Chicago Police Board Votes to Fire Officer Who Tested Positive for Marijuana

OG article by Heather Cherone

December 23, 2025

The Chicago Police Board unanimously voted to fire Officer Elmer Carrillo Jr., marking the first CPD termination for a positive marijuana test since Illinois legalized recreational cannabis. Carrillo, an officer since 2018, tested positive in November 2023 during a fitness-for-duty exam after medical leave for an off-duty injury. He was under mandatory drug screening due to a 2021 DUI conviction, which resulted in a 25-day suspension. Carrillo claimed unintentional ingestion of marijuana gummies at a family party, denying knowledge or intentional use. The board deemed this explanation not credible, citing poor judgment in attending the event despite CPD’s ongoing cannabis prohibition. Referencing his prior DUI, the board concluded he lacked necessary judgment and self-control, posing risks in high-stress situations involving deadly force. This differs from a prior case where another officer received only a 90-day suspension for similar unintentional exposure without prior issues. Carrillo can challenge the decision in court. The ruling reaffirms case-by-case discipline amid broader legal disputes freezing other CPD disciplinary cases.