Martin Preib is an American writer and retired Chicago police officer. His books include The Wagon and Other Stories from the City, Crooked City and Burn Patterns. He publishes commentary on policing and wrongful-conviction litigation.
Role at the time: Writer and retired Chicago police officer, writing a signed column
Condemned
Statement summary
Preib accuses Chicago media of ignoring parallels with Philadelphia and urges federal investigators to act in both cities.
“While the Chicago media refuses to address the blatant parallels between top prosecutors in Philly and Chicago, federal investigators should not refuse to do so. Restoring the criminal justice system, in particular holding police killers accountable, is a central theme of the Trump administration.
The feds must do their job not just in Philly, but Chicago as well.”
Open source (opens in a new tab)Finally, a Prosecutor Faces Criminal Probe in Wrongful Conviction CaseConclusion; version updated October 23
Why we used this label
The matter under scrutiny is alleged misconduct by Krasner's office. Preib supports federal investigation and describes the conduct critically.
Role at the time: Writer and retired Chicago police officer, in his signed September 18column
Condemned
Statement summary
Preib welcomes the referral concerning Krasner as a major step against what he describes as a radical prosecutorial movement. He argues that comparable scrutiny should reach Chicago, while treating the Philadelphia referral as a starting point.
“The call for the feds to criminally investigate Krasner’s administration is a crucial step in taking back the justice system from radicals”
The reference point is alleged misconduct in Krasner's office's handling of conviction appeals. Preib expressly criticizes the administration and welcomes a criminal investigation; he does not claim a criminal conviction has occurred.
A federal judge disqualified Philadelphia DA Larry Krasner and a top aide from a murder-conviction appeal, declined to disqualify the District Attorney's Office, and referred all three to federal prosecutors, writing they may have violated the law. Krasner disputes the findings and plans to appeal.
