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Throughout the years, I think it is fair to say that CNN has developed a reputation of less than accu- rate reporting, more commonly referred to as “fake news.” CNN also employs the brother of the recently disgraced New York governor. On Aug. 3, sexual ha- rassment allegations were sustained against New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, and most networks provided extensive coverage of the story. At the same time, videos of CNN anchor Chris Cuomo surfaced which, in my opinion, brought discredit to CNN.
But yet, Chris Cuomo remains gainfully employed.
On the same date (Aug. 3), while other networks provided ex- tensive coverage on the governor’s allegations, CNN journalist Marshall Cohen released a story titled, “Police Union Goes to Bat for Chicago Officer Charged in U.S. Capitol Riot.” The article mis- leads the reader to believe that we, the FOP, are using your dues to defend the member’s alleged criminal actions (which were nei-
ther on duty, nor in the performance of duty).
Additionally, the journalist mentioned me by name, provok-
ing members and citizens alike to express their anger toward me through calls, texts and email. (Yes, believe it or not, citizens from across the country contact the FOP to provide their opinions on various matters. If you are a member and you call the Lodge, don’t get offended if we ask you to confirm your identity).
In response to the inaccurate story, President Catanzara sent a
written demand to Cohen at CNN for a correction and an apolo- gy. It’s been three weeks and, no surprise, still no response from the network. (President Catanzara’s letter can be found on the Lodge’s website under “Latest News” dating back to Aug. 6.)
On duty, off duty, performance of duty
From the recent inquiries that I’ve received from our own members, there seems to be some confusion and/or misunder- standing of who can receive Lodge 7 legal representation for alle- gations of misconduct.
Some believe that merely being off duty disqualifies a member from being provided legal representation for allegations. Some also believe that merely being on-duty automatically entitles a member to legal defense coverage.
The Lodge 7 legal defense coverage can be granted for allega- tions arising from a police action, or “performance of duty.” A member can take a police action whether on duty or off duty. In some instances, the Lodge considers additional factors. For ex- ample: Was the action taken by the officer, which led to the alle- gations, something the officer was trained to do? Was the action taken by the officer, which led to the allegations, something that a law enforcement officer expected to do in their professional role as a police officer?
Some also believe that legal defense is a contractual right. Be- ing provided an attorney to defend allegations, either administra- tive or criminal, is not a contractual right.
SecondVice President’s Report
Responding to CNN
DAN GORMAN
CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ SEPTEMBER 2021 11