Chicago Cop Pleads Guilty to Felony Theft for Falsely Blaming Ex-Girlfriend for Dozens of Traffic Tickets

Chicago Cop Who Falsely Blamed Ex-Girlfriend for Dozens of Traffic Tickets Pleads Guilty but Avoids Prison Former Chicago police officer Jeffrey Kriv pleaded guilty to felony theft on October 2, 2025, admitting he repeatedly lied under oath to avoid paying dozens of speeding and other traffic tickets. Kriv's audacious alibi, which blamed an ex-girlfriend for stealing his car and racking up the tickets, was bogus each time. According to court documents, Kriv used this tactic over more than a decade, submitting false testimony in at least 92 cases in which he was a key witness. Prosecutors have since dropped these cases due to credibility issues. "This is a clear example of police misconduct and a betrayal of the public's trust," said Cook County State's Attorney Kim Foxx. Kriv's scheme came to light after an investigation by the Chicago Police Department's Internal Affairs Division. The probe found that Kriv had submitted false testimony in multiple cases, including traffic stops and arrests. "We take allegations of police misconduct very seriously and will continue to investigate and prosecute any officer who breaks the law," said Superintendent David O'Neal. The case highlights concerns about police accountability and the need for robust internal controls within law enforcement agencies. "This is a wake-up call for all of us in law enforcement," said Chicago Police Commissioner Eddie Johnson. "We must do better to ensure that our officers are held accountable for their actions." Kriv's guilty plea comes after years of controversy surrounding his behavior as a police officer. In 2019, he was suspended without pay after an internal investigation found that he had falsified evidence in multiple cases. The case has significant implications for the Chicago Police Department and the broader law enforcement community. "This case demonstrates the importance of transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies," said Mayor Lori Lightfoot. "We will continue to work with our partners to ensure that our officers are held to the highest standards." As part of his plea agreement, Kriv agreed to pay restitution to the victims of his scheme and to cooperate fully with the investigation. He faces up to three years in prison but is expected to receive a sentence of probation. The case will continue to be monitored by the Chicago Tribune and other media outlets as it unfolds. *Reporting by Propublica.*