HARVEY, IL — Just days after turning herself in on a felony charge of aggravated battery to a police officer, Harvey Ald. Colby Chapman (2nd Ward) returned to the City Council floor Monday night — reigniting tensions in a city hall already marred by accusations of political targeting and dysfunction.
The charges stem from an April 28 council meeting during which Chapman was removed by officers. Although she initially faced misdemeanor charges, they were dropped by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office last week. However, a day later, that same office filed a felony charge tied to the same incident.
“This is my fourth time arrested, third time jailed,” Chapman stated during the meeting.
Chapman: Arrest is Political Retaliation
Chapman — a frequent critic of Mayor Christopher Clark — alleges the charges are part of a politically motivated campaign to silence her.
“Our city needs men who lead with integrity, love, and courage,” Chapman said. “I believe when the State’s Attorney fully reviews the facts, they’ll reach a favorable decision.”
She also noted that she had been arrested multiple times in connection with her role as alderman, but all prior charges were later dismissed.
Mayor Clark: ‘No One Is Above the Law’
Mayor Clark pushed back against claims of political retribution, emphasizing that video evidence from the April meeting showed Chapman striking a police officer during the encounter.
“This is not about silencing anyone,” Clark said. “The charges send a clear message — no one is above the law.”
Clark’s administration had previously called for Chapman to be censured and removed from her position due to disruptive conduct at meetings.
Community Divided Over Ongoing Dispute
Inside Harvey City Hall, reactions were mixed. Some residents spoke out in support of Chapman.
“I’m sick and tired of you arresting Colby Chapman,” said Harvey resident Mazurk Irvin.
Others, including fellow aldermen, accused Chapman of grandstanding and turning city governance into a spectacle.
Chapman Announces Mayoral Run, Files Lawsuit
In a bold move, Chapman used the same day she turned herself in to announce her candidacy for mayor of Harvey. She has also filed a civil lawsuit against Mayor Clark, alleging a pattern of harassment and political retaliation.
Despite the legal battle ahead, Chapman said she hopes the remainder of 2025 will bring calmer governance:
“For the next six months, I’m hopeful there will be no more arrests, and that nobody will be silenced for speaking out.”
Do You Live in Harvey?
What do you think about the ongoing tensions between city leaders? Share your thoughts at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
