Wednesday, October 21, 2026·Focal News

The Chicago Focal

Chicago's independent voice

Local

Waukegan audits police technology use after officer is charged with five felonies

Officer Oscar Magpali was charged with five counts of official misconduct over alleged misuse of police databases and license plate reader technology. Waukegan police say a department-wide audit of technology use is underway.

Waukegan audits police technology use after officer is charged with five felonies

A Waukegan police officer has been charged with five felony counts of official misconduct following allegations that he misused department databases and license plate reader technology while on duty, the department said Oct. 20, 2026.

Officer Oscar Magpali was placed on administrative leave after the department received allegations that he improperly used police resources. The department and the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office reviewed Magpali’s use of electronic and departmental records, as well as records involving other officers.

The review included searches of the Illinois Law Enforcement Agencies Data System and the National Crime Information Center, along with alleged misuse of community license plate readers. Police have not disclosed what the technology was used for or provided further details about the conduct alleged against Magpali.

Waukegan police said they have launched a full audit of technology use, which remains ongoing. The inquiry puts scrutiny on how police access and use sensitive government systems that can reveal personal information and track vehicle movements.

“The Waukegan Police Department holds its officers to the highest standards of professionalism and accountability,” Chief Elias Agalianos said in a statement. He said the department is responsible for investigating misconduct allegations “thoroughly and impartially, regardless of who is involved.”

More from The Chicago Focal