Jon Burge

Jon Burge

Infobox Person
name = Jon Graham Burge


caption =
birth_date = birth date and age|mf=yes|1947|12|20
birth_place = city-state|Chicago|Illinois
death_date =
death_place =
other_names =
known_for = police brutality
occupation = Police Commander (retired)
residence = city-state|Apollo Beach|Florida
nationality = American
ethnicity = Caucasian
citizenship = United States
education = Bowen High School University of Missouri (one semester)
alma_mater =
employer = Chicago Police Department
title = Detective Commander
salary = $60,000 (1991)
predecessor =
successor =
parents =

Chicago Police Commander Jon Graham Burge (born December 20, 1947) is a former Chicago Police Department detective and decorated United States Army soldier who has gained notoriety for allegedly torturing more than 200 criminal suspects between 1972 and 1991, in order to force confessions. He served tours in South Korea and in the Vietnam War after extensive training that began in Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps and continued as an enlisted United States Army Reserve soldier where he was trained for and served in the military police. He then returned to the South Side of Chicago and began his career as a Police officer. He rose through the ranks in units that seemed to solve every case they handled. Various allegations arose about the methodologies of Burge and those under his command. Eventually, the weight of hundreds of similar stories caused Illinois Governor George Ryan to declare a moratorium on death penalty executions in Illinois in 2000 and clear the state's death row in 2003.

The most controversial arrests began in February 1982 at a time when a series of shootings of Chicago law enforcement officials caused a turbulent time in Police Area 2 whose detective squad Burge commanded. Some of the people who confessed to murder were later granted new trials, and a few were even acquitted or pardoned. Burge was acquitted of police brutality charges in 1989 after a first trial resulted in a hung jury. As a result of an internal Police Department review and hearing, Burge was suspended from the Chicago Police Department in 1991 and fired in 1993. Having never been convicted of a felony, Burge lives in Florida and continues to receive a police pension to which he is entitled under Illinois state law.

In 2002, a special prosecutor began investigating the accusations. The review, which cost $17 million, revealed improprieties that resulted in no action due to the statute of limitations. After Burge was fired, there was a groundswell of support to investigate his convictions. Several were reversed, remanded or overturned. Several of those sent to death row as a result of Burge's work, were granted reduced sentences of some form. In fact, all Illinois death row inmates were. Four of Burge's victims were pardoned by then-Governor George Ryan and subsequently filed suit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against the City of Chicago, various police officers, Cook County and various State's Attorneys. The parties consented to have the four cases consolidated and a settlement of $19.8 million dollars was reached in December 2007 with the "city defendants". The cases against Cook County and the other current/former county prosecutors continue as of July 2008.

Early life

Infobox Military Person
name=Jon Burge
born= birth date and age|mf=yes|1947|12|20
died=
placeofbirth=city-state|Chicago|Illinois
placeofdeath=


caption=
nickname=
allegiance=United States of America
branch=United States Army/United States Army Reserve
serviceyears= 1966-1972
rank= sergeant
commands=
unit=Ninth Military Police Company of the Ninth Infantry Division
battles=Vietnam War (South Korea & Vietnam)
awards= Bronze Star Purple Heart Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry Army Commendation Medal
relations=
laterwork=
Raised in the South Deering community area on the Southeast side of Chicago,cite web|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/policetorture/050402|accessdate=2007-10-02|publisher=Chicago Reader|date=2005-02-04 |title=Tools of Torture] Burge was the second eldest son of Floyd and Ethel Burge. Floyd was a blue collar worker of Norwegian descent and Ethel was an aspiring fashionista of mixed Western European descent.Conroy, "The Pain Stays in Your Head," pp. 61] Burge attended Bowen High School where he showed a keen interest in the school's Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps. There he was exposed to military drill, weapons, leadership and military history. When he graduated in 1965 the high school was 93 percent white. He attended the University of Missouri but dropped out after one semester, which ended his draft deferment. He returned to Chicago to work at as a stock clerk in the supermarker chain Jewel in 1966.

In June 1966, Burge enlisted in the army reserve for six years of service, including two years of active duty. He was promised law enforcement duties and reported for basic training at Fort Campbell in Kentucky that fall. After basic training, he placed second out of 99 at a four week drill corporal school Fort McClellan in Alabama. Following this he spent eight weeks at a military police (MP) school in Georgia. He also received some training at Fort Benning where he learned interrogation techniques. He volunteered twice for duty in the Vietnam War. However, he first became an MP trainer and then served as an MP in South Korea, gathering five letters of appreciation from superiors. On June 18, 1968 Burge volunteered for duty in the Vietnam War a second time, and he was assigned to the Ninth Military Police Company of the Ninth Infantry Division. He reported to division headquarters, where he provided security as a sergeant at his division base camp named Dong Tam by William Westmoreland. Burge described his military police service as "escort of convoys, security for forward support bases, supervising security for the divisional central base camp in Dong Tam, and I finished my tour as a provost marshal investigator." During his service he earned a Bronze Star, a Purple Heart, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry and two Army Commendation Medals for valor, for pulling wounded men to safety while under fire. Burge claimed no knowledge of or involvement in prisoner interrogation, brutality or torture. In June 1969 U.S. President Richard Nixon announced large-scale troop withdrawals from Vietnam. Ninth Infantry troops were among the first to leave and Burge was honorably discharged on August 25, 1969.

He returned to his parents' home, took a job as a mechanic and gas station attendant, and watched a population shift in the neighborhood. In 1972, his high school was only 14 percent white. Burge's parents sold their home in 1973.

