In a disturbing, anti-democratic combination, the federal government is simultaneously trying to bury the number of police shootings happening around the country while criminalizing opposition to this violence. How have we reached a point where the government so blatantly flouts democratic norms? The Guardian reports that the government’s “effort” to document police shootings of civilians… Read More
Our fears of the rise of a police-state are fed by the numerous stories in the media about TSA officials searching travelers’ cellphones and police officers taking protesters’ phones. It is now more important than ever to explore what rights we have to protect our privacy. Think about how much personal information most of us have on our… Read More
Attorneys for long-time National Lawyers Guild legal observer Jerry Boyle filed suit in federal court today to challenge the sweeping use of “Stingray” cell phone spying devices by Chicago Police. The suit, which aims to be certified as a class action, alleges that the stingray devices are frequently used without warrants or any official guidance,… Read More
As many of us band together to figure out how to minimize the damage our new president-elect can cause, I want to pass on some useful cautionary information about government surveillance. Much of the opposition research and connection is happening online. Given that reality, let’s understand the frightening extent of government/law enforcement surveillance and the need… Read More
The 2016 Presidential Election marks a turning point on the nation’s view on police brutality. Historically, the issue of police reform is rarely covered during presidential debates. With increased coverage of national police misconduct scandals and Black Lives Matter demonstrations, Americans have become more skeptical of law enforcement and are demanding a national conversation about… Read More
In the aftermath of highly publicized police shootings, a number of states around the country have enacted reforms requiring special prosecutors to investigate police shootings, and many other states are considering them. Chicago, more so than any other jurisdiction, needs to implement this reform. The demand for special prosecutors is a result of the following… Read More
FOIA Suit Aims to End Secrecy About CPD Use of Controversial ‘Stringray’ Cell Phone Snooping Devices Chicago, IL – A court is scheduled to hear oral arguments at 11 AM, Monday, Nov. 23rd in Room 2502 of the Daley Center about whether the Chicago Police Department (CPD) should be forced to reveal information about its… Read More
