The death of Laquan McDonald in 2014 was just one in a long string of police shootings in the troubled city of Chicago. However, a portion of the shooting was captured on video, which differed greatly from the accounts of the officers on the scene. Over time, it has been determined that at least seven of the officers involved lied and now the axe is ready to fall on their career with the Chicago Police Department.
Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson has recommended that the officers who falsified their statements be stripped of their police powers and fired from the department. Johnson sent out an email this morning to members of the department that stated in part:
“While I know that this type of action can come with many questions and varying opinions, please know that these decisions were not made lightly. Each of these decisions was based on a methodical and substantive review of the facts by both internal and external counsel. Each officer will have their right to due process. It is my belief that through these challenges we can take the lessons learned to become a better Department and in turn, give you additional resources to do your jobs effectively As I have said before, with every decision that I make, I always keep in mind the tremendous sacrifice, bravery, and commitment of every officer.”
McDonald’s shooting caused outrage in the violence prone city. It was later revealed by multiple ,media outlets that Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and his staff fought the release of footage that showed one officer identified as Jason Van Dyke shooting McDonald at least 16 times as he laid motionless on the ground. City officials eventually agreed to pay a $5 million settlement to McDonald’s family in the aftermath of his murder by the Chicago Police. Van Dyke, was indicted and charged with first-degree murder for his actions.
