Former University of Illinois Quarterback Turned Chicago Cop Arrested for Baseball Card Theft

A Chicago police officer and former University of Illinois quarterback, Christopher Pazan, was arrested for allegedly stealing about $300 worth of baseball cards from a Meijer store in Evergreen Park. The incident occurred around 3 p.m. when a security guard spotted him on video stuffing the cards into a yard waste bag. While Pazan paid for the bag, he didn’t pay for the cards themselves.

Pazan, 41, has since been relieved of his duties as a police officer. He was part of the Central Investigations Division, which handles serious cases like arson and financial crimes. His past as a standout athlete at Brother Rice High School, where he broke records and became an All-American quarterback, contrasts sharply with his current situation. Although he played a few games at the University of Illinois, his college career didn’t achieve the same fame. Later, he transitioned to coaching and eventually joined the police department in 2015.

Financial troubles seem to have contributed to this incident. Pazan is facing a divorce and has been involved in multiple lawsuits for unpaid debts. One lawsuit filed by Fifth Third Bank was dismissed after he couldn’t be located, while another from JPMorgan Chase resulted in an agreement for him to pay back a significant amount. Reports indicate he’s refinancing his home mortgage to manage his legal expenses.

Interestingly, many police departments, including Chicago’s, often reject applicants with significant debt. This practice aims to prevent potential corruption among recruits who may be desperate for money.

Pazan is facing a misdemeanor charge of retail theft, with his first court hearing scheduled soon. This case illustrates the complexities that can lead to erratic behavior, even among individuals in responsible positions.

As public interest in the accountability of law enforcement grows, incidents like this raise questions about the mental health and financial stability of those tasked with upholding the law.

For more detailed insights into police recruitment criteria and ethical standards, you can refer to this resource from the National Police Foundation.

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