Police career

Infobox police officer
name = Jon G. Burge


caption =
born = birth date and age|mf=yes|1947|12|20
badgenumber =
placeofbirth = - Chicago, Illinois, USA
nickname =
department = Chicago Police Department
service = United States
serviceyears = 1970-1992
rank = Sworn in as an officer - 1970
Detective - 1972
Sergeant- ?
Lieutenant - ?
Commander (Violent crimes) - 1981
Commander (Bomb & arson) - 1986
Detective Commander - 1988
awards =
relations =
laterwork =
Burge became a police officer in March 1970 at age 22 on the South side of Chicago. In twenty years of service where he developed a reputation for defusing volatile situations, he earned 13 police commendations and a letter of praise from the Department of Justice. In May 1972, he was promoted to detective and assigned to Area 2 (Pullman Area) robbery. He was next promoted to field lieutenant in the Monroe Street District. From 1981–1986 he served as the Commander of the Area 2 Violent Crimes Unit until he was promoted to the Commander of the bomb and arson unit in 1986.cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36D1AC13FD28C&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Burge to head bomb and arson unit |accessdate=2008-07-14|date=1986-08-14|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times] In 1988, Burge became Area 3 (Brighton Park) detective commander. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36DB094C9F2FB&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=51 cops get new jobs in shakeup of Martin staff|accessdate=2008-07-14|date=1988-01-27|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Casey, Jim and Phillip J. O'Connor] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7DB5DE2067BA0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=CITY POLICE CHIEF RESHUFFLES STAFF - ASSAULT ON STREET CRIME IN THE CARDS |accessdate=2008-07-14|date=1988-01-27|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Wattley, Philip]

The turning point

Allegations exist that torture began in 1972.cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB3731E5C31EC46&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Davis urges new review of police brutality cases|accessdate=2008-07-14|date=1990-12-25|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Spielman, Fran] However, the most prominent example occurred in 1982. On February 9, 1982 there was an incident in which a police officer was stripped of his weapon and both he and his partner were fatally shot. [Conroy, "Getting Confessions," pp. 21-2] This incident occurred within the jurisdiction of Burge, who was then a lieutenant and commanding officer of Area 2. The two fatalities brought the total to five officers (including two Cook County Sheriff Officers and a rookie CTA cop in February 5) who had been shot in the convert|60|mi2|km2|sing=on|lk=on area on the South Side within about a month. [Conroy, "Getting Confessions," pp. 23]

The frenzied police effort to seek the most recent assailants in the name of justice may have gone beyond normal police procedures. Some of the initial interrogation procedures allegedly included shooting pets, handcuffing questioning subjects to stationary objects for day-long time periods, and holding guns to the head of minors. Operation PUSH spokesmen, the "Chicago Defender" and Jesse Jackson were outraged with techniques that were used. Jackson complained that the black community was being held under martial law. [Conroy, "Getting Confessions," pp. 23-4] After all of the police excesses, mere coincidence enabled the capture of the suspects. Tyrone Sims identified Donald "Kojak" White as the shooter, and Kojak was linked to Andrew and Jackie Wilson by having committed a burglary with them earlier on the day of the killings. [Conroy, "Getting Confessions," pp. 24]

Torture methods

Andrew Wilson was arrested on the morning of February 14, 1982 for the murder of the two police officers, and by the end of the day, he was in Mercy Hospital and Medical Center with multiple lacerations to his face and scalp, numerous bruises on his chest and what a doctor diagnosed as second-degree burns to his right thigh. It was clear that the suspect, Andrew Wilson, had received sufficient injuries to be sent to the hospital with more than a dozen injuries caused while in police custody. During a two week trial in 1983, Andrew Wilson was convicted of the killing and given a death penalty sentence, while his brother Jackie was convicted as an accomplice and given a life sentence.cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF640A79C01FD89&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=JUDGE`S ERROR MEANS NEW TRIAL IN KILLING OF COPS|accessdate=2008-08-04|date=1985-12-21|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mount, Charles] In 1985, Jackie's conviction was overturned by the Illinois Appellate Court because his right to remain silent had not been properly explained. Because Andrew was given a death sentence, his case was not reviewable on the same grounds by the Appellate Court and went directly to the Illinois Supreme Court. In April 1987, the Supreme Court overturned Andrew's conviction with a ruling that he had confessed involuntarily after being beaten by the police.cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF68411CF68622C&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=VERDICT OVERTURNED IN KILLING OF 2 COPS|accessdate=2008-08-04|date=1987-04-03|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Tybor, Joseph R.] In October 1987, the Appellate court further ruled the Jackie should have been tried separately from his brother and that evidence against Wilson regarding other matters for which the police wanted him was incorrectly admitted.cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36D8A9CCCDFFE&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=2nd brother wins new trial in cop killings|accessdate=2008-08-04|date=1987-10-01|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Cose, Larry] In June 1988, Andrew was re-convicted.cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7DFEF86911DF7&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=MAN IS FOUND GUILTY 2D TIME IN COP KILLINGS|accessdate=2008-08-04|date=1988-06-21|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Seigel, Jessica and Matt O`Connor] However, with 10 women in favor and two men opposed, the jury was unable to agree on his eligibility for the death penalty after five days of deliberation,cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7E026AAA16658&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=COP KILLER SPARED DEATH AS 2 ON JURY HOLD OUT|accessdate=2008-08-04|date=1988-06-28|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Seigel, Jessica and Matt O`Connor] and the following month he was granted a life sentence.cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF7E0904CB0662F&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=ANDREW WILSON GETS LIFE SENTENCE IN KILLING OF COPS|accessdate=2008-08-04|date=1988-07-13|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=O`Connor, Matt]

