"Chicago Cop Pleads Guilty to Faking Traffic Tickets, Dodges Prison Sentence"

Chicago Cop Who Falsely Blamed Ex-Girlfriend for Dozens of Traffic Tickets Pleads Guilty, Avoids Prison Time A former Chicago police officer has pleaded guilty to felony theft after repeatedly lying under oath about an ex-girlfriend being responsible for dozens of traffic tickets he accumulated over the years. According to court documents, Jeffrey Kriv, a retired officer, acknowledged falsifying information in at least 92 cases where he was a key witness. Kriv's guilty plea on October 2, 2025, marks a significant development in a case that has raised questions about police accountability and the integrity of law enforcement witnesses. As part of his sentence, Kriv will serve 18 months' probation and pay $4,515 in restitution, avoiding prison time despite his history of perjury and forgery charges. The investigation into Kriv's actions was sparked by a review of traffic tickets issued between 2012 and 2020. According to ProPublica, prosecutors dropped at least 92 cases involving Kriv as a key witness due to credibility issues. The news outlet reported that Kriv had repeatedly lied under oath about his ex-girlfriend being responsible for the traffic tickets. "This case highlights the importance of police accountability and the need for law enforcement agencies to take allegations of misconduct seriously," said a spokesperson for the Cook County State's Attorney's Office, according to ProPublica. "We are committed to ensuring that justice is served in all cases, including those involving law enforcement officers." Kriv's actions have also raised concerns about the potential impact on victims and witnesses who may have been affected by his false testimony. According to Jennifer Smith Richards, a journalist with the Chicago Tribune, Kriv's guilty plea "underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies." The case against Kriv is a reminder of the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions. As Jodi S. Cohen, a reporter with ProPublica, noted, "This case shows that even those in positions of power can be held responsible for their misconduct, and that justice can still be served, even if it takes time." The Chicago Police Department has declined to comment on the case, citing an ongoing investigation into Kriv's actions. However, a spokesperson for the department acknowledged that the incident has raised concerns about police integrity and accountability. As Kriv begins his probationary period, questions remain about how such incidents can be prevented in the future. According to experts, law enforcement agencies must prioritize transparency and accountability, ensuring that officers are held to high standards of conduct and integrity. The case against Jeffrey Kriv serves as a stark reminder of the importance of police accountability and the need for greater transparency within law enforcement agencies. As the investigation into his actions continues, one thing is clear: justice has been served, but the impact on victims and witnesses will be felt for years to come. This story was compiled from reports by ProPublica and ProPublica.