(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The investigation into claims of sexual misconduct by Chicago police officers with migrants has concluded, without any evidence of wrongdoing found, according to the city’s police oversight agency.
The Civilian Office of Police Accountability on Friday said its investigators were not able to substantiate claims of impropriety between officers assigned to the 10th and 19th districts and any asylum seekers sheltering at police stations.
“COPA has concluded its investigative efforts and the case will be closed without allegations or findings of misconduct. Should new material evidence be received, COPA has the authority to re-open this investigation,” the watchdog agency said in a news release.
COPA investigators in July began looking into the allegations – received from a city employee – that an officer had impregnated an underage migrant at the 10th District station, followed by a similar claim involving the 19th District, officials said.
Their broad canvass included talking with migrants and residents and formally interviewing police officers, COPA said.
“COPA investigators interviewed all available persons who were identified; however, those efforts did not result in the identity of any victims or witnesses,” the news release said.
The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7 that represents Chicago police officers had been critical of the investigation and the way it was announced to the public. President John Catanzara likened the process to a witch hunt.
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