FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 7, 2021
COPA RELEASES VIDEO AND OTHER MATERIALS OF OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING NEAR 5200 S. MONITOR INVOLVING OFFICER JOSEPH CABRERA
Today, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) released video and other materials of the off duty shooting by Officer Joseph Cabrera which occurred on October 13, 2020 near 5200 S. Monitor. As reported yesterday, criminal charges have been filed by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office against Officer Cabrera in connection with this shooting incident.
During yesterday’s bond hearing, Judge Susana Ortiz denied defense attorney’s request to withhold release of video and other related materials and thus COPA is no longer barred from release. Today’s release includes relevant body-worn video, OEMC transmissions, 3rd party video, 911 calls, Shotspotter audio, and Case Incident and Tactical Response Reports, which can be viewed by visiting https://www.chicagocopa.org/case/2020-4697.
On December 10, 2020 the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office requested an extension in the release of these materials which was approved by the Department setting the new release date for Friday, January 8, 2021.
Investigative efforts to date reveal this shooting was preceded by a verbal altercation between Officer Cabrera and another individual ultimately resulting in the officer discharging his firearm in the direction of the civilian(s). There were no reported injuries. On October 16, 2020, COPA made notification to the Cook County State’s Attorney and the Superintendent regarding the need for a criminal review of this matter.
COPA’s administrative investigation into Officer Cabrera’s use of deadly force has concluded. COPA continues to investigate the actions of responding officers in the aftermath of the shooting.
COPA remains committed to conducting a full and thorough administrative investigation of this officer involved shooting and the actions taken by the officers in the aftermath. COPA’s Summary Report of Investigation (SRI) regarding this incident will be publicly posted on COPA’s website upon conclusion of the investigation, following the Department’s review and the serving of any resulting disciplinary charges against involved officers.
If anyone has information regarding this incident or relevant video, please contact 312-743-COPA (2672) or email COPA-info@chicagocopa.org.
MEDIA CONTACT: Ephraim Eaddy – ephraim.eaddy@chicagocopa.org – 312-771-3718