(AP) — Illinois’ attorney general says he’s asking the state Supreme Court to order a new sentence for the white Chicago police officer who fatally shot black teenager Laquan McDonald.
Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced Monday, February 11 that he’s asked for a court order that would send Jason Van Dyke’s case back to the trial judge for a new sentence. It’s a rare move for prosecutors, who believe Van Dyke’s sentence was too lenient.
While awaiting sentencing Van Dyke was held in the Rock Island County Jail. Rock Island County Sheriff Gerry Bustos said the jail has a long-standing agreement with Cook County to hold inmates from high-profile cases. Cook County paid the Rock Island County Jail to hold Van Dyke in their custody.
The special prosecutor, Kane County State’s Attorney Joseph McMahon, had asked for a sentence of between 18 and 20 years. The defense sought probation.