Seven years after the original arrest, Andrew filed a civil suit stating that he had been beaten, suffocated with a plastic bag, burned (by cigarette and radiator), treated with electric shock, and been the victim of the pattern of a cover up. Although the suit was against four detectives, a former police superintendent and the City of Chicago, it boiled down to a the plaintiff Wilson and commander Burge, who oversaw all of the alleged activity. [Conroy, "The Pain Stays in Your Head," pp. 60-1] Jury selection commenced on February 15, 1989.cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF78657D4C49881&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=POLICE BRUTALITY SUIT HEADS TO TRIAL|accessdate=2008-07-14|date=1989-02-15|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Grady, William] The original two-woman, four-man jury included three blacks and a Hispanic. When Burge took the stand on March 13, 1989, he denied claims he injured Andrew Wilson during questioning and denied any knowledge of any such activity by other officers. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36E431C6B2E61&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Cop denies beating, torture|accessdate=2008-07-14|date=1989-03-14|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Drell, Adrienne] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF78682E6D0296F&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=POLICE OFFICER DENIES TORTURING OF SUSPECT|accessdate=2008-07-14|date=1989-03-14|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Marja ] Gradually, other officers were dismissed of the charges: On March 15, 1989, Sgt. Thomas McKenna was cleared of wrongdoing; [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF786850DE8312A&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=JUDGE CLEARS POLICE OFFICER IN RIGHTS SUIT|accessdate=2008-07-14|date=1989-03-16|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune] and on March 30, 1989, Detectives John Yucaitis and Patrick O'Hara were unanimously cleared by the jury.cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36E492D1AB140&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=2 cops cleared of brutality - no verdict on 3rd |accessdate=2008-07-14|date=1989-03-31|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Drell, Adrienne] However, the jury was at an impasse on the Burge verdict. U.S. District Judge Brian B. Duff ordered a retrial for Burge, former Police Supt. Richard Brzeczek and the city on two other outstanding charges (conspiracy and whether the city's policy toward police brutality contributed to Wilson's injuries).cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36E4A5193B969&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Jurors think a retrial useless for cop killer|accessdate=2008-07-14|date=1989-04-03|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Drell, Adrienne] cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF786A5B36C1B98&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=COP KILLER`S ATTORNEYS, JUDGE AT ODDS OVER START OF NEW TRIAL|accessdate=2008-07-14|date=1989-04-11|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Grady, William] Burge was cleared in a second nine-week trial that began on June 9, 1989. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF786A623FDC1D1&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=COP KILLER GETS RIGHTS TRIAL DELAYED|accessdate=2008-07-14|date=1989-04-12|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB36E7044354D72&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=3 cops win in killer's brutality suit|accessdate=2008-07-14|date=1989-08-09|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Drell, Adrienne]

Burge and other Chicago Police officers allegedly used methods of torture that left few marks. They were accused of slamming telephone books on top of suspect’s heads; apparently this is quite painful but does not bruise the scalp. They would use an old-style hand cranked telephone which generated electricity, and attach wires to the suspect’s genitals or face. After a few cranks, on officer would tell the suspect he was going to make a “long-distance call.” This usually resulted in a confession. Burge and his henchmen would also engage in mock executions, in putting plastic bags over heads, cigarette burnings and severe beatings. At one point he is even alleged to have supervised the electrical shocking of a 13 year old boy, Marcus Wiggins.cite web|url=http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/95/HB/09500HB0765ham001.htm|accessdate=2007-10-02|publisher=Illinois General Assembly|date=2007-03-27 |title=Amendment to House Bill 765] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42A808C341367&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=TORTURE ALLEGATIONS LEAD TO CASE REVIEW - MAN CONVICTED IN '84 BASED ON CONFESSION |accessdate=2008-08-06|date=1999-07-20|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEC65464171A9B&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=SUIT ALLEGES COP TORTURE OF YOUTH|accessdate=2008-08-06|date=1993-01-14|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author= McMahon, Colin and Christine Hawes] There were three separate electronic devices that Burge and his detectives were accused of using: a cattle prod, a hand cranked device, and a violet wand. The last device was said to be regularly placed either on or up their rectum or against their exposed genitals.cite web|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/policetorture/thirddevice/|accessdate=2007-10-04|title=The Mysterious Third Device|publisher=Chicago Reader Inc.|author=Conroy, John|date=2005-02-04] They also used stun guns and adapted hair dryers.

Discovery

The verdict that cleared Burge and his colleagues not guilty, found the city employed a policy of using excessive force on suspected killers of police officers.cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB3733207569A92&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Davis charges cop cover-up|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-01-31|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Long, Ray] Initial reports of torture appeared in the pages of the alternative weekly the "Chicago Reader" in 1990.cite web|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/torture/900126_1.html |accessdate=2007-10-09|publisher=Chicago Reader|date=1990-01-26|author=John Conroy |title=House of Screams] By 1990 there was growing momentum to an effort to seek disciplinary action against Burge. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF82B55A7635D0A&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=BRUTALITY ALLEGED ON SOUTHWEST SIDE|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1990-05-13|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF82E203AB497FE&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=CHICAGOLAND|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1990-08-01|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune] An investigation conducted by Chicago Police Department's Office of Professional Standards concluded that Police Commander Jon Burge and his detectives engaged in "methodical" and "systematic" torture, and "The type of abuse described was not limited to the usual beating, but went into such esoteric areas as psychological techniques and planned torture."cite web|url=http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1295/is_n7_v58/ai_15533722 |title=Torture behind bars: right here in the United States of America|author=Paige Bierma |publisher= progressive.org |date=July 1994]

Danny K. Davis turned police brutality and excessive force into a Chicago Mayoral race campaign issue for the February 26, 1991 Democratic Primary. He sought an independent citizens review. In January 28, 1991, Amnesty International called for an investigation into police torture in Chicago. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB373318AFE5AC3&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Group wants police commander fired|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-01-29|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Long, Ray] After Mayor Daley showed reluctance to follow the Amnesty International directive, Davis raised an issue about a police coverup. Eventually, after pressure by citizens' organizations and anti-brutality organizations an internal investigation resumed. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB3737E0B975DC3&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Strategy hinted for hearing on police brutality charges|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-11-26|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Nicodemus, Charles]

