Criminal Justice
The Kim Foxx effect: how prosecutions have changed in Cook County
The state’s attorney promised to transform the office. Data shows she’s dismissed thousands of felonies that would have been pursued in the past.
Race and Culture
Five things to read or watch for 50th anniversary of Fred Hampton’s murder by police
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A roundup of coverage marking 50 years since Illinois Black Panthers Party leaders were killed by Chicago police, an event that’s had lasting repercussions for the city and country.
Government and Politics
Marijuana dispensary rollout illustrates fears that social equity measures are just blowing smoke
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As legalization looms, Chicago’s Black Caucus voices concerns that the emerging recreational pot industry is rigged for white operators.
Investigations
Economic Development
Alternative energy scams hit poor blacks and Latinos the hardest, complaints show
Thousands are misled into switching suppliers in the hopes of saving money but instead see their utility bills spike, sometimes driving them into debt.
Settling for Misconduct
Chicago police use ‘cover charges’ to justify excessive force
Our analysis shows a troubling pattern of officers charging alleged victims of police misconduct with aggravated battery or assault to a police officer or resisting arrest.
Unequal Discipline
Women in prison punished more harshly than men around the country
Female prison inmates are being disciplined at much higher rates than men for lower-level offenses in many states.