The criticism against the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois began in January when the non-profit organization teamed up with the Chicago Police Department to monitor police stops with the help of contact cards and thorough reports on incidents between officers and civilians.

Lynch's declaration as the chief law enforcement official in the government negates comments made by FBI Director James Comey, who last month argued that officers in major cities feel "under siege" due to protests, demonstrations, and discussions that aim to hold police officers accountable.