“Everything C4 intends to achieve is positive. It takes unity to build strength and achieve change.”

Laura Pliego is a board member of the Cook County Corrections Coalition (C4) and proudly represents the Northwest Suburbs. Coming from a background in law enforcement, she joined the Cook County Department of Corrections with a commitment to serve and to uphold justice from the inside.

At Cook County Jail, Laura has served across a wide range of high-pressure environments, including:

• Division 1

• Division 4

• RTU

• Cermak

This gives her a wide perspective on the day-to-day realities that correctional officers face across the jail system. Her experience allowed her to see the internal culture up close and the unequal ways officers are treated by administration and union leadership.

Laura realized early in her career, while still in the FTO program, how quickly the system can turn on an officer. Once you become a target, the people in power often look the other way. Corruption is visible from the inside, union representatives receive special treatment, promotions are based on favoritism rather than merit, and some supervisors abuse their authority simply to prove they can.

Why She Joined C4

Laura’s decision to speak out for change came after she witnessed President Jabril Gushiniere call on all officers to stand up for better pay, safer conditions, and fair treatment. She offered her silent support at first, but immediately noticed how certain union members’ demeanor toward her changed. That moment was a turning point.

She recognized that change starts with one voice, but real power comes from numbers. She believes in C4 because it is for officers, by officers, and she knows unity is the key to meaningful reform.

“Everything C4 intends to achieve is positive. It takes unity to build strength and achieve change.”

What She Brings to the Board

Laura brings fearlessness and integrity to the board. She is unafraid to call out injustice, fraud, and corruption, even when others remain silent out of fear. Her courage helps set the tone for the movement.

“I am not afraid to speak up against injustice, fraud, and corruption.”

Personal Mission

“My personal mission is to get everyone on board to increase pay, improve officer safety, and end the unsafe practice of cross-watching multiple tiers. Short staffing makes the job dangerous for everyone and operating like it’s ‘business as usual’ is not acceptable.”

Message to Officers

“Connect with others who share the same goals and intentions. Together, we can create a workplace where every officer looks forward to coming in to work at CCDOC.”