In 1991, a second suit was brought against Burge, three colleagues and the City of Chicago for condoning brutality and torture by Gregory Banks. The allegation was related to a false 1983 confession to murder obtained by placing a plastic bag over his head, putting a gun in his mouth and other acts. There were eleven other suspects that the officers allegedly abused with brutality such as electro-shock. The suit was brought by the same attorneys who represented Andrew Wilson in the previous 1989 brutality case. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB37372C79B26D6&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=$16 million suit alleges torture by city cops|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-10-11|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Rossi, Rosalind] The suit described 23 incidents against black and Hispanic suspects between 1972–1985. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFF0740F4B6EA83&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=LAWSUIT CHARGES POLICE BRUTALITY|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-10-11|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune] A third suit was brought against Burge in 1993. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4211807EE8E92&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Cop Accused in Torture Suit - Shock Treatment Used to Get Confession, Youth Says |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1993-01-14|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Seibel, Tom] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEC65464171A9B&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=SUIT ALLEGES COP TORTURE OF YOUTH|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1993-01-14|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=McMahon, Colin and Christine Hawes] The Banks suit named sergeant Peter Dignan as one of the officers involved in the abusive handling, but Dignan was promoted later for meritorious service despite the fact that the city settled out of court with Banks. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB422184A0F5C10&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Daley Won't Block Controversial Cop's Promotion|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1995-03-19|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Nicodemus, Charles]

In November 1991, the Chicago Police Department Office of Professional Standards, an internal review division for police misconduct, acknowledged an October 25, 1991 request for action against Burge. This type of request was a common precursor to a police dismissal and gave the city's Corporation counsel 30 days to consider the report. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB3737995E73F1F&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Probers seek action against cop - Commander accused of excessive force |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-11-08|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Hausner, Les] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFF0867D6180088&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=BRUTALITY CHARGES TO BE REVIEWED - BRIGHTON PARK COMMANDER ALLEGEDLY TORTURED SUSPECTS |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-11-08|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Jackson, David] Burge was suspended pending separation for 30 days starting on November 8, 1991. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFF0872E7783EE6&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=QUESTIONS ABOUT POLICE TORTURE PERSIST|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-11-10|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Jackson, David] The Chicago Police Board set a November 25 hearing to formalize the firing of Burge and two detectives based on 30 counts of abuse and brutality against Wilson. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB3737AEF962A8B&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Police Board sets Nov. 25 dismissal hearing for 3|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-11-14|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=O'Connor, Phillip J.] The hearing related to the internal police investigation finding that Burge and Detective John Yucaitis physically abused convicted cop-killer Andrew Wilson in 1982, while Detective Patrick O`Hara did nothing to stop them.cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFF08C92DB7DE8F&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=CITY HIRES ATTORNEY IN POLICE FIRINGS|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-11-19|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune] The suspension became controversial after the 30 day period ended and the officers remained suspended without pay. They sued for reinstatement, [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB37383A75ED911&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=3 cops accused of brutality sue to challenge suspensions|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-12-21|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Rossi, Rosalind] but their reinstatements were denied. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFF0A260D0CE4FD&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=3 SUSPENDED OFFICERS LOSE BID IN COURT TO WIN REINSTATEMENT|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-12-27|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune] During the hearing an internal report that had been supressed for years revealed police review findings that criminal suspects were subjected to systematic brutality at the Area 2 detective headquarters for 12 years and that supervisory commanders had knowledge of the abuses. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB37397B46358E7&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Report cites 12 years of S. Side cop brutality|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1992-02-08|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Nicodemus, Charles] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEDD0925A429A8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=POLICE STUDY TURNS UP HEAT ON BRUTALITY|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1992-02-09|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Jackson, David] During the trial, several alleged victims testified against Burge. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEDD218FCF63B8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=BURGE-CASE PANEL HEARS OF TORTURE|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1992-02-11|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Stein, Sharman] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEDD7D98F7E35C&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=SECOND CONVICT TELLS OF TORTURE BY BURGE|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1992-02-20|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Stein, Sharman] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEDD9211831606&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=3RD WITNESS CALLS BURGE A TORTURER|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1992-02-21|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Stein, Sharman] The internal hearing concluded in March 1992, [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEDEA857C39804&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=BURGE CASE RULING SEEN FAR AWAY|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1992-03-20|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune] and Chicago Police Board found Cmdr. Jon Burge guilty of "physically abusing" an accused cop killer 11 years ago and ordered his firing from the police force on February 10, 1993.cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4211F55642C87&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Burge Fired in Torture Case - Guilty of Abusing '82 Murder Suspect |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1993-02-11|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Nicodemus, Charles] Detectives John Yucaitis and Patrick O'Hara, were given 15-month suspensions without pay and reinstated, which amounted to a penalty equal to time served. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEC725114B6877&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=POLICE BOARD FIRES BURGE FOR BRUTALITY|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1993-02-11|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Stein, Sharman] Upon reinstatement the two detectives were initially demoted, [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4211F9A5E8089&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Cops in Brutality Case Lose Detective Rank|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1993-02-12|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Nicodemus, Charles] but almost a year later they were reinstated at full-rank with backpay for time served while demoted. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4259237C203FB&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=DEMOTED DETECTIVES WIN REINSTATEMENT|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1994-01-28|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune] Burge attempted to have the ruling overturned, [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB421269EED3826&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Burge Sues to Overturn His Firing|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1993-03-13|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Ortiz, Lou] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFEC805A84646FE&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=BURGE ASKS TO REGAIN POLICE JOB AND PAY|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1993-03-13|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune] but the suspension and subsequent firing was upheld. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4259A9B3B1337&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=COP FIRING IN TORTURE CASE UPHELD|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1994-02-11|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Fegelman, Andrew] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4218B3B916F02&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Court Backs Cop's Firing for Torture|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1994-02-11|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Lehmann, Daniel J.] The internal hearing resulted in a situation where the city was employing lawyers to defend Burge in an appeal by Wilson and a new case by Banks while employing lawyers to prosecute him on departmental charges. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_vehttp://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Jon_Burge&action=edit&section=5r=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB3737B918BC977&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Special prosecutor urged in police torture hearing|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-11-17|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Nicodemus, Charles] The city had to hire outside counsel to prosecute the detectives at the internal hearing. After having spent $750,000 to defend Burge in the Wilson hearing, the city was in a dilemma about whether to follow normal practices and pay for the defense of its police officers. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB3737E8AF66507&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=City mum on if it'll pay to defend cop in suit|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1991-11-29|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Nicodemus, Charles]

