The Village of Robbins is once again drawing attention as its acting police chief, Carl Scott, steps down amidst an unfolding investigation—just 15 months into his tenure. CBS News Chicago reports that Mayor Darren Bryant was prompted to dismiss Scott after viewing a video of an incident that has yet to be made public. The footage is reportedly disturbing enough to lead to swift action.
Details surrounding the video remain scarce. The mayor and a spokesperson provided limited insights into the incident involving Scott and another unnamed person in Village Hall. Initially, Scott was put on unpaid administrative duties, but the Cook County Sheriff’s Office took up the investigation, leading Bryant to fire Scott before the chief chose to resign. A source who has seen the video described it as “unbelievable,” a sentiment echoed by Mayor Bryant during a town meeting. He hinted at the possibility of the footage being released, saying, “I want you to all brace for what may happen in the next couple of weeks because something may get released, maybe not. But it was important that I sit before the people because I can’t be up here and act like ain’t nothing going on. Something’s going on,” suggesting that evidence of the incident might soon come to light.
The Bharat Express-News also covered the events, noting the troubled history within the police department predating Scott’s service. Former Chief David Sheppard had previously filed a lawsuit alleging wrongful termination after releasing whistleblower complaints against Mayor Bryant related to a stolen car and a fatal crash investigation.
This recent departure adds to the ongoing strife for a police department familiar with controversy and legal entanglement. The town is now searching for a successor to lead a distressed force, while residents and observers await the details of the investigation and the potential public release of the “unbelievable” video. The mayor’s office has not provided additional comments on when or if the complete story will be disclosed to the public.