FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 4, 2023
COPA CONCLUDES INVESTIGATION INTO DEATH OF MS. IRENE CHAVEZ WHILE IN CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT 3RD DISTRICT CUSTODY
The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) has concluded its investigation and delivered its Final Summary Report (FSR), investigative materials, and disciplinary recommendations to the Chicago Police Department, regarding the death of Ms. Irene Chavez while in Chicago Police Department 3rd District custody on December 18, 2021.
On December 18, 2021, at 3:20 am, COPA received notification from CPD of an attempted suicide by Ms. Chavez at a 3rd District Tactical Office. A second notification sent by the Department, updating COPA on the status of Ms. Chavez, provided information regarding her death while in custody. Prior to being taken into custody, Ms. Chavez’s arrest stemmed from an incident that occurred at the Jeffery Pub Tavern located at 7041 S. Jeffery Boulevard.
COPA investigators conducted 27 interviews across various departments as a part of its thorough review of the actions of all involved officers as well as the circumstances leading up to the incident. Due to significant public interest, in consultation with the family, Chief Administrator Andrea Kersten determined a discretionary public release of video and other materials necessary which further demonstrates COPA’s commitment to independence and transparency.
Materials were posted to our website on February 16, 2022, and included body-worn camera, OEMC transmissions, Case Incident, Tactical Response and Arrest reports. Materials can be viewed by visiting https://www.chicagocopa.org/case/2021-5001
COPA’s ordinance requires the Superintendent to respond within 60 days, though the Superintendent may request to extend the review period for up to 30 additional days, for a total review period not to exceed 90 days.
The Superintendent’s response to any COPA recommendations of discipline or other remedial action, if applicable, will determine the extent of the additional review processes that follow. These review processes may include, but are not limited to, review by the City of Chicago Department of Law, hearing before the Chicago Police Board, grievance filings, and arbitration.
COPA will post its Final Summary Report (FSR), which will include COPA’s analysis of the evidence and investigative findings and recommendations, on its website upon the conclusion of the Department’s Command Channel Review or, if applicable, following service of disciplinary charges by the Department of Law on any involved officer.
Media Contact:
Jennifer Rottner – Director of News Affairs
Ph: 312-720-8560 / Email: jennifer.rottner@chicagocopa.org