Crossing guards petitioning to be switched back to Chicago police command

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago crossing guards are demanding they be switched back to Chicago Police Department command.

The guards had been CPD members for more than 60 years before the department budget switched to the Office of Emergency Management and Communications in the city's 2016 budget.

But in the last few months, guards have received more than 17,000 signatures on petitions from city residents to make the move back.

They say the OEMC badge does not demand the same respect as a CPD badge.

"It shows respect and we need that at the corner," said 9th District crossing guard Vicki Sanchez. "It shows authority and we definitely need that at the corner. It shows the drivers that the children come first."

A resolution will be heard by the City Council. Aldermen hope to have a decision by October.