Police Accountability - Cook County State's Attorney Candidate Questionnaire

As State’s Attorney, would you support the requirement for independent investigations not only in cases where a police officer kills a civilian, but also in cases where a police officer seriously injures a civilian, or stands accused of serious behavior outside their authority/scope of their duties including misconduct, repeated or excessive use of force or activity that violates the civil rights of civilians? Do you support the appointment of a special prosecutor for any case in which there may be a referral for possible prosecution?

BURKE: As State’s Attorney, I am committed to safeguarding the integrity of our legal system and ensuring accountability for all, including law enforcement personnel. It is clear that the participation of law enforcement officers is pivotal in the prosecution process, and their credibility is essential in achieving justice for victims. However, when officers engage in misconduct or violate the law, it undermines our ability to prosecute effectively and damages public confidence in the justice system. Therefore, I fully endorse implementing measures to address and prevent misconduct among law enforcement officers. This includes supporting the necessity for independent investigations not only in cases where a police officer causes the death of a civilian, but also in instances where serious injury occurs or when officers are accused of behavior beyond the scope of their duties. Instances of misconduct, repeated or excessive use of force, or any violations of civilian civil rights must be thoroughly examined to ensure accountability and maintain public trust.

Additionally, I advocate for the appointment of a special prosecutor for any case involving potential prosecution of law enforcement officers. This ensures impartiality and helps avoid conflicts of interest, thereby enabling a fair and unbiased assessment of each case. Ultimately, my foremost goal as State’s Attorney is to uphold the core principles of justice, fairness, and accountability. By implementing robust measures to address law enforcement misconduct and ensuring independent oversight in cases requiring potential prosecution, we can work towards a legal system that is transparent, accountable, and equitable for all.

What additional steps will you take as State’s Attorney to enhance police accountability and build much-needed trust between the police and the public they serve?

BURKE: There absolutely has to be a solid working relationship between the State’s Attorney's office and the police. The police are the main, if not the sole witness, in each and every criminal prosecution. They are responsible for gathering all of the evidence, witnesses, and statements which form a prosecution.  Establishing a robust and trustworthy partnership between the State’s Attorney’s office and the police is crucial for public safety and justice. I recognize the hard and dangerous work of law enforcement. I see room for mass improvement in our collaborative efforts.

For example, I fully support regular meetings and training sessions so that both the officers and the state’s attorneys are well-versed in the law and in courtroom proceedings. No one should go into a court of law not knowing what the law is or how the proceedings will transpire. Additionally, implementing community policing strategies, where prosecutors and officers collaborate closely with communities, will build trust and enhance the effectiveness of the criminal justice system. Strengthening these connections is crucial for promoting accountability, fairness, and ensuring a safer and more just society.

As State’s Attorney, would you support the requirement for independent investigations not only in cases where a police officer kills a civilian, but also in cases where a police officer seriously injures a civilian, or stands accused of serious behavior outside their authority/scope of their duties including misconduct, repeated or excessive use of force or activity that violates the civil rights of civilians? Do you support the appointment of a special prosecutor for any case in which there may be a referral for possible prosecution?

FIORETTI: AWAITING CANDIDATE'S RESPONSE

What additional steps will you take as State’s Attorney to enhance police accountability and build much-needed trust between the police and the public they serve?

FIORETTI: AWAITING CANDIDATE'S RESPONSE

As State’s Attorney, would you support the requirement for independent investigations not only in cases where a police officer kills a civilian, but also in cases where a police officer seriously injures a civilian, or stands accused of serious behavior outside their authority/scope of their duties including misconduct, repeated or excessive use of force or activity that violates the civil rights of civilians? Do you support the appointment of a special prosecutor for any case in which there may be a referral for possible prosecution?

KOPINSKI: Civilian oversight boards can help achieve 
these goals.  Independent investigators and 
special prosecutors need to be considered. 
More debate on this issue is needed. 

What additional steps will you take as State’s Attorney to enhance police accountability and build much-needed trust between the police and the public they serve?

KOPINSKI: The State’s Attorney will promote community policing and problem solving policing to enhance police accountability and build much needed trust between the police and the public they serve while solving problems in the community.