7 Chicago Officers Linked To Corrupt Ex-Cop Now On Desk Duty

CHICAGO, IL — Seven Chicago police officers linked to a corrupt former sergeant have been removed from street duties. The decision came after Cook County prosecutors dropped all charges against 15 men who were arrested by former Sgt. Ronald Watts and his officers. Chicago Police Supt. Eddie Johnson said the officers' roles in the convictions of the 15 men are being reviewed.

"They have due process and rights just like any citizen in this country. If the day comes where they are convicted of something, they won't be on the job. But we just can't arbitrarily take the job away from people," Johnson said.

Police Board President Lori Lightfoot said that the officers who were connected to Watts "must be quickly brought to justice through criminal prosecution and/or disciplinary action."

The lead attorney for the 15 men, Joshua Tepfer, said Watts and his officers targeted men living in South Side housing projects for over a decade. Tepfer said the officers framed the men, falsified police reports and planted drugs on them.

Watts served 22 months in prison.

Image via Chicago Police Department