Though officials now share the jury’s opinion that Kelly shot LaPorta with his service weapon, the city contends it is not liable for LaPorta’s injuries because Kelly was off duty when it happened. The appellate judges seemed to agree, suggesting it would be unfair to hold police departments responsible for anything and everything their employees do.

“Survey after survey of police officers of all stripes have felt like people are getting their jobs … because of who they know,” Lightfoot said. “And that’s a significant problem.”