POLICE MEMO: No Tats, Caps or Knit Hats, Starting Friday

The Chicago Police Department has issued a new directive that will require Chicago police officers to their tattoos covered while on duty.

“Tattoos and body brandings will not be visible while on duty or representing the Department, whether in uniform, conservative business attire, or casual dress,” according to a police memo acquired by the Chicago Tribune.

Police officers will be required to cover tattoos showing on areas not covered by the uniform, such as the face, neck and hands, with “matching skin tone adhesive bandage or tattoo cover up tape.”

The order goes into effect on Friday, the Tribune said.

The directive also applies to caps and knit hats worn as part of the uniform.

No one appears to know what prompted the directive.