Chicago police union president criticizes prosecutor's decision-making

[September 20, 2023]  By Andrew Hensel | The Center Square

(The Center Square) – Law enforcement officials are calling out Cook County State's Attorney Kim Foxx for her handling of a migrant who allegedly attacked a Chicago police officer.

One incident happened last week during a protest in the city outside the 8th District police station where it is alleged that a 21-year-old woman attacked several officers while she blocked the road.

On Monday, Foxx dismissed the three felony charges.

Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7 President John Catanzara said this is once again another reason why Foxx should be gone.

"Kim Foxx drops the charges, the three felony charges, on the 21-year-old migrant female who attacked several of our officers outside the 8th District after protesting and blocking traffic," Catanzara said. "You can't make this up. There is no rhyme or reason, no explanation, not even a courtesy call."

Foxx is not seeking reelection.

In a separate case Monday with the end of money bond, another migrant was let go from jail after allegedly assaulting police during Mexican Independence Day celebrations this past weekend in Chicago.

Cook County State's Attorney Kim Foxx during a news event in Chicago. - YouTube / Cook County Government

“Reports that on the very first day of no cash bail, a violent offender arrested for attacking four Chicago Police Officers, sending two of them to the hospital, was immediately released because the Cook County State's Attorney's Office didn't even bother to file a motion to seek detaining the accused are problematic," said Illinois Senate Minority Leader John Curran, R-Downers Grove. "This highlights the misplaced priorities of Illinois' criminal justice system when the prosecutor prioritizes the freedom of a violent offender over the safety of those police officers dedicated to protecting and serving our communities. Is there any wonder why police recruitment is at an all-time low in this state?"

Catanzara said his officers deserve better and believes charges need to be made by the Cook County State's Attorney's office.

"Our officers deserve so much better to not have to be working in this environment but then be assaulted by some of these criminals, and nothing gets done," Catanzara said. "Change can not come soon enough."

Many migrant arrivals have been living in Chicago police stations while awaiting more permanent placement. So far, Chicago and Illinois taxpayers have set aside $94 million for migrant housing. The state budget has $550 million in taxpayer subsidies for the health care of migrants over the age of 65.