Somewhat surprisingly, former Chicago police officer Jason Van Dyke was found guilty for the death LaQuan McDonald. The fact many people are shocked a cop was taken to task is a testament to the state of the justice system.
Van Dyke, who is white, was found guilty of second-degree murder in the shooting death of the Black 17-year-old in 2014.
Reports CNN:
Chicago police Officer Jason Van Dyke was found guilty Friday of second-degree murder in the 2014 fatal shooting of 17-year-old Laquan McDonald.
Van Dyke, who was also found guilty of 16 counts of aggravated battery, sat impassively in a dark suit — his shoulders slumped — as the verdicts were read in the high-profile case. At one point, he sipped water from a bottle. He was found not guilty of official misconduct.
The officer’s wife sat stoically, arms folded, as the long verdict was delivered. His father lowered his head while some members of the McDonald family held hands.
Van Dyke’s bond was revoked and sentencing was scheduled for October 31. He was led out of the courtroom in handcuffs.
Van Dyke is reportedly the first Chicago police officer to be even charged with first-degree murder since 1980. Think about that.
The convicted murderer faces a minimum of 6 years in prison when he is sentenced.
Good riddance.
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