Four aldermen introduced an ordinance Wednesday that would establish a code of conduct for police and the motorists they pull over in response to a recent controversial traffic stop involving state Sen. James Meeks.
Meeks accused a white Chicago police sergeant of using profanity and pointing his weapon at him after the African-American minister stepped out of a car during a July 13 stop on the South Side. Meeks contended he was a victim of racial profiling.
“I think sometimes we need to take quick action,” said Ald. Isaac Carothers (28th), chairman of the City Council’s Police and Fire Committee and one of the sponsors.
The measure would help protect motorists “who may not have as much notoriety as Rev. Meeks does,” he said.
But the proposal also is designed to help police by requiring motorists to stay in their vehicles during stops, sponsors said.
“Hopefully this will go a long way toward educating the public about what is expected of them, but remind officers how they should conduct themselves,” said Ald. Edward Burke (14th), another co-sponsor.
The ordinance would require officers to “approach the motorist in a cautious, safety-minded manner” and “politely inform the driver of the reason and purpose of the traffic stop,” addressing the driver by name and “appropriate title” (Mr., Ms.) after examining his or her license.
Motorists would be required to pull over immediately, provide appropriate ID, keep hands visible and remain in their vehicles.
Burke planned to propose a fine of at least $100 for violators, including police, although officers more likely would be subject to department disciplinary action.
