Prosecutors have recently dropped charges against a former Chicago Police Department Deputy Chief, Roberto Nieves, who was accused of slashing vehicle tires while on duty at last year’s Puerto Rican Fest in Humboldt Park. The charges were dropped after a settlement agreement was reached between the involved parties.
Last September, Nieves and a patrol officer were charged with misdemeanor criminal damage after they were caught on police body-worn camera video using a knife to deflate tires on two vehicles in the 2600 block of West North Avenue. The patrol officer had the charges dropped within days, and the matter was expunged. However, prosecutors continued to pursue the case against Nieves until Tuesday when he agreed to pay restitution to the complaining witness, leading to the dismissal of the case by the state.
As a result of the allegations, Nieves, who had been with the department since 1995, was demoted from his position as Deputy Chief. He is now a captain within the CPD and is currently assigned to the Alternate Response Section. This unit is responsible for taking police reports over the phone and is typically where officers awaiting disciplinary outcomes or experiencing medical issues are assigned. Nieves earns a salary of $180,270 per year in his current role.
Despite the demotion, Nieves remains an active member of the force and continues to serve in his new capacity. The decision to drop the charges against him signifies the resolution of this legal matter, allowing Nieves to focus on his duties within the Chicago Police Department.
The case highlights the importance of accountability and the legal process within law enforcement agencies. It also underscores the significance of upholding the integrity and reputation of the Chicago Police Department. As Nieves moves forward in his career, the resolution of this case serves as a reminder of the consequences of misconduct and the importance of adhering to the standards of the law enforcement profession.
