A seasoned police officer has taken a bold step to challenge the systemic issues within her department, bringing attention to a troubling policy that hinders justice for victims of workplace misconduct. On October 17, 2025, Carrie Costanzo filed a class-action complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against the City of Chicago. The lawsuit highlights allegations of sexual harassment and an unlawful city policy that stalls internal investigations when complaints are also reported to external agencies.
Carrie Costanzo, who has dedicated nearly a decade to the Chicago Police Department (CPD), rose through the ranks to become a Sergeant. Her journey was marred by years of alleged sexual harassment by Lieutenant Godfrey Cronin, who reportedly made inappropriate comments and pressured her into unwanted situations. Despite the CPD’s notorious “code of silence,” Costanzo courageously filed an internal complaint against Cronin, risking retaliation. However, she discovered that her pursuit of justice was obstructed by a city policy that paused internal investigations if an employee sought external legal remedies.
Costanzo’s legal battle began in earnest when she filed for an order of protection against Cronin in October 2020 and later lodged discrimination charges with both the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR). Unbeknownst to her, these actions triggered a city policy that froze internal probes into misconduct until external cases were resolved. This delay allowed Cronin to retire with full benefits before any disciplinary action could be taken against him.
The lawsuit accuses the City of Chicago of violating First Amendment rights by retaliating against employees who report misconduct externally while also seeking redress internally. Costanzo argues that this policy effectively shields wrongdoers from accountability and perpetuates a hostile work environment. She seeks class certification for other officers similarly affected by this policy since September 19, 2023, aiming to reform these practices and secure compensation for lost wages and emotional distress.
Representing Costanzo is Stowell & Friedman Ltd., with attorneys Linda D. Friedman, Suzanne E. Bish, and George S. Robot leading the charge. The case is presided over by judges at the Northern District of Illinois under Case No.: 1:25-cv-12716.
Source: 125cv12716_Costanzo_v_City_of_Chicago_Complaint_Northern_District_Illinois.pdf
