Inside CPD

Introduction

The Chicago Police Department (CPD) is one of the largest and most complex municipal law enforcement agencies in the United States. With a mission to serve and protect the citizens of Chicago, the department operates through a well-organized structure designed to ensure efficient law enforcement across the city. At the top of the hierarchy is the Superintendent of Police, who oversees the department’s overall strategy and operations. Under the Superintendent are several bureaus, each responsible for specific aspects of policing, including patrol, investigations, counterterrorism, and administrative support.

These bureaus are further divided into divisions and units, each specializing in key functions such as homicide investigations, narcotics, gang enforcement, community policing, and internal affairs. The city is also divided geographically into police districts and beats, with each district managed by a district commander responsible for addressing local crime and public safety concerns. This structure allows the CPD to deliver targeted law enforcement services while maintaining strong ties to the communities it serves. Through this organized approach, the department aims to uphold public safety, foster trust, and effectively respond to the dynamic needs of the city.