WILLOW SPRINGS, IL (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - Former Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy, who was fired by then-Mayor Rahm Emanuel during the Laquan McDonald scandal, has been officially named Interim Police Chief in Willow Springs.
McCarthy's name was already on the door when he walked into the Village Hall to be introduced by Mayor Melissa Neddermeyer.
“We wanted a leader with experience, knowledge and professionalism,” the mayor said.
“I couldn’t be happier to be here at this place in time,” expressed McCarthy. “Policing is at a critical, critical moment. It’s pretty clear that it’s time to change course. It’s pretty clear that what we’re doing is not working. Just take a look at Chicago.”
McCarthy noted that the murder rate is up 100% from when he was leading the Chicago department. He admitted there’s a lot more to it than the person leading the police department.
“There’s a move to go from warriors to guardians. You treat people like human beings and you treat them with respect,” said McCarthy
He suggested the chief job in Willow Springs will be the same as serving in that role anywhere. He’s led the New York, Newark and Chicago departments. He said, if anything, the scale, a smaller department will make the job easier because of the ability to have one-on-one connections with the officers.
The position in Willow Springs may be temporary and will last at least six months.
McCarthy was fired by former Mayor Rahm Emanuel in 2015 after the mayor fought the release of video showing Officer Jason Van Dyke shooting 17-year-old LaQuanMcDonald 16 times.
When it was released the city erupted and McCarthy was soon dismissed. He was told by Emanuel he had lost the public trust.
“The erosion of trust, in some cases, starts in city government," McCarthy said.
He has two grown daughters and a new family, with a 5-year-old son. McCarthy is 62.
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