(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Mayor Lori Lightfoot expressed dismay Monday that the Cook County States Attorney’s Office declined to press charges against anyone involved with a fatal, gang-related gunfight on the West Side last Friday.
Bullets were flying in Austin as people outside a home in that neighborhood exchanged gunfire with occupants. One person was killed.
Police video shows cars pull up to a house in Austin, with shots fired at the home. Gunfire is returned from the house.
Five suspects were arrested, but prosecutors would not press charges.
Chicago Police Department Chief of Detective Brendan Deenihan acknowledged Monday there are complications with the case, in part because the video doesn't show exactly who did the shooting.
He added that none of the people arrested were willing to talk with police.
Mayor Lightfoot, a former federal prosecutor, said she and some West Side aldermen have sent a letter urging State’s Attorney Kim Foxx to reconsider her office's decision. She said there seems to be enough evidence, including video from a pod camera, to bring charges against at least some of the people involved in the incident.
Foxx's office said there wasn't sufficient evidence but didn't rule out filing charges if more information in the case is forthcoming.
"The staggering violence that is devastating our communities is horrific, however, we must still adhere to both our ethical and legal standards in evaluating charges," the state's attorney's office said.
Lightfoot said she is concerned gunmen may feel they have impunity if authorities don't follow through in cases.
"We’re going to see a level of brazenness that will send this city into chaos," Lightfoot said.
Police Supt. David Brown agreed charges are warranted in last week’s shootout. A judge and jury would sort it all out, he said.
Related