In 1993, Wilson was granted a new hearing by the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB421597A4CA19D&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Cop-Killer Gets OK To Seek Damages|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1993-10-05|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Lehmann, Daniel J.] The ruling was based on the fact that the exoneration of the officers resulted from a trial strategy to "immerse the jury in the sordid details of Wilson's crimes" rather than focus on a suspect's "right to be free from torture and the correlative right to present his claim of torture to a jury that has not been whipped into a frenzy of hatred". [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FFECDDD9FAE213D&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=COP KILLER'S TORTURE SUIT REVIVED|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1993-10-05|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Crawford, Jan]

Abuse-related decisions

In 1998, Bianca Jagger, Anthony Amsterdam, George N. Leighton, Abner Mikva, R. Eugene Pincham and representatives from the MacArthur Justice Center at the University of Chicago Law School, and by the London-based International Center for Criminal Law and Human Rights called for a stay of execution for Aaron Patterson who was allegedly tortured into a confession. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB429E2872DAAB0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=CONVICTED KILLER WINS SUPPORT IN BATTLE TO OVERTURN DEATH SENTENCE - HEARING SOUGHT ON ALLEGATIONS OF POLICE BRUTALITY |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1998-12-17|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB423D67898DBE4&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Petitioners want inmate spared - Death penalty foes say cop tortured Patterson |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1998-12-11|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Drell, Adrienne]

In 1999, lawyers for several death row inmates began to call for a special review of the convitions exacted by Burge and his colleagues. These inmates (Aaron Patterson; Madison Hobley; Stanley Howard; Leonard Kidd; Derrick King; Ronald Kitchen; Reginald Mahaffey; Jerry Mahaffey; Andrew Maxwell, and Leroy Orange) became known as the "Death Row 10".cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB423ECB8F2F3E5&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Lawyers urge review of 10 capital cases|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1999-02-03|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Nicodemus, Charles] In a report called the Goldston Report, the city enumerated 50 alleged victims of police brutality and abuse by Burge and other officers. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42A26BA4850C4&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=DEATH ROW CONVICTIONS TIED TO COP BRUTALITY|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1999-02-03|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve] The city struggled with the issue of coerced confessions for decades and in the 1990s it quietly reopened several controversial brutality cases. Despite the city's extensive considerations little punishment was given to anyone but Burge. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42A31221A71B0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=BRUTALITY PROBE HAUNTS CITY - COPS GO UNPUNISHED DESPITE OPS FINDINGS SUSPECTS WERE TORTURED |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1999-02-23|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve]

Several politicians including Bobby Rush requested that State's Attorney Richard A. Devine seek new trials for the Death Row 10 who were allegedly tortured by Burge. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42403986F2229&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Re-try `Death Row 10' case, Devine urged|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1999-03-19|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Nicodemus, Charles] Devine agreed to meet with representatives and supporters of the inmates, [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42A52DC9BFF0A&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=DEVINE HEARS APPEAL FOR DEATH ROW INMATE - PROSECUTORS TO REVIEW CASE BEFORE EXECUTION |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1999-04-27|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve] and he was convinced to request that the Illinois Supreme Court stay proceedings against three Death Row inmates. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42425CCDC1674&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Death Row delays sought - Devine wants 3 cases reviewed |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1999-07-28|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Lehmann, Daniel J.] However, the Supreme Court denied Devine's request. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4242D4DD669C6&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=High court rejects Devine's bid to stay three executions|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1999-08-27|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42A92693A71F5&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=JUDGE ORDERS 3 DEATH PENALTY CASES TO MOVE AHEAD - INMATES CLAIM POLICE FORCED THEM TO CONFESS |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1999-08-26|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve] Rush also sought out Janet Reno to pursue federal intervention. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:PJSB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB6F25BB2EEACCE&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=RENO MEETS ON CHICAGO POLICE>LAWMAKER, ACTIVISTS LIST THEIR COMPLAINTS WITH ATTORNEY GENERAL|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1999-07-29|publisher=Newsbank|work=Peoria Journal Star|author=Loven, Jennifer]

In February 1999, David Protess, a Northwestern University journalism professor and his students uncovered exonerating evidence on behalf of Death Row inmate Anthony Porter. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42A28F1D82EFA&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=NU PROFESSOR NOW A MEDIA SUPERSTAR|accessdate=2008-08-01|date=1999-02-07|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=McRoberts, Flynn] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42A262B02C0BF&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=EVIDENCE GROWS THAT WRONG MAN IS ON DEATH ROW|accessdate=2008-08-02|date=1999-02-02|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Zorn, Eric] The students produced four affidavits and a videotaped statement that placed the guilt on another suspect. Recantations of testimony at trial were among the affidavits obtained. One witness even claimed that he named Anthony Porter after police officers threatened, harassed and intimidated him into doing so. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42A26B9F3B99D&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=DEATH ROW INMATE'S HEARING IS PUT ON HOLD - NU STUDENTS TURN OVER EVIDENCE IN PORTER CASE|accessdate=2008-08-02|date=1999-02-03|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Holt, Douglas] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB423EC5C2897D4&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Murder case witness recants, saying police coerced him|accessdate=2008-08-02|date=1999-02-02|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Forte, Lorraine]

