chicago Police Department’s Area Two Detectives at (312) 747-8272.
“Our city has suffered the consequences of reckless violence in the loss of Officer Bailey, who exemplified civic service and integrity in his career, community and family” Chief Eugene Williams, Chicago Metro Chapter President said in announcement of the reward. NOBLE Chicago Metro Chapter joins the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation, Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #7, and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in offering a total reward of up to $65,000 for information leading to the capture of the killers of Officer Bailey.
The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) was founded in September1976, during a three day symposium to address crime in urban low income areas. The symposium was co-sponsored by the Police Foundation and the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration (LEAA). The Joint Center for Political Studies (JCPS) coordinated this unprecedented event in which sixty (60) top-ranking black law enforcement executives representing twenty-four (24) states and fifty-five (55) major cities gathered in the Washington, D.C. area to participate. They exchanged views about the critically high rate of crime in black urban communities and the socioeconomic conditions that lead to crime and violence. They raised questions about relevant issues such as fairness in the administration of justice, police community relations, the hiring and promotion of black police officers, and the unique problems of the black police executive.
Contact Information:
NOBLE Chicago Metropolitan Chapter
www.noblechicago.org
www.noblenatl.org
specialevents@noblechicago.org
President, Eugene Williams
773-610-3212
NOBLE Media Relations
Glen Brooks
773-851-8800
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A Story Worth Sharing by Fox Reporter Bob Sirott
Bob Sirott: One More Thing About the Police Officers Shot and Killed
Updated: Tuesday, 20 Jul 2010, 10:11 PM CDT
Published : Tuesday, 20 Jul 2010, 10:11 PM CDT
By Bob Sirott, FOX Chicago News
Chicago - One more thing about the three Chicago police officers who have been shot and killed since May.
As the stories came out about these outstanding officers -- Thomas Worthham, a passionate neighborhood volunteer who served two tours in Iraq; Thor Soderberg, who helped a blind friend train for triathlons; Michael Bailey, who was active in his block club and determined to protect his neighborhood -- it struck me that there are thousands of similar stories about the men and women of the Chicago Polic Department that normally never get on the news.
News by definition is something out of the ordinary, and so what you hear about most are the bad cops--the few bad apples that are in any group.
Occasionally a spectacular act of heroism by a police officer will make the news, but every day Chicagoans like officers Soderberg, Wortham, and Bailey are doing hundreds of little things helping people in every way imaginable with little or no recognition at all.
"It's just part of the job," they'll tell you.
When millions of people show up downtown to see the Blackhawks, and the crowds and traffic are handled expertly and without incident--we take for granted all that hard work the police do to prepare and pull off an event like that.
Talk to the cops on the street and they'll tell you it's worse than ever out there, and as more officers retire, not enough young men and women want to replace them.
There isn't one solution to the lack of respect for human life we've been experiencing lately in our city, but maybe if those of us who work in newsrooms make a greater effort to report on, and celebrate all the wonderful work most of the men and women of the Chicago Police Department do all the time, it would be a positive influence in our neighborhoods.
Maybe it would change some minds.
It may not help.
But it sure can't hurt.
See the video at the link below:
http://www.myfoxchicago.com/dpp/news/opinion/bob-sirott-one-more-thing-police-officers-killed
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Services for P.O. Michael Bailey
Wake: Thursday, 22 July 2010 between the hours of 1500-2000. The wake will take place at A.R. Leak and Sons Funeral Home located at 7838 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Chicago IL. At the family request there will be no St. Jude services at the wake.
Funeral: Friday, 23 July 2010 at 1000 hours. St. Sabina Church, 1210 W. 78th Place.
Uniform: Members of the Chicago Police Department will wear their Class A Summer Dress Uniform which will consist of a short sleeve shirt.
Cemetery: There will not be a cemetery service. All ceremonial events normally taking place at the cemetery will take place at the exterior of the church.
A formal order with reporting times, locations and parking information will be forthcoming.
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Officer Michael Bailey, Star #13970
As all of you know, on 18 July at 0603 hours, Officer Michael Bailey, Star Number #13970, assigned to the 001st District, was fatally wounded near his residence on the 7400 block of South Evans.
Officer Bailey had just gotten home and was still in uniform when he was approached during an apparent robbery attempt. During an exchange of gunfire with the offenders, Officer Bailey was struck. Eyewitness accounts provided a detailed description of at least one offender as well as additional information about the events related to this tragic incident.
Numerous members from the Bureau of Patrol, the Detective Division, Gang Enforcement Unit, Gang Intelligence Section, Narcotics Section and other units are aggressively seeking the offenders in this homicide. We will not tire in our effort to work to find the individuals responsible, and bring them to justice.
