CHICAGO – Emonte Morgan has been found guilty of the murder of Chicago Police Officer Ella French after a jury deliberated for just over three hours. The emotional trial concluded with French’s family hugging through tears as they learned that her killer would be behind bars. In addition to the conviction for first-degree murder in the death of Officer French, Morgan was also found guilty of attempted first-degree murder in connection to Officer Carlos Yanez and another police officer, Joshua Blas, who were also injured in the attack.
The verdict was announced Tuesday night, with every seat in the courtroom filled as the families of French, Yanez, and Blas, along with Cook County Sheriff’s deputies and Chicago police officers, were in attendance. Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx expressed gratitude for the jury’s decision, highlighting the sadness of the senseless loss of a police officer who laid her life on the line for the people of Cook County.
Chicago’s Fraternal Order of Police President, John Catanzara, commended the jury for seeing through the defense’s allegations, referring to them as almost fairytale-like. French’s former commander, Bryan Spreyne, acknowledged the difficult week for everyone involved, recognizing the pain felt throughout the Chicago Police Department and the city’s residents. Despite the guilty verdict, Morgan’s mother, Evalena Flores, maintained her faith in her son’s eventual justice.
The fatal shooting of Officer French took place in August 2021 during a traffic stop in West Englewood. Emonte Morgan was indicted on 85 counts related to the incident, including attempted first-degree murder of Yanez and Blas. French, Yanez, and Blas had stopped Morgan and his brother for expired plates when the tragic events unfolded, resulting in French’s death and Yanez’s paralysis.
The trial revealed details of the struggle between Morgan and the officers, leading to the fatal shooting. Eric Morgan, Emonte’s brother, pleaded guilty to charges related to the incident, while Jamel Danzy, the straw purchaser of the gun used in the crime, received a prison sentence. Despite the guilty verdict, Morgan’s sentencing date has not been set, with post-trial motions scheduled for April 19.
The trial also showcased emotional testimonies from Officer Yanez, who survived the shooting but was severely injured, and graphic bodycam footage that highlighted the chaos of the traffic stop. The impact of the incident on Yanez’s physical and emotional well-being was evident as he recounted the events that led to French’s death.
As Chicago continues to mourn the loss of Officer French, the city honors her memory two years after her passing with memorials and events dedicated to her heroic service. The community pays tribute to French’s legacy as a dedicated officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in protecting the city. French’s impact extends beyond Chicago, with initiatives like scholarships and memorial namings reinforcing her legacy in law enforcement.
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[Conclude the article by summarizing the key points discussed and providing a closing statement in AP News Style. Elaborate on the significance of the verdict and the impact of Officer French’s legacy on the community.]