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Residents and advocates press CPD and police board on federal‑agent conduct, landlord arrests and community investments
Summary
At the April 16 meeting, public commenters urged CPD to investigate alleged misconduct by federal immigration agents, described a landlord’s arrest under tenant‑lockout laws, and highlighted church‑led community investments and parking concerns.
Public commenters used the Chicago Police Board’s April 16, 2026 public comment period to press a range of community concerns, including requests that the Chicago Police Department investigate alleged misconduct by federal immigration agents.
Noel Clinton urged CPD to open an investigation into Border Patrol agent Charles Exum in the shooting of Marimar Martinez, saying federal prosecutions have not produced local investigation and urging CPD to "immediately open an investigation into Charles Exum" (as stated during public comment). Attorney Joanna Raymond told the board she had received FOIA responses indicating CPD had not opened investigations into alleged federal‑agent misconduct during last year’s Midway Blitz and said video and compiled evidence show federal agents engaging in actions that "look like criminal conduct," including assaults and brandishing firearms.
Several residents described adverse experiences with CPD response. A commenter identified in the record as Aria Williams described being arrested under tenant‑lockout laws after a tenant reported a power outage; she said officers would not allow time to resolve the matter, that her children were frightened, and that she has filed complaints with multiple agencies.
Community leaders also spoke about neighborhood investments. Eric Hampton, an associate pastor at New Life Covenant Church Southeast, thanked local commanders for parking accommodations, described mitigation measures the church uses (security, signage, traffic plans) and listed community programs and investments the church provided since 2017 (stated in the record as $70 million in investments and program counts provided during his remarks). Pastor Hannah thanked police and described church efforts to buy and repurpose properties for youth programs. Pastor Doyle spoke about addressing Black male mental‑health needs and outreach in neighborhoods affected by violence.
Board President Kyle Cooper encouraged commenters to remain after the meeting to speak with department representatives and reminded the public that the police board posts decisions and updates on its website.
