Excessive force allegations prompt N. Chicago chief’s removal

Allegations of excessive force by police officers have prompted North Chicago’s mayor to place the city’s police chief on leave while the allegations are investigated.

Mayor Leon Rockingham Jr. said Tuesday that Chief Mike Newsome would remain on leave pending the outcome of an investigation by a former Illinois State Police official.

Rockingham named retired Lake Forest Police Chief Michael Hosking as interim chief.

North Chicago police have been the subject of at least 16 claims of excessive force since 2005. About 10 lawsuits have been filed against the city.

City leaders have been under pressure to reform the department since the November death of Darrin Hanna from what the Lake County coroner classified as multiple trauma suffered after police responded to a domestic disturbance call at his home.