Justice Department reportedly plans to launch investigation into Chicago Police Department

CHICAGO -- The Justice Department reportedly plans to launch an investigation into the practices of the Chicago Police Department amid ongoing controversy surrounding the fatal shooting of a teen by an officer.

According to the Washington Post, the Justice Department will conduct an investigation similar to the ones it launched in similar cases in Baltimore and Ferguson.

The move comes after Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy was fired by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

The Washington Post notes the investigation will be a “civil probe” into the police department.

Controversy has swirled around the Chicago Police Department since a video was released showing a police officer, Jason Van Dyke, fatally shooting Laquan McDonald back in October of 2014.

Protests have been held in Chicago nearly every day since the video’s release, with many demonstrators asking for the resignation of McCarthy, who was let go, and the mayor.

Van Dyke was charged with first degree murder and released on bond.

Emanuel has defended the city’s handling of the case, dismissing any claims that Chicago was guilty of a “cover-up” regarding the video.