In 2000, Governor Ryan halted executions in Illinois after courts found 13 death row inmates had been wrongfully convicted.cite web|url=http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1216795,00.html|title=Chicago's Toughest Cop Goes Down|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2006-07-19|publisher=Time Inc.|work=Time|author=Ferkenhoff, Eric] Ryan also promised to review the cases of all Illinois death row inmates. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0F212BB7CE456598&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Hard calls face Ryan in Death Row review|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2002-03-05|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve and Ken Armstrong] With the number of cases of alleged brutality, offers were made to allegedly coerced inmates to drop charges in exchange for reduced sentences. A plea agreement was reached with one convicted victims. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0ECF199B11531813&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=CONVICTED KILLER DROPS CLAIM OF COP TORTURE TO WIN FREEDOM|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2001-01-21|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve] Devine made a broader offer to several inmates. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EECC07D82C712DA&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Devine offers Death Row deal - Inmates who drop cop torture claims may gain freedom |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2001-09-27|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve] Aaron Patterson rejected the plea. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EEE6574AD4BBE33&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Death Row deal rejected - Inmate says no to Devine's offer |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2001-10-02|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steveand Ken Armstrong] In 2003 outgoing Republican Governor George Ryan commuted the death sentences of 167 prisoners on Illinois’ death row.cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2003/LAW/01/11/illinois.death.row|accessdate=2007-10-05|publisher=CNN|author=Jeff Flock |date=2003-01-13 |title='Blanket commutation' empties Illinois death row] Ryan pardoned four death row inmates: Madison Hobley, Aaron Patterson, Leroy Orange and Stanley Howard. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0F87AB151C10800A&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Ryan to pardon 4 on Death Row - Men say they were tortured by Chicago police|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2003-01-10|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve and Maurice Possley] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0F8C14ED6D2D1FC5&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=RYAN TO PARDON 4 TIED TO COP TORTURE - Death Row inmates say they were coerced into confessing|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2003-01-10|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times] The following day, Ryan decided to grant clemency to all death row inmates by converting death sentences to sentences of life without parole in most cases and reducing some sentences. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0F88546E5AA804DC&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Decision day for 156 inmates - Ryan poised to make history after 3 years of debate on death penalty|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2003-01-12|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve and Maurice Possley] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0F8DE72809A7C24E&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Gov. Ryan empties Death Row of all 167 - Blanket clemency expected to have sweeping impact|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2003-01-12|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Pallasch, Abdon M., Annie Sweeney, and Carlos Sadovi] Ryan had lost confidence in the penal system, which led to his decision to commute the sentences. [cite web|url=http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9A02EED61E3EF933A25752C0A9659C8B63|title= ILLINOIS EXPECTED TO FREE 4 INMATES|publisher=The New York Times Company|author=Wilgoren, Jodi|accessdate=2007-11-17|date=2003-01-10] Among those pardoned were four of the ten who claimed wrongful imprisonment. In the unusual proceeding, the governor took the extraordinary step of a direct pardon release rather than a court proceeding. [cite web|url=http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9F02E1DB1631F932A25752C0A9659C8B63|title= 4 Death Row Inmates Are Pardoned|publisher=The New York Times Company|author=Wilgoren, Jodi|accessdate=2007-11-17|date=2003-01-11] Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley, at the time the Cook County State's Attorney, has been accused by the Illinois General Assembly of failing to act on information he possessed on the conduct of Burge and others. Daley has acknowledged his responsibility to be proactive in stopping the torture, but denies any knowledge which could have made him responsible. [cite web|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2006/07/22/us/22daley.html?_r=1&oref=slogin|title=Chicago Mayor Says He Shares Responsibility in Torture Cases|publisher=The New York Times Company |accessdate=2007-11-18|date=2006-07-22|author=Ruethling, Gretchen] On July 19, 2006, US Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. issued a press release calling Mayor Daley culpable, possibly even criminally culpable, for his failure to prosecute until the statute of limitations had run out.cite web|url=http://www.house.gov/list/hearing/il02_jackson/060719DaleyCulpableInCopAbuse.html|accessdate=2007-10-02|publisher=US House of Representatives |author= Office of Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr.|date=2007-07-19 |title=Daley Culpable In Cop Abuse - Must Explain Himself] Jackson called for an investigation to determine if there was any planned delay to allow the cases to expire.

Eventually, death penalty opponents requested that United States President Bill Clinton follow Ryan's lead in halting executions.cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB486430AE016FF&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=DEATH PENALTY FOES CALL FOR FEDERAL MORATORIUM|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2000-02-14|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Fingeret, Lisa] In August 2000, The Illinois Supreme Court reversed or remanded two Burge-reltated death row cases based on allegations of torture by police. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB486BFA1C09070&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=JUSTICES REJECT 6 DEATH SENTENCES - - 2 INMATES GET NEW HEARINGS ON POLICE BRUTALITY CHARGES - - HEARING ORDERED FOR DUPAGE CONVICT BIRKETT PROSECUTED|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2000-08-11|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Armstrong, Ken and Steve Mills] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4248F728746C2&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Death Row inmates win ruling|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1999-08-27|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=McKinney, Dave]

