Trending Topics

3rd man convicted in slaying of Chicago cop

Officer Alejandro “Alex” Valadez was killed on-duty in a drive-by shooting

valadez-285x245.jpg

Officer Alejandro “Alex” Valadez.

Chicago Police Department Image

Associated Press

CHICAGO — A Cook County jury has convicted the gunman in the June 2009 shooting death of a Chicago police officer.

Christopher Harris was the third man found guilty on charges connected to the fatal drive-by shooting of Officer Alejandro “Alex” Valadez.

Earlier Wednesday, Kevin Walker was found guilty of first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder in the killing of Valadez. Walker was driver of the auto and authorities say Harris was the gunman.

The 27-year-old police officer was standing on a South Side street when authorities say Harris opened fire. Valadez was struck in the head and leg.

Shawn Gaston is serving a 125-year sentence for his role in the shooting.

Valadez’s death inspired a new law mandating prison time for gang members convicted of illegally possessing a gun.

Copyright 2013 Associated Press