I would like to thank the men and women of the above units, as well as those that responded to the incident yesterday, for their hard work and dedication.
One of the most agonizing things for a police department is dealing with the death of an officer. Unfortunately, we have been confronted with this reality far too many times recently. These acts of violence against members of our department are appalling. I recognize that many of you are angry; you have a right to be. I ask that you channel that anger and go out and do your job to the best of your ability; to serve and protect our City by finding those responsible for evil, and bringing them to justice.
The individuals responsible for these incidents have no value for human life; it is you, the men and women of the police department, who work everyday to separate these individuals from civilized society. The City owes you a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid.
As the City relies on us, I ask you to rely on one another. At times like this, we must assist and support one another. During these difficult moments, it is important for us to come together, as a Department – as a police family.
Many Department members are experiencing sadness, anger, and possibly a host of emotions in light of recent tragedies. Please remember that you are not alone and that there is support available.
The Chicago Police Department's Professional Counseling Service is available for Department members and their families. The Traumatic Incident Stress Management Program is available in these difficult times. The program provides trauma and grief counseling, in addition to counseling for other professional and personal issues. These services are confidential. Please take care of yourselves, one another, and your families.
The most difficult part of my job is the loss of an officer; while I am deeply saddened, and upset, I am also incredibly proud of our Department. The manner in which we come together to support one another demonstrates the character and integrity of our organization, and each of you. I am here for each and every one of you, and am grateful of both the work that you do and the opportunity to serve alongside each of you.
Thank you for your service and, as always, stay safe.
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Officer Down: Officer Michael Bailey
Tragically today we lost another member of our police family. Officer Michael Bailey had just gotten home and was still in his uniform when as many as three men approached. There was an exchange of gunfire between Bailey and at least one of the men. Sadly Officer Bailey was struck and died from his wounds. The men fled and are being sought vigorously.
Unfortunately, this shooting marks the third death of an off-duty Chicago police officer in the last two months. As recent as July 7, Officer Thor Soderberg was gunned down and on May 19, Officer Thomas Wortham IV was shot outside his parents' home.
At this time, it is imperative that officers and supervisors watch out for one another, and seek help if needed. We must rely on one another, especially now.
PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING SERVICE
The Chicago Police Departments' Professional Counseling Service is available for Department members and their families. The Traumatic Incident Stress Management (TISM) Program section is available for officer involved shootings, but not limited to line-of-duty incidents.
The TISM program is available in these difficult times within the Department and in our personal lives. The program provides trauma and loss counseling, in addition to grief counseling and other professional and personal issues.
Many Department members are experiencing sadness, anger, and possibly a myriad of emotions in light of recent tragedies. Please remember that you are not alone and there is a place for grieving, debriefing and reintegration.
For more information about services contact the program at 312 743-0378.
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Police Officer Thor O. Soderberg Memorial Celebration
On Wednesday, 07 July 2010, Chicago Police Officer Thor O. Soderberg #14767, was working Operation Protect Youth, an initiative to curb youth violence. He was returning to his personal car at the end of his shift when he was fatally wounded by an assailant during an attempted armed robbery. Police Officer Soderberg was appointed to the Chicago Police Department on 02 August 1999. Throughout his career, he was assigned to the 006th District the Bike Patrol Unit and most recently the Education and Training Division. Officer Soderberg received 1 Department Commendation, 15 Honorable Mentions and 7 Physical Fitness Awards.
As Superintendent of Police, I encourage all Department members to join me in paying tribute to Police Officer Thor O. Soderberg at the visitation and memorial celebration.
Visitation: Malec and Sons Funeral Home
6000 North Milwaukee Avenue
Chicago, IL 60646
Tuesday, 13 July 2010 from 1500 to 2000 hrs
Memorial Celebration: University of Chicago: Rockefeller Memorial Chapel
5850 South Woodlawn Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
Thursday, 15 July 2010 at 1000 hrs
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Officer Thor O. Soderberg
It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of Officer Thor O. Soderberg.
Officer Soderberg was assigned to the Education and Training Division. After finishing his tour of duty on 07 July 2010, Officer Soderberg, while returning to his vehicle in the police parking lot, was confronted by an offender with an extensive criminal history. The offender attacked Officer Soderberg, who was in full uniform. During the struggle that ensued, Officer Soderberg was disarmed and was shot and killed. Officer Soderberg was a ten-year veteran of the Department, who was known for his kindness, compassion and desire to improve the Department.
