What is a consent decree?

A consent decree is a court order that establishes an enforceable plan for sustainable reform. Typically, consent decrees are detailed documents that include specific requirements and deadlines for action. Police consent decrees in other cities around the country have required an independent monitor. The independent monitor needs to be approved by a federal judge. Once the federal judge approves the independent monitor, that monitor is charged with measuring the police department’s progress by making sure the police department implements the changes required in the consent decree. The independent monitor reports to the federal judge. The federal judge oversees the police department’s compliance with the consent decree and holds the department and the city accountable for satisfying the consent decree’s requirements.

What does the consent decree require?

The consent decree requires the Chicago Police Department and the City of Chicago to reform training, policies, and practices in a number of important areas, such as use of force, community policing, impartial policing, training, accountability, officer wellness, data and information systems, and more. The goal is to ensure that the CPD performs constitutional and effective policing that keeps both community members and officers safe and restores the community’s trust in the Department.

What progress has CPD made?

To see a visualization of the Department’s progress in implementing the requirements of the consent decree, visit the Consent Decree Compliance Dashboard.