Two months after the retirement of former police Superintendent Larry Snelling, Chicago residents have expressed their priorities for the next chief of the Chicago Police Department. According to Sharon Pincham, president of the West Chesterfield Community Association, the community relies heavily on the police for various concerns. She highlighted the community’s preference for police presence during issues rather than social workers.
The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) is collecting public input to identify key qualities for the superintendent role. The deadline to submit three finalists to Mayor Brandon Johnson is November 12. During five listening sessions across the city, residents shared feedback to shape the interview questions for the candidates.
CCPSA President Remel Terry emphasized the need for a leader who understands Chicago’s progress and is ready to build on it. The department aims for strong reforms, safety, and accountability.
“Chicago deserves a superintendent who understands the progress our city has made and is ready to build on it,” said CCPSA President Remel Terry.
Residents called for thorough police training and adherence to the consent decree, with some expressing concern over the department’s relationship with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. A local leader with a deep understanding of Chicago was favored by many.
CCPSA will finalize its nominees during its November 12 meeting. Previous superintendent searches revealed challenges, such as Snelling’s departure and bureaucratic differences within CCPSA. Former President Anthony Driver Jr. requested more search time, but the effort did not succeed. There is uncertainty regarding who the next superintendent will answer to, especially with an upcoming mayoral election.
Fred Waller, a longtime CPD veteran, was named interim superintendent by Mayor Johnson as the search unfolds.
Community Dynamics
Prior to CCPSA’s August 27 meeting, the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression held a rally urging the removal of Commissioner Sandra Wortham from a working group due to perceived corruption in the police department.
“Commissioner Sandra Wortham comes to this meeting every month and gives speeches claiming that those of us who show up here to demand … do not represent the community,” Jasmine Smith of CAARPR said.
Activists accused Terry of shielding Wortham from addressing police brutality. Wortham defended herself against the critique, claiming the effort was an attack on democracy and debate.
CCPSA approved a bylaw change to allow any four commissioners to add items to meeting agendas, though discussions of no-confidence in Terry did not result in votes.
Differing Priorities
A meeting at Morgan Park High School revealed generational differences in priorities. Younger attendees focused on officer discipline and training, while older attendees emphasized experienced officers remaining in areas most affected by crime.
The next superintendent must address varying violence trends across neighborhoods and comply with the existing consent decree. Alderman Raymond Lopez suggested a “back to basics” approach to tackle shootings involving gangs and illegal activity.
“We need to get back to common sense and doing what we know works,” Lopez said.