FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 22, 2021
COPA CONCLUDES INVESTIGATION INTO 2019 INCIDENT OF ALLEGED EXCESSIVE USE OF FORCE AT MARSHALL HIGH SCHOOL
The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) has concluded its investigation involving allegations of excessive force by two members of the Chicago Police Department serving as school resource officers at John Marshall Metropolitan High School. COPA’s findings and recommendations, as stated in its ordinance, (http://www.chicagocopa.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/COPA-Ordinance.pdf), have been forwarded to the Chicago Police Department and are currently pending review.
The incident, which occurred on February 4, 2019, began when high school staff asked the assigned school resource officers to assist in the removal of a disruptive student. Officers’ attempts to remove the student escalated quickly resulting in a combative struggle that included the student being dragged down a flight of stairs and tased, as well as injury to both officers. The incident, which was captured on school security video, was reviewed by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office who dismissed charges against the student for resisting arrest and aggravated battery to a peace officer.
COPA’s investigation into the officers use of force and other allegations as well as findings and recommendations, will be included in the Summary Report of Investigation (SRI) and posted on COPA’s website for review by the public upon the conclusion of the Department’s review and after any involved officers have been served with any resulting charges.
MEDIA CONTACT: Ephraim Eaddy – ephraim.eaddy@chicagocopa.org – 312-771-3718