Page 13 - July2021

Recording Secretary’s Report
Lack of downtime has a debilitating effect
The Department’s Abbott and Costello “Who’s on first?” routine is back. In reality, it never left. Again with RDOs canceled and 12-hour days. (This is not a real and sustainable plan.) The expedited arbitration from the Lodge’s class-action grievance for the City’s arbitrarily canceling RDOs for no rhyme or reason is being heard July 20. Roughly 30–45 days afterward, we will hear a response from the arbitrator regarding the City’s continued violation of our collective bargaining agreement.
As I mentioned at the general meeting in June, this position has been an honor and a humbling experi- ence, helping solve Lodge 7 members’ issues. In one of my most recent calls, I spoke with a veteran police detective. The detective had a series of incidents that were frustrating and beyond his con- trol. All these incidents and no time off to spend with his wife and children — he was at his wits’ end. The conversation, questions and
back-and-forth went on for close to an hour.
The member was tired, upset and mentally and physically worn
out by the canceled time off and 12-hour days. I know most mem- bers feel this type of way. I understood his concerns and had real dialogue with the member. I listened and shed some light on a few things for him. I had to hear him out, he is my brother in blue. I would want someone to do the same for me.
By the end of the call, he was thankful I had listened. He apolo- gized for his frustration and venting to me. I had to stop him right there. I told him, you have no reason to apologize. I said, I would rather have you yell at me than make a mistake on the street. A mis- take on the street can have dire consequences. Lack of sleep and
downtime is detrimental to every cop working, especially here in Chicago.
I also told the member that when he got the opportunity he should get away from the city and spend time with his family so he could have some much-needed and deserved rest and relaxation. We must be there for one another. So when you see your brother or sister struggling, be there. Don’t ask, “Are you good?” Ask, “What is going on? You’re in a different zone.” An open-ended question al- lows that person to vent and know you care about the conversation.
You would be surprised by how little time is needed to help your fellow officer in blue. If you have issues and concerns, your Lodge is here for you. Give us a call or send an email.
Quick stats
New CPD hires the last three years: approximately 750
CPD retirees the last three years: approximately 1,400
City Council’s latest budget approval cut 600-plus police jobs. Leave of absence/resignation: The Lodge estimates 200 officers
over the last 12 months.
Usual CPD strength: 13,500. Actual in 2021: 12,000 (members of
every rank)
Department members on medical and IOD: approximately 1,000
at a time
Between attrition and the lack of recruitment, the City has failed
to adequately replenish the ranks, leaving officers to work extended hours and have no time off. This leaves the City less safe. A tired officer is an ineffective officer. But as long as “Who’s on first, What’s on second, and I don’t know is on third,” “I don’t give a darn” is the City’s and Department’s response to shortstop and everything else.
Email Rob at rnoceda@chicagofop.org.
ROB NOCEDA
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