A number of commentators are complaining about Garry McCarthy's goatee, making all sorts of noise about how if he can do it, we all better run out and grow goatees, just to prove some point. What point? We have no idea. But here's a few thoughts about the noise being generated:
- McCarthy is non-sworn at the moment. The uniform regulations don't apply to him. Why even make this an issue? If he dresses in a nice suit and tie, he's still the head of the Department. How about he agrees to not appear in sweats and a t-shirt like he just rolled out of bed and just represent the Office of the Superintendent like a properly dressed executive? If we're going to have corporate mercenaries running the place, they might as well dress like it.
- Let's not waste time with this "going through the Academy" nonsense. We're in a bit of a crisis here. He needs to be concentrating on fixing problems, generating solutions, moving staff, fighting crime, etc. He doesn't need to be going through the motions of Law 101, handcuffing techniques, PE, traffic stops, whatever. It's useless theater. Stop it now, please. Is someone really going to fail him at the Academy?
Besides, if we recall the ordinance properly, no one over the age of 40 is allowed to be hired to become a Chicago Police Officer. Why create a situation where an enterprising lawyer might have a shot at making some coin off of an already broke city? Just let the guy get to work and see what's in store for everyone.