Chicago to reduce security provided to alderman

CHICAGO — Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is reducing the size of a controversial security detail that a powerful city alderman has had for years and is eliminating city-funded security for the Cook County State's Attorney and the CEO of the Chicago Housing Authority.

Emanuel has been questioned repeatedly by reporters in recent weeks, ever since media reports about Alderman Ed Burke has at least four full time police officers assigned to him at a time when the police department is understaffed. Emanuel's office has elaborated on how much Burke's detail will be reduced.

Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy says in a written statement that most of the officers will be returned to street duty and the shift will save the city $650,000.