From Chicago Sun-Times · · 2m
Chicago approves $260.8m for 17 police abuse victims
Chicago city council approves $260.8 million settlement for 17 victims of police abuse by corrupt ex-officer Reynaldo Guevara.
In brief
Chicago city council approves $260.8 million settlement for 17 victims of police abuse by corrupt ex-officer Reynaldo Guevara. Chicago city council approved $260.8 million to settle 17 victims of police abuse by ex-officer Reynaldo Guevara who fabricated murder cases. Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Chicago city council approves $260.8m settlement
Chicago’s city council approved a $260.8 million settlement for 17 victims of police abuse by corrupt ex-officer Reynaldo Guevara.
Guevara fabricated murder cases
Reynaldo Guevara, a former Chicago police detective, fabricated murder cases for 17 victims who were later convicted of murder.
17 victims in prison for 22.6 years
The 17 victims spent an average of 22.6 years in prison before their convictions were overturned.
43 people exonerated
43 people, including three women, were exonerated after being convicted of murder in cases handled by Guevara in the 1980s and 1990s.
Settlement covers 16 civil cases
The settlement resolves 16 civil cases of police misconduct and pays $65 million per year over two years.
Guevara's cases cost more than previous settlements
This settlement costs more than the $90 million settlement for 176 victims of ex-sergeant Ronald Watts who fabricated drug cases.
City council faces funding concerns
City council members expressed concerns about funding the settlement, with some questioning if the city has the money to pay it.
Mayor Johnson plans to address pension issue
Mayor Brandon Johnson said he would explore state law changes to stop Guevara from receiving a police pension.
Legal advisor warns of jury verdicts
Jessica Felker, the city’s legal advisor, warned that jury verdicts could cost over $1 billion in future cases.
Guevara's pension remains
Guevara continues to receive a police pension despite not being convicted of any crime.
Settlement payment timeline
The $260.8 million settlement will be paid in four installments of $65 million each starting in 2027.
City council pushes for more settlements
The city council has pushed for similar settlements for the remaining 23 cases involving Guevara.
Guevara's cases cost more than previous settlements
This settlement is the most expensive in Chicago Police Department history, surpassing previous settlements by over $210 million.
Legal advisor praised for settlement
Former legal advisor Mary Richardson-Lowry praised for securing the settlement as she left her position.
What it means
Chicago city council approved $260.8 million to settle 17 victims of police abuse by ex-officer Reynaldo Guevara who fabricated murder cases.
