For over a decade, Sgt. Hank Voight (Jason Beghe) has been the immovable object of Chicago. He is the man who buries the bodies, crosses the lines, and keeps the “One Chicago” universe spinning on its dark axis. But as we approach the January 7, 2026 return of Chicago P.D., a chilling new theory is emerging from the depths of the writers’ room and real-world casting leaks: Voight isn’t saving the unit anymore—he’s selling it.
This isn’t just about a “leave of absence” for Ruzek or a promotion for Burgess. This is a targeted, systematic dismantling of the Intelligence Unit, orchestrated by Voight himself as part of a desperate, final plea deal to keep himself out of a federal penitentiary.
I. THE 1995 GHOST: The Document That Could End Jason Beghe’s Career
The rumor mill has been ignited by a leaked script fragment from the 2026 premiere episode, titled “The Ledger.” It references a cold case from 1995—the infamous “Chicago Warehouse Murders”—a time when a young, hungry Hank Voight was just starting to get his hands dirty.
The “Un-Redacted” File
Sources suggest that the new Police Commissioner didn’t just come to Chicago to clean up the streets; she came with a “Kill Switch” for Voight.
The Blackmail: A hidden file in the late Chief Reid’s private safe supposedly contains audio of a 1995 Voight admitting to a “hit” on a fellow officer to protect a mob-linked informant.
The Deal: Instead of arresting Voight, the Feds have reportedly offered him a “Clean Slate” on one condition: He must dismantle the Intelligence Unit from the inside. He is being forced to fire his own “children”—Burgess, Atwater, and Ruzek—one by one, making it look like “budget cuts” or “performance issues.”
II. THE RUZWIK SACRIFICE: Why Patrick John Flueger Really Left
The announcement of Patrick John Flueger’s (Adam Ruzek) leave of absence in late 2025 felt like a blow to the heart of the show. But look closer at the timing. Ruzek is the most loyal soldier in the unit; he would never leave unless he was forced or tricked.
The “Deep Undercover” Lie
The 2026 storyline will reportedly reveal that Voight sent Ruzek on a “suicide mission” to infiltrate a cartel-linked militia in rural Illinois—an assignment Voight knew Ruzek couldn’t survive without backup.
The Betrayal: While Marina Squerciati (Kim Burgess) is seen crying in the trailer, Voight is seen meeting with a federal agent. The theory? Voight traded Ruzek’s safety to buy another six months of freedom.
The Public Outing: When Flueger was spotted “elegantly” out on the town recently, it wasn’t just a night out—it was a message. Insiders say Flueger is “furious” with the direction of the script and this outing was a way to show fans he is ready for a life outside of Voight’s shadow.
III. THE PLATT POGROM: Is Trudy Being Framed?
While the detectives are in the crosshairs, the legendary Trudy Platt (Amy Morton) is facing a forensic nightmare.
The Desk is No Longer Safe
A new investigation by Internal Affairs (IAD) is focusing on “Administrative Discrepancies” at the 21st District desk.
The Setup: Someone has been funneling “ghost money” through the precinct’s impound accounts for years. All signs point to Trudy.
The Heartbreak: Fans are speculating that Voight—the man Trudy has protected for 13 seasons—is the one who planted the evidence. By making Trudy the “fall guy,” Voight protects the secret of his 1995 crimes. If Amy Morton leaves the show in 2026, it won’t be a retirement; it will be a tragedy.
IV. THE FIREHOUSE 51 CONNECTION: Taylor Kinney and the “OFI” Trap
The rot in the 21st District is spreading to Firehouse 51. The “One Chicago” universe is more connected than ever, and Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) is caught in the crossfire.
The “Arson Investigation” as a Cover
Why is Severide constantly being pulled away for “arson training”?
The Theory: The Office of Fire Investigation (OFI) is actually a front for a secret Task Force investigating the 21st District’s corruption.
The Arrest Rumors: The “shocking arrest and sentencing” rumors surrounding Taylor Kinney’s character aren’t just tabloid talk. Leaks suggest Severide finds out about Voight’s deal and is arrested on “trumped-up charges” to keep him quiet before he can tell Stella Kidd the truth.
V. THE 49% CHAOS: A City Without a Soul
Everything leads to the Spring 2026 Crossover, titled “Anarchy in the Loop.” * The Statistic: A leaked report reveals that 49% of 911 calls are going unanswered because the police units have been benched or disbanded by the city’s “efficiency” audits.
The Climax: The crossover will see a massive riot break out at a political rally. While Firehouse 51 tries to save the civilians, the Intelligence Unit is nowhere to be found. Why? Because Voight has officially signed the papers to dissolve the unit.
VI. THE VERDICT: THE END OF THE ‘VOIGHT’ ERA
The “One Chicago” empire is not falling apart by accident. It is being dismantled by the very man who built it. Jason Beghe’s Hank Voight has gone from a “necessary evil” to a “selfish survivor.”
As we wait for January 7, 2026, the question isn’t whether the criminals will be caught. The question is: When the smoke clears, will Hank Voight be the only one left standing in an empty district?
The era of loyalty is over. The era of the “Voight Vendetta” has begun.
