Colby Chapman, alderwoman from Harvey, Illinois, attends city council meeting after being arrested for the fourth time

In Harvey, Illinois, Alderwoman Colby Chapman faces felony charges after being arrested four times. Despite this, Chapman remains dedicated to serving her community, grateful for the support she has received.

“I am incredibly grateful to belong to a community that doesn’t allow past events to deter their commitment,” Chapman expressed.

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On Monday night, the 2nd Ward alderwoman was back at City Hall after last week’s arrest and felony charges brought against her.

The charges against Chapman stem from an incident during the Harvey City Council meeting on April 28. At the meeting, Chapman was observed pushing a police officer’s arm and resisting when he tried to escort her out for causing disruptions.

Chapman was initially charged with misdemeanor disorderly conduct, battery to a police officer and resisting arrest, charges that were dropped last Wednesday.

“I am sick and tired of you all arresting Colby Chapman,” one of her supporters said.

Chapman’s supporters were in the crowd at Monday night’s meeting.

“It’s not about winning. It’s about what’s right and what’s wrong,” one supporter said.

Chapman said her arrest came the day she announced her candidacy for mayor, calling what happened political persecution.

Harvey Mayor Christopher Clark denied any political motivation behind the charges, noting the decision was made by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office.

“The simple fact is, it’s a distraction from the fact that she hit a police officer,” Clark said. “There’s certain standards you have to have for yourself when you’re representing the public, and when you’re an officer of the court, you do not hit police officers.”

Chapman claimed she did not hit the officer. The mayor says her recent arrest was procedural.

“I just wish that the people would allow the process to play itself out instead of making prejudice decisions before we find out what the facts out,” Clark said.

“It absolutely did not feel procedural,” Chapman said. “Put their hands on me, so we have to think what are our SOP, our standard operating procedures, what boundaries will be not crossed.”