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A regional journalism collaboration focused on expanding access to trusted, timely and relevant information across three key statewide topics: Education, Political Impact and Health/Environment

A police line erected in Chicago.
Sarah / Flickr

Shots In The Back, Children Tasered: DOJ Details Excessive Force By Chicago Police

Fleeing, unarmed people shot in the back. Mentally ill men and women, not suspected of any crime, stunned by a Taser while they lay on the ground. People already detained or incapacitated who were beaten, with police accounts falsely describing the force as necessary. A 161-page report from the Justice Department details harrowing accounts of excessive force by the Chicago Police Department and highlights systemic failures that allow the violence to continue even as members of the public attempt to protest or report the brutality.

Urbana Mayor Laurel Prussing says losing Carle hospital and clinics from tax rolls has shifted the burden onto other taxpayers.
Brian Mackey/NPR Illinois

Illinois Supreme Court Weighing Hospital Tax Status

The Illinois Supreme Court considered a case Thursday that asks whether not-for-profit hospitals have to pay property taxes. The case involves Urbana-based Carle hospital and clinics — though it could affect health systems across Illinois. At issue is the constitutionality of a state law that exempts not-for-profit hospitals from paying property tax.