CHICAGO — Charges have been officially dropped against former Chicago Police Deputy Chief Roberto Nieves after he agreed to pay restitution in a tire-slashing incident that unfolded during last year’s Puerto Rican Fest in Humboldt Park.
The incident, which sparked public concern and internal review, began last June when Nieves and a patrol officer were recorded on police body-worn cameras allegedly using a knife to deflate the tires of two vehicles near the 2600 block of West North Avenue. The act reportedly occurred late on June 7, 2024, while both officers were on duty during the annual summer festival.
According to court records, prosecutors initially filed misdemeanor criminal damage to property charges against both officers involved. However, charges against the patrol officer were quietly dropped just days later, and the case was expunged. Nieves, on the other hand, remained under prosecution for nearly a year before reaching a resolution this week.
Restitution Paid, Case Closed
On Tuesday, Lake County Associate Judge Ari P. Fisz signed an order dismissing the case after Nieves agreed to pay restitution to the vehicle owner. The State’s Attorney’s Office acknowledged that the matter had been settled through this agreement, and no further legal action would be pursued.
“The case is being dismissed by the state,” the judge wrote, citing the restitution agreement reached between the parties.
Demotion and Current Assignment
Following the incident, Nieves was demoted from Deputy Chief to Captain — a rare and public disciplinary action for a senior officer. According to the Chicago Police Department, he continues to serve within the department and is currently assigned to the Alternate Response Section, a unit that typically fields phone reports and handles non-emergency duties. This assignment often serves as a temporary placement for officers awaiting the outcome of internal investigations or recovering from medical issues.
Despite the demotion, city payroll records show that Nieves earns an annual salary of $180,270.
Public Reaction and Accountability
The decision to dismiss the case after restitution has prompted discussion about accountability and transparency within law enforcement, especially in incidents involving high-ranking officers. CPD officials have not confirmed whether any further internal disciplinary actions are pending against Nieves.
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