After being pardoned by Governor Ryan, Burge's victims began to file lawsuits. Madison Hobley was the first of the four pardoned inmates to file suit in May 2003. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FB5CC66DCDBA775&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Man freed from Death Row sues city, alleging torture - Hobley is first of 4 pardoned to file suit in case |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2003-05-20|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve ] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FB7BEC3CDA0818E&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=METRO BRIEFS|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2003-05-30|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times] Aaron Patterson followed in June with his own suit, [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FBF06F51E754282&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Ex-Death Row inmate files $30 million suit|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2003-06-27|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve ] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FC0060257DD03C4&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Freed Death Row inmate files - $30 million suit against Chicago |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2003-06-27|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Fuller, Janet Rausa] and Stanley Howard filed suit in November. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF330195690B3E3&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Former Death Row inmate files civil rights lawsuit|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2003-11-25|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FF0D02B58AF4B8A&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Pardoned convict files suit alleging torture, cover-up|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2003-11-25|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve ] Eventually, the city agreed to a $20 million settlement with the four pardoned inmates. [cite web|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/10/us/10brfs-TORTURESETTL_BRF.html?_r=1&oref=slogin|title=Illinois: Torture Settlement Is Approved |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2008-01-10|publisher=The New York Times Company|work=The New York Times] [cite web|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/08/us/08chicago.html?fta=y|title=Settlement for Torture of 4 Men by Police|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2007-12-08|publisher=The New York Times Company|work=The New York Times|author=Davey, Monica and Catrin Einhorn] Another result of the pardons, was a series of legislative death penalty reforms that Ryan's successor Rod Blagojevich vetoed. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FCE215BD8DD5270&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Governor OK with death penalty reform--almost - Vetoes provision to oust cops but backs rest of legislation|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2003-07-30|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=McKinney, Dave ] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FC9E6FA9E239C48&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Blagojevich puts reform on hold|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2003-07-30|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune] By 2005, the state mandated video recording of interrogations in homicide cases. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:NWRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1185A1DA831FE188&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Taped interrogations to begin today|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2005-07-18|publisher=Newsbank|work=Northwest Herald|auhtor=Wills, Christopher] Barack Obama had pushed the mandated video recording bill through the Illinois State Senate in 2003. [cite web|url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,995609-3,00.html|title=Obama's Ascent|accessdate=2008-07-19|date=2004-11-15|publisher=Time Inc.|work=Time|author=Ripley, Amanda]

Review

In 2002, the Cook County Bar Association, the Justice Coalition of Chicago and others petitioned for a review of the allegations against Burge. Edward Egan, a former Illinois Appellate Court jurist and semiretired lawyer who lived in Florida, was appointed as a Special State's Attorney (a/k/a "special prosecutor") to investigate allegations dating back to 1973. He hired an assistant, several lawyers and retired Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) officers. The only prior official investigation, which resulted in Burge's firing, had been by the Office of Professional Standards, which determined that "the preponderance of evidence is that abuse did occur and that it was systematic."cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4155/is_20020425/ai_n12459837|accessdate=2007-10-04|title=Judge orders torture probe|publisher=FindArticles|work=Chicago Sun-Times|date=2002-04-25|author=Sadovi, Carlos] Former prosecutor Robert D. Boyle was also appointed as a special prosecutor. [cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4155/is_20020425/ai_n12459836|accessdate=2007-10-04|title=Special prosecutor to probe cop torture|publisher=FindArticles|work=Chicago Sun-Times|date=2002-04-25|author=Sadovi, Carlos] Both special prosecutors are former prosecutors by profession. [cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4155/is_20020425/ai_n12463416|accessdate=2007-10-04|title=Pair praised: 'This ain't going to be no whitewash' 2 prosecutors'|publisher=FindArticles|work=Chicago Sun-Times|date=2002-04-25|author=Pallasch, Abdon M.] In 2003, former Chief of the Special Prosecution Division of the U.S. Attorney's Office Gordon B. Nash Jr. was appointed as an additional special prosecutor. [cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4155/is_20030312/ai_n12491403|accessdate=2007-10-04|title=Cop torture probe gets boost from ex-prosecutor|publisher=FindArticles|work=Chicago Sun-Times|date=2003-03-12]

A total of 60 cases were ordered to be reviewed. A special prosecutor was hired because Cook County State's Attorney, Richard Devine, had a conflict of interest stemming from his tenure at the law firm of Phelan, Pope & John, which defended Burge in two federal suits. Criminal Courts Judge Paul P. Biebel Jr. presided over the determination of the need of a review to determine the propriety of criminal charges and the appointment of the special prosecutor.

During the written phase of the investigation Burge and eight other officers plead the Fifth Amendment. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=103F2ED93542CBDE&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2004-07-13|title=Burge, 8 others take Fifth on police torture - Current and former cops questioned for upcoming lawsuit|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Korecki, Natasha] On September 1, 2004, Burge was served with a subpoena to testify before a grand jury in an ongoing criminal investigation of police torture while in town for depositions on civil lawsuits at his attorney's office. Burge plead the Fifth Amendment to virtually every question during a 4 hour civil case deposition. He only answered questions about his name, his boat's name (Vigilante) and his $30,000 annual pension.cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4155/is_20040902/ai_n12560707|accessdate=2007-10-04|title=Subpoena catches up with Burge|publisher=FindArticles|work=Chicago Sun-Times|date=2004-09-02|author=Korecki, Natasha] The city continues to be bound by court order to pay for Burge's legal fees. The service of the subpoena was quite storied with Burge eluding servers at Midway Airport and a team placed at his lawyers office before dawn. Eventually, several police officers were granted immunity in order to further the investigation into Burge. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=10E40C4843601320&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|accessdate=2008-07-16|date=2005-12-02|title=3 Burge cops get immunity in torture case|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mills, Steve and Maurice Possley]

Three years into the investigation no criminal charges had been filed although several civil suits were filed in federal court. By that time, a total of 139 victims were involved in the case as were 19 investigators. Disappointment on the progress caused the victims to request the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights allot them an hourlong hearing at their October 2005 session. [cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4155/is_20050830/ai_n15617258|accessdate=2007-10-04|title=Global agency asked to probe police torture|publisher=FindArticles|work=Chicago Sun-Times|date=2005-08-30|author=Sweeney, Annie] [cite web|url=http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9502E2D91631F933A0575BC0A9639C8B63|title= National Briefing |Midwest: Illinois: Police Torture Accusations|author=Ruethling, Gretchen|accessdate=2007-11-17|date=2005-08-30|publisher=The New York Times Company]

