Chicago Police Blotter: Watts Officers Still Receiving Pay despite Allegations of Wrongdoing

A recent investigation into alleged wrongdoing by a group of Chicago police officers has sparked outrage and questions about why it is taking so long to resolve the issue. The officers, who were placed on desk duty in November 2017, have been paid an estimated total of at least $4 million in salary, overtime, and other benefits since then.

The investigation centers around Ronald Watts, a disgraced sergeant who was convicted of stealing from residents at the Ida B. Wells housing project. Watts' team was accused of shakedowns and framing of residents, with over 200 convictions now agreed upon by prosecutors to have been set up by officers under Watts' command.

Despite being tainted and deemed unfit to testify in criminal cases, eight of these officers remain on the force and are still receiving pay. In fact, since the letter was sent out by the Cook County State's Attorney's office stating that they would never again be called to testify in a criminal case, these officers have continued to draw a paycheck.

'It's taking too long,' said Tyrone Fenton, who served two years in prison after being framed by Watts' team. 'You're still getting paid to actually not be a cop?'

Fenton's sentiments were echoed by others who have been affected by the scandal. The fact that these officers are still receiving pay while the investigation drags on has sparked widespread criticism.

The Chicago Police Department has maintained its policy of not calling these officers in cases that are pending before the courts, and State's Attorney Kim Foxx has reiterated this stance. 'Our office continues to maintain the policy of not calling these officers in cases that are pending before the courts today,' she said during a news conference earlier this year.

In total, it is estimated that the remaining eight Watts officers have been paid at least $4 million since being placed on desk duty. This figure does not include the cost of investigations and legal fees incurred by the city and taxpayers.

As the investigation into these allegations continues to unfold, many are left wondering when justice will finally be served for those affected by this scandal. One thing is clear: it is unacceptable that these officers continue to receive pay while their alleged wrongdoing remains unaddressed.

Chicago police blotter may 10