In this episode, Marcus and Eliana uncover the disturbing legacy of Commander Jon Burge and his 'midnight crew' who systematically tortured suspects in Chicago's Area 2 police district from the 1970s to 1990s. From electric shock to suffocation, these brutal tactics led to countless false confessions and wrongful convictions. Discover how brave whistleblowers, community activists, and victims fought through decades of cover-ups to expose the truth, eventually leading to landmark reparations and police reforms that continue to shape Chicago today.

About the Show

After Dark: Chicago Confidential is a true crime podcast that explores the shadowy underbelly of Chicago's history, focusing on corruption, conspiracy, and criminal justice. Each episode delves into cases where the line between law enforcement and lawbreakers blurred, examining police corruption scandals that shaped the city's reputation. With its soothing yet compelling storytelling style, After Dark: Chicago Confidential delivers hard-hitting investigative content perfect for nighttime listening.

Meet Your Hosts

Marcus Reed

A former Chicago Tribune investigative journalist with 15 years of experience covering the city's crime beat. Marcus grew up in Chicago's South Side and brings historical context and journalistic rigor to the show, along with personal connections to many neighborhoods affected by police corruption.

Eliana Cortez

A former public defender turned criminal justice reform advocate with firsthand experience in Chicago's legal system. Eliana brings both legal expertise and compassion to the stories they cover. Her family immigrated from Mexico to Chicago when she was young, giving her a unique perspective on community-police relations.