Statement from Romanucci & Blandin Founding Partner Antonio Romanucci on the Chicago Police Board’s unanimous vote to remove Patrick Kelly from the force - more than 11 years after Kelly shot his former best friend Michael LaPorta in the head

"After years and years of egregious and violent behavior, and police denials that Patrick Kelly was a danger to the community, it is no more than a relief that he is finally off the force. The Chicago Police Department's affirmative actions to keep Kelly on the force and never discipline him for his outrageous behavior, including domestic violence, allowed him to roam the streets of Chicago with impunity. Had the CPD implemented an early warning system, Kelly easily would have been identified as a problem officer and not have been allowed to shoot Michael LaPorta. The real focus should remain on the tragic and life-changing impact Kelly's violence had on his former best friend, Michael LaPorta, who will spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair because Kelly shot him in the head. Shame on the Chicago Police Department for not heeding the multiple warning signs and complaints before Kelly shot LaPorta, but today's decision is a small measure of justice for Michael LaPorta and a solid decision for the residents of Chicago.”