Chicago, IL – The Chicago police officer who fatally shot his partner, Officer Krystal Rivera, during a foot chase earlier this summer has been formally stripped of his police powers, the Chicago Police Department (CPD) confirmed this week.
While CPD did not provide a detailed explanation for the move, the department stated the action was taken in accordance with internal procedures. The incident that claimed Rivera’s life in June has been described by officials as “accidental,” though her family has called for an independent review.
The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA), which investigates allegations of police misconduct, last updated the public on June 9, stating its investigation into Rivera’s death remains ongoing.
Family Voices Longstanding Concerns
Rivera’s relatives and legal representatives issued a statement welcoming the decision but underscoring their belief that the officer—identified by them as Carlos Baker—should never have been in uniform.
“While we believe removing Carlos Baker’s police powers is the right step, we called for this from the earliest days after he fatally shot Krystal,” the statement read. “Our concerns about his conduct predate that night. The City chose to keep him on the force despite clear warning signs. If proper action had been taken, Krystal would still be with us.”
New Allegations Surface
The decision to relieve the officer of his powers comes amid an unrelated but troubling accusation. On August 10, an off-duty female CPD officer reported being assaulted outside DSTRKT Bar & Grill in Wicker Park. Sources told WGN-TV that the male officer allegedly involved was the same one who shot Rivera.
According to those sources, the off-duty officer was waiting for an Uber when she was confronted by the male officer and an unidentified woman. She claimed they demanded she delete videos from her phone before a verbal dispute escalated into a physical attack. The victim reported facial injuries, including a lip wound that required stitches.
It is unclear what was captured in the videos. The police union has not yet commented on the allegations. COPA confirmed it has opened a preliminary investigation into the incident.
Officer’s Legal Response
The relieved officer’s attorney has pushed back against the allegations, calling the accounts “hyperbole” and “misinformation.” He insisted his client was not part of a bar fight and expressed confidence that the full body of evidence would clear him of wrongdoing.
Broader Implications for CPD
The dual controversies highlight ongoing challenges for CPD, which has faced sustained public scrutiny over accountability and officer conduct. Rivera’s death, in particular, has struck a chord within the department, as she was a young officer remembered for her dedication and camaraderie.
As investigations into both matters continue, COPA has reiterated its commitment to transparency, urging patience while evidence is reviewed.
