A lingering question in Laquan McDonald shooting

The Chicago Police Board, by firing four officers in the Laquan McDonald case, has spoken. But there is an important point that is not being addressed: Not one supervisor above the rank of sergeant has been fired or disciplined in any way with respect to the McDonald shooting.

During 33 years as a Chicago police officer and over three years as a Marine, it was drilled into my head that leadership always starts at the top. It’s a fantasy to conclude that one lowly sergeant had the sole responsibility to sign off on such a critical investigation, yet that’s the message that’s being sent.

Supervisors are paid handsomely to do their job, but ultimately, it seems going after the low-hanging fruit is the easy way out. There are at least six layers of supervision above the rank of police sergeant, but where were they that night and why were they not held accountable? Until command supervisors are held responsible for the actions of their subordinates, more such incidents will continue to plague an alreadybeleaguered department.

Supervision is a tough job, that’s why the pay and prestige are what they are. Covering up or running for cover in the face of tough decisions is cowardly, and the good, hard-working men and women of the rank and file deserve the best leadership.

Where were the command officers? That’s a question that must be asked at every incident.

Bob Angone, retired Chicago police lieutenant, Miramar Beach, Florida

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