Harvey, Illinois Alderman Colby Chapman Returns to City Council After Fourth Arrest

HARVEY, Ill. (WLS) — Despite facing four arrests and now felony charges, Harvey Alderwoman Colby Chapman remains determined to continue her duties in serving the community and credits her supporters for their unwavering backing.

“I am incredibly grateful to be part of a community that chooses not to be burdened by the events that have transpired,” Chapman stated.

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On Monday night, the 2nd Ward alderwoman was back at City Hall after last week’s arrest and felony charges brought against her.

The legal issues arise from an incident on April 28 during a Harvey City Council meeting, where Chapman was observed pushing away an officer’s arm and resisting as he attempted to escort her out for causing a disturbance.

Chapman was initially charged with misdemeanor disorderly conduct, battery to a police officer and resisting arrest, charges that were dropped last Wednesday.

“I am sick and tired of you all arresting Colby Chapman,” one of her supporters said.

Chapman’s supporters were in the crowd at Monday night’s meeting.

“It’s not about winning. It’s about what’s right and what’s wrong,” one supporter said.

Chapman said her arrest came the day she announced her candidacy for mayor, calling what happened political persecution.

Harvey Mayor Christopher Clark denied any political motivation behind the charges, noting the decision was made by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office.

“The simple fact is, it’s a distraction from the fact that she hit a police officer,” Clark said. “There’s certain standards you have to have for yourself when you’re representing the public, and when you’re an officer of the court, you do not hit police officers.”

Chapman claimed she did not hit the officer. The mayor says her recent arrest was procedural.

“I just wish that the people would allow the process to play itself out instead of making prejudice decisions before we find out what the facts out,” Clark said.

“It absolutely did not feel procedural,” Chapman said. “Put their hands on me, so we have to think what are our SOP, our standard operating procedures, what boundaries will be not crossed.”