Responding officers exchanged gunfire with the offender, shooting and wounding him before taking him into custody. These officers subdued an offender that had murdered a Chicago Police Officer at a police facility, and then robbed a civilian before engaging in a gun battle with responding officers.
Officer Soderberg participated in numerous triathlons, in which he assisted blind athletes through the C Different Foundation. Officer Soderberg exemplified the courage and selflessness that is on display by the men and women of the Chicago Police Department daily.
This horrific incident serves as a reminder of the threats faced, everyday, by the members of the Chicago Police Department.
I ask that you all keep Officer Soderberg and his family, friends and colleagues in your thoughts and prayers. I also encourage you to share your thoughts and comments about Officer Soderberg on this blog.
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Officer Down
A fellow Chicago Police Officer was fatally shot this afternoon in the parking lot of the Targeted Response and Gang Enforcement Unit’s facility, located on the 6100 block of South Racine Avenue, after finishing his tour of duty.
Responding Officers were able to engage and wound the offender before taking him into custody.
Tragically, the officer succumbed to his injuries.
We extend our prayers and deepest condolences to the officer, his family, friends, and colleagues.
Additional information will be posted when it is available and appropriate to do so.
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Officer Valadez Street Sign Dedication
On Sunday, 11 July 2010, at 0900 hours there will be a Street Sign dedication honoring the memory of Chicago Police Officer Alejandro "Alex" Valadez #9534. This event will take place at the south east corner of 26th Street and Homan Avenue.
For more information please contact Police Officer Luis Luque at 773-316-9881 or Luis.Luque-Rosales@chicagopolice.org
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PHYSICAL FITNESS INCENTIVE AWARD
Over 3,000 Members, including 21 Exempt Members, passed the 2009 Fitness Incentive. This is an increase of 473 compared to the number that passed in 2008 and reflects an increasing commitment to better health and fitness. I encourage all Department employees, not only for yourselves but for the sake of your co-workers and loved ones, to pursue a healthy lifestyle and diet and continue to maintain the highest level of physical readiness possible.
Also, the Education and Training Division Physical Skills Unit will walk you through the entire Power Test and help you prepare for the Physical Fitness Incentive Award Program administered in October. A certified gym staff instructor will monitor and time your events and gauge your current fitness level. You will then be provided with training tips on ways to improve. Starting in July, this class will meet every Thursday at 10:30am and 6:30pm inside the Academy gym. Sworn members may elect to participate voluntarily, during off-duty hours, and without compensation. Injuries, sickness or death will not result in an IOD. Register through E-learning.
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"What Teens Need to Know" Program Provides Outreach to CPD Students
Suzanne Le Mignot of Channel 2 covered the "What Teens Need to Know Program". The full story can be seen at the link below:
http://cbs2chicago.com/local/what.teens.need.2.1757690.html
The Chicago Police Department (CPD), Cook County State's Attorney's Office (CCSAO), Circuit Court of Cook County and the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) have partnered together to provide Chicago Public School (CPS) students a dynamic and educational program to combat criminal activity including gangs, guns and drugs. The inaugural presentation was held at Robeson High School located at 6835 South Normal in the Englewood community several months ago.
A modified version of the "What Teens Need to Know" program has been used for the past several years in high schools in the north and northwest suburbs and has been highly successful. After joining forces with CPS and CPD, the program has been tailored to reach CPS students. The program is 90 minutes long and consists of presentations by a judge, assistant state's attorney, narcotics or gang officer and a recovering addict or former gang member. "The goal of the program is to provide the students with as much practical information as possible about the social, legal, academic, occupational and financial consequences of high risk behaviors to which they may not otherwise have access to", states presenter Judge Peggy Chiampas who is currently assigned to the courthouse at 26th and California.
The program topics include the risks inherent with illegal substance use and other criminal and/or destructive behaviors often associated with young adults. An emphasis on gang involvement and gun violence is addressed as well. CPD officers will also serve as mentors for the students.
The CPD, CPS, CCSAO, IDOC and Circuit Court of Cook County plan on bringing this program to many more CPS schools over the next year. "We want to show young people that the police are not just there to arrest people, officers can also provide assistance and advocacy; arrest is typically the last resort and a temporary remedy for a larger problem" states Superintendent Jody Weis.
If you have a question that you would like me to respond to, please be sure to post it in the "Superintendent's Q & A" section, the button on the right will take you directly to that post.
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Area 4 Ride to Remember
If you have a question that you would like me to respond to, please be sure to post it in the "Superintendent's Q & A" section, the button on the right will take you directly to that post.
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