High ranking CPD official James Sanchez steps down after officers' alleged roles in bar party that violated COVID-19 regulations

Garfield ridge bar cited last month
Thursday, February 25, 2021
CHICAGO (WLS) -- A high ranking official in the Chicago Police Department resigned after a party that violated Chicago's COVID-19 rules.

Former Deputy Director of Gang Investigations James Sanchez stepped down, according to CPD.
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This comes after Chicago police opened an internal investigation into some officers' role in a party at a bar. More than 40 maskless people including some police officers were discovered in the bar's back room.

RELATED: CPD investigating officers' alleged roles in bar party that violated Chicago COVID-19 regulations

Guide's Sports Club in the city's Southwest Side Garfield Ridge neighborhood was cited last month for COVID-19 violations at that party.

An anonymous allegation claimed the party was for a retiring commander. The Tribune reported the resignation comes after the Jan. 7 party that was for Sanchez.
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In a statement, the Chicago Police Department said it "takes this incident seriously" and "Department members who are found to have violated the City's COVID orders will be held accountable."

RELATED: 2 more Chicago parties busted on Near North Side for COVID-19 violations

The city of Chicago has cited over 300 businesses for violating various COVID-19 regulations since the pandemic began, officials previously said.



Businesses cited for violating COVID-19 restrictions can receive two citations with a potential fine of up to $10,500, the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection said. If a business repeatedly violates regulations, they may face extended closure of the establishment.
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