Citizens Alert

Basic reforms have been identified for decades as important steps toward protecting rights and improving police accountability and conduct.

A defense of life policy: Permits officers to shoot only when a life is endangered.

Less than lethal force: Requires training officers in the use of non-lethal weapons to enable them to take suspects into custody without shooting.

Civilian oversight of complaints: An independent agency with a well trained staff and a transparent process is necessary for objectivity and public trust.

Videotaping of interrogations: In 2003, the Illinois General Assembly passed legislation, mandating the electronic recording of interrogations in homicide cases. Citizens Alert works toward strengthening this requirement by promoting mandatory videotaping.

Police Board reform: Citizens Alert spearheaded the recent efforts to reform civilian oversight of police complaints which includes the need for more transparency from the Chicago Police Board and broader community participation serving on the Board.