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ProPublica/Invisible Institute Investigation: Chicago Police Department Repeatedly Failed to Adequately Investigate Sexual Assault Allegations Against Officers

Left 0% Center coverage: 3 sources Right

Chicago, Illinois, USA

May 24, 2025 4 Negative General

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Chicago, Illinois, USA: A ProPublica and Invisible Institute investigation reveals that over the past decade, the Chicago Police Department (CPD) often neglected or minimized sexual misconduct complaints against its officers, letting some become serial offenders. At least 14 officers faced multiple serious allegations but stayed on duty. One high-profile case involved an academy recruit who was dismissed after reporting an assault by another recruit, who later faced multiple felony charges. The findings echo a 2017 DOJ report criticizing CPD’s handling of such complaints. Despite a new misconduct policy, implementation lags.

What this means for you:

•	Chicago residents or visitors should be aware of ongoing accountability challenges within CPD.
•	Over 1–3 months, watch if city officials or COPA (Civilian Office of Police Accountability) strengthen oversight.
•	Survivors of police sexual misconduct can seek legal advice and share stories anonymously if comfortable.
•	In the meantime, support community demands for transparent disciplinary proceedings and outside review of sexual assault claims.

Key Entities

• Chicago Police Department (CPD): Facing renewed scrutiny for repeated handling failures of assault accusations.
• ProPublica & Invisible Institute: Investigative outlets revealing systemic issues.
• Alexus Byrd-Maxey: Former recruit who says she was fired after reporting assault.

Bias Distribution

Left: 100% (3 sources)

Center: 0% (0 sources)

Right: 0% (0 sources)

Multi-Perspective Analysis

Left-Leaning View

Calls for stronger reforms and accountability in law enforcement.

Centrist View

(No coverage).

Right-Leaning View

(No coverage).

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