CHICAGO (AP) — An initial hearing is scheduled in a major lawsuit that seeks to force Chicago into implementing police reforms under close court supervision.
The hearing Wednesday in Chicago is the first since Black Lives Matter and other community groups filed the class-action suit against the city last week.
The hearing could signal whether Chicago will fight the civil case or cooperate with the groups. Judge John Z. Lee could also begin setting timetables for motions and the production of evidence.
The federal lawsuit is a response to a recent draft deal on police reforms between Chicago and the Justice Department that doesn’t include court oversight. Many reform advocates say court participation is vital.
A report on Chicago police abuses the Justice Department issued in January prompted the city to pledge reform.
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