Howard Saffold and Harold Winston to be Honored Among First Defense Legal Aid’s “20 for 20″

Howard Saffold, a founding FDLA Board Member and 25-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department (CPD), led change from within police ranks. Now retired, he continues to serve the community he worked in as a police officer.

Saffold organized his colleagues to confront and stop police brutality and discrimination in the CPD. He was one of the founding members of the Afro-American Patrolmen’s League (AAPL) and the National Black Police Association (NBPA).

The AAPL worked to build greater trust between the police department and communities of color, work he continues today as founder and director of Positive Anti-Crime Thrust (PACT). Saffold also served as the head of the late Mayor Harold Washington’s security detail.

On being named one of FDLA’s 20 for 20:

“First Defense Legal Aid has earned a prominent place in society’s book of achievements on the subject of Justice for All. I’m certain that our supporters feel the same way that I do. I’m honored to have been of service to such a worthy group. Those of us who know about their good work do bear witness to the bravery exhibited by these dedicated souls.” -Howard Saffold

Harold Winston works tirelessly at the intersection of police accountability and legal defense for the indigent. As an Assistant Cook County Public Defender and Supervisor in the Post-Conviction Unit, Winston handles petitions for incarcerated individuals seeking new trials when evidence of procedural injustice or of actual innocence surfaces after their last appeal has been exhausted.Winston served as lead counsel in the Alton Logan case, which was featured on “60 Minutes.” Harold Winston led the team which overturned the murder conviction and life sentence and resulted in prosecutors ultimately dropping all charges.

Winston is also an Executive Member of the Chicago Coalition for Police Accountability.

On being named one of FDLA’s 20 for 20:  “First Defense Legal Aid is a wonderful organization protecting the rights of those accused of crimes and it is an honor to receive this award from FDLA.” – Harold Winston

Join FDLA May 15th, 2015, 5:30-8pm at Mayer Brown LLP for “Answering the Call: A Special Event Celebrating 20 Years of 1(800)LAW-REP4″ to celebrate with Harold Winston and other 20 for 20 Honorees! Today is also his 70th birthday!
Please follow the event blog for details, updates and future “20 for 20″ releases HERE .