Defense Seeks Disqualification of Chicago Judges
"Dozens of men over the years have alleged that Chicago cops used torture to elicit confessions. The word "torture" still hangs over the police department -- and, if a coalition of defense lawyers has its way, over the Chicago judiciary as well. The coalition is asking that all Cook County judges be disqualified from hearing the cases that include torture allegations. A court is expected to rule on the motions on Thursday."
"The defenders argue that many criminal court judges are ex-prosecutors themselves or are colleagues of former prosecutors. Specifically, the coalition is focusing on the cases of 12 people who are currently in court appealing their criminal convictions. "
Prosecutors oppose the motion.
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