A funeral is scheduled this week for former veteran Chicago Police official and interim superintendent Dana V. Starks, who passed away last Monday at the age of 74. Starks had a distinguished career with the Chicago Police Department, beginning as a patrolman in 1977 and rising through the ranks to serve in multiple leadership roles, including sergeant, lieutenant, commander, and deputy chief. As commander of the Harrison (11th) District, he collaborated with community and faith groups to establish the city’s first Cease Fire Zone, which led to a remarkable 67% reduction in shootings within 10 months.
In 2003, Starks was promoted to first deputy superintendent, becoming second in command to Supt. Phil Cline. When Cline resigned in 2007, Starks served as interim superintendent until Mayor Richard M. Daley appointed Jody Weis to the role. After his time as interim superintendent, Starks was named chairman of the city’s Commission on Human Relations, where he served until 2011.
Visitation for Starks is scheduled for Tuesday, with the funeral service to follow on Wednesday. His legacy of dedication and leadership will be remembered throughout the city.
