CPD District Organizational Chart
Organization Chart
Beat Cop or Patrol Officer
Beat cops are the frontline officers responsible for patrolling specific geographic areas within a police district. These officers are responsible for maintaining a visible presence in their assigned areas, responding to calls for assistance, conducting investigations, and enforcing laws and regulations. They are the first point of contact with the community and handle daily law enforcement duties.
CAPS & CAPS Officers
(Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy) a community-based policing strategy aimed at fostering communication and cooperation between the police and the public, officers work closely with the community to address ongoing issues and develop proactive solutions, possibly the same rank as beat cops. They focus on building relationships, conducting community meetings, and collaborating with residents to enhance public safety. CAPS officers may be assigned to teams of 8 to 9 officers who patrol specific beats within the city, and they work closely with community members to address local issues and develop problem-solving strategies. While CAPS officers may have additional responsibilities related to community engagement, they may hold the same rank as beat cops.
District Coordination Officers
DCO’s Provide support and coordination within a specific police district. They work to ensure effective communication and collaboration among various units and personnel within the district. DCOs are part of a community outreach program that provides police officers with an additional way to help people in the neighborhoods they protect. The role of DCOs is to facilitate a new policing strategy that shifts away from traditional law enforcement methods and focuses on community engagement and problem-solving. District Coordination Officers are part of the department's District Coordination Program. They are readily available via direct connection and they work by sector - These are generally non-911 calls for support.
Sergeant
Sergeants are responsible for supervising and managing the daily activities, handling officer relations, and other elements of the police station's operation within a specific unit or district. They provide guidance, training, and leadership to officers, ensure that they adhere to departmental policies, and provide guidance and support to their subordinates and ultimately ensure that operations run smoothly.
Possibly overseeing investigations, ensuring adherence to department policies, and providing guidance and support to their subordinates. A Sergeant may be employed when the leading lieutenant leaves for the day. They provide low-level management and report directly to the station lieutenant. These roles are typically directly above the beat cops and DCO's.
Lieutenant
Lieutenants are responsible for supervising and managing various aspects of police operations. They may be responsible for overseeing multiple units within a district, manage resources and work schedules, overseeing departmental cases, book and process criminals, enforce departmental policies, address community concerns, and assisting with detective work. lieutenants report to higher-ranking officers such as Captains or Commanders and are ultimately responsible for managing the daily operations of their assigned units.
Deputy Commander
The Deputy Commander generally refers to an individual who is authorized to act on behalf of a superior officer, such as a Chief or Commander. A Deputy Chief plays a crucial role in managing and supervising various aspects of the district's operations. Their responsibilities may include overseeing personnel, coordinating resources, and ensuring that the district's policing strategies align with the overall goals and objectives of the Chicago Police Department, supervise multiple lieutenants, and play a significant role in decision-making and strategic planning. Additionally, Deputy Chiefs may be involved in policy development, human resources, and other administrative tasks that contribute to the effective functioning of the district office. Last of all, a deputy may be responsible for conducting investigations, arresting criminals, performing regular patrols, responding to calls for assistance, and supporting citizens in emergencies on an as needed basis.
District Commanders
District Commanders hold the highest rank within a police district. They have ultimate responsibility for the district's operations, personnel, and community engagement efforts. District Commanders work closely with other departments and stakeholders to ensure public safety and address community needs.
Strategic Decision Support Center
Special Teams (SDSCs): The Strategic Decision Support Center man and manages the high-tech tools. Predictive analytics and data-driven strategies are some of the tools they draw upon to help fight violent crime and improve public safety. They can providing real-time crime analysis and data-driven decision-making support to district-level police operations. SDSCs serve as command and control centers, helping staff gain awareness of ongoing events in their districts and decide on appropriate responses. Civilian analysts, including those from the Crime Lab, are embedded within CPD districts as part of the SDSC strategy. These analysts work closely with district commanders and officers to inform district strategies and enhance overall operational efficiency. The specific titles within the SDSC can vary, and may include a mix of police officers, supervisors, and civilian analysts working together and they typically collaborate under the leadership of district commanders.
Intelligence Unit
"Intelligence Unit" is a specialist based out of the 21st District. The unit is responsible for investigating the most serious and complex crimes within the city of Chicago.