On May 19, 2006 an initial ruling was made to release the special report on torture accusations. [cite web|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2006/05/20/us/20chicago.html|title= Judge Rules Report on Police in Chicago Should Be Released|author=Davey, Monica|accessdate=2007-11-17|date=2006-05-20|publisher=The New York Times Company] On June 20, 2006, the Illinois Supreme Court unblocked the release of the special report by Egan that took 4 years and cost $17 million. [cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4155/is_20060621/ai_n16492174|accessdate=2007-10-04|title=Court clears way for report on cop abuse|publisher=FindArticles|work=Chicago Sun-Times|date=2006-06-21|author=Pallasch, Abdon M.] In the end 148 cases were evaluated. The investigation revealed that in three of the cases prosecutors could have proved beyond a reasonable doubt in court that torture by the police, involving five former officers (including Burge) had occurred. [cite web|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2006/07/20/us/20chicago.html|title= Inquiry Finds Police Abuse, but Says Law Bars Trials|author=Rudoren, Judi|accessdate=2007-11-17|date=2006-07-20|publisher=The New York Times Company] Half of the claims were deemed credible, but because of the statute of limitations no indictments were handed out. Mayor Daley and all law enforcement officials who had been deposed were excluded from the report. Also, the 75 credible abuse cases were overlooked with the report focusing on doubts about the actual torture of pardoned death row inmates. Among the final costs were $6.2 million for the investigation and $7 million to hire outside counsel for Burge and his cohorts.cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4155/is_20060723/ai_n16667067|accessdate=2007-10-04|title=Burge report doesn't tell whole story|publisher=FindArticles|work=Chicago Sun-Times|date=2006-07-23|author=Marin, Carol] Although the statute of limitations argument was a disappointment to many, the argument was very elaborately detailed in an 18 page section of the report. Debates in the op-ed pages continued for days and Egan explained his report to the public with legal theories and federal jurisdiction issues. [cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4155/is_20060812/ai_n16653178|accessdate=2007-10-04|title=Professor's argument on statute of limitations gets failing grade|publisher=FindArticles|work=Chicago Sun-Times|date=2006-08-12|author=Egan, Edward J.]

In 2002, Special State's Attorney (a/k/a "special prosecutor") Edward J. Egan was appointed by Judge Paul P. Biebel, Jr., Presiding Judge of the Criminal Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County, who directed Egan to investigate (and, if appropriate, prosecute) the accusations. Egan's review, which cost $17 million, revealed improprieties that resulted in no action due to the statute of limitations. Four of Burge's death row inmate victims; Aaron Patterson, LeRoy Orange, Stanely Howard, and Madison Hobley; filed suit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against the City of Chicago, Burge, several of Burge's former subordinate police detectives, the County of Cook, and a few current and former State's Attorneys and assistant state's attorneys of Cook County (the precise list of police officers and prosecutors varied somewhat from plaintiff to plaintiff). Although each case was randomly assigned to a different district judge, the parties all consented to have the four cases consolidated for discovery management before Magistrate Judge Geraldine Soat Brown. A settlement of 19.8 million dollars was reached in December 2007 between the plaintiffs and the so-called "city defendants" consisting of the City of Chicago, Burge, the other former detectives, and former Cook County State's Attorney (now Mayor of Chicago) Richard M. Daley.cite web|url=http://blogs.chicagoreader.com/politics/2007/12/13/hurry-and-wait|date=2007-12-13|accessdate=2008-06-26|title=Hurry Up and Wait|publisher = Chicago Reader|author=Mick Dumke] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank-.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11DF7E1CB99B7B78&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&-req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|date=2008-01-04|accessdate=2008-07-14|title=Burge victims close to payday - Hurdles to settlement cleared |publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Spielman, Fran] The cases against Cook County and the other current/former prosecutors continue as of July 2008. Having never been convicted of a felony, Burge continues to receive a police pension to which he is entitled under Illinois state law.cite web|url=http://www.sptimes.com/2004/08/29/Worldandnation/Torture_allegations_d.shtml|accessdate=2007-10-03|date=2004-08-29|title=Torture allegations dog ex-police officer|publisher=St. Petersburg Times|author=LaPeter, Leonora]

Since being fired Burge has lived in Apollo Beach, Florida, a suburb of Tampa. In 1994, he bought his current wood-frame home for $154,000 and a ft to m|22|abbr=yes|wiki=yes motorboat. While a police officer Burge had owned a convert|40|ft|m|adj=on cabin cruiser named "The Vigilante" that he maintained at Burnham Harbor. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42400CD05C04C&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Cop links 10 capital cases|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2000-08-11|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Nicodemus, Charles] Upon retiring at full pension he ran a fishing business in Florida. The precise amount of his pension is not a matter of public record, but he was eligible for 50% of his approximately $60,000 salary. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42491A3382EEB&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Former cop accused of torture lies low in Fla.|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2000-08-20|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Carpenter, John]

The book "Unspeakable Acts, Ordinary People" (2001, ISBN 0520230396) by John Conroy includes four chapters on Burge's story. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4866BB5652AFF&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=A DISTURBING INQUIRY INTO TORTURE AND HUMAN NATURE|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=2000-04-16|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Goodman, Jill Laurie] The torture revelations led to actions to mandate videotaping of confessions. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4240179779BFF&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Forced confessions targeted - Panel favors mandatory police videotaping |accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1999-02-28|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Adrian, Matt] [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:ECNB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EFF03F02B2A25D2&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Legislative panel considers requiring videotaped confessions|accessdate=2008-07-15|date=1999-07-24|publisher=Newsbank|work=Courier-News] Also, the 1994 Public Broadcasting System documentary film, co-produced with Peter Kuttner, that was entitled "The End of the Nightstick", analyzed the torture charges against Burge. [cite web|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EF2E5EBB88CA585&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Family sharpens filmmakers' focus|accessdate=2008-08-01|date=2001-09-23|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Houlihan, Mary]

Notes

References

*Conroy, John, " [http://books.google.com/books?hl=en&id=NM_y3jOKzx8C&dq=Unspeakable+Acts,+Ordinary+People&printsec=frontcover&source=web&ots=1MNbt38VfX&sig=i9VsOQxltz86xiQmOT2oAbkX2B0&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=6&ct=result#PPA24,M1 Unspeakable Acts, Ordinary People: The Dynamics of Torture] ", ISBN 0520230396, University of California Press, 2001


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