Two men have been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of off-duty Chicago Police Officer John Rivera, authorities announced on Monday, March 25, 2019.
Menelik Jackson, 24, of South Holland, and Jovan Battle, 32, of Chicago, face charges of first-degree murder, according to ABC 7 Chicago. Jackson is accused of firing into a car in the River North neighborhood on Saturday, March 23, killing Rivera and critically wounding another man. Battle is alleged to have been a co-conspirator in the crime, according to law enforcement officials.
Both Jackson and Battle have been charged with one count of first-degree murder and three counts of attempted first-degree murder. Additionally, Jackson faces a charge of resisting/obstructing a peace officer. A Cook County judge denied bail for both men on Monday afternoon, describing the crime as one of the “most senseless and evil acts” he had ever encountered.
COURT: Judge denies bond to men charged with killing off Duty CPD Officer John Rivera and says “This is one of the most senseless and evil acts I’ve heard of…Are we tired yet? The city should be utterly tired. These were people minding their own business.” @ABC7Chicago — Michelle Gallardo (@GallardoABC7) March 25, 2019
Rivera, 23, was fatally shot in the early hours of Saturday morning in River North after spending the evening with friends. Investigators stated that the shooting was captured on multiple surveillance cameras in the area. Prior to the homicide, police believe a dispute occurred at the flagship McDonald’s store, formerly known as the “Rock ‘N’ Roll McDonald’s.” The dispute reportedly involved Jackson, another man, and a group of Hispanic men on a party bus who were allegedly making fun of Jackson and his companion.
According to police reports, Jackson left the McDonald’s, obtained a firearm, and returned to the area. He then allegedly targeted the car containing Officer Rivera, mistakenly believing the occupants were associated with the group from the party bus. Rivera and his friends had just left the Stout Barrel House and Pizzeria and were entering their vehicle when the shooting occurred.
Witnesses and surveillance footage aided police in tracking Jackson’s vehicle, leading to his arrest on Sunday morning. Superintendent Eddie Johnson addressed the media on Monday, stating, “In an act of cowardice, Mr. Jackson went to get a gun to settle this petty dispute, which resulted in him murdering the first Hispanic man that he came in contact with.” Police are considering filing hate crimes charges in addition to the murder charges.
Police also revealed that Jackson, who has a history of domestic violence arrests, confessed to the crime, as reported by ABC 7 Chicago. He had been wearing a GPS monitor until two weeks prior to the incident. Battle also has a significant criminal history, with approximately 40 arrests since 2008. Authorities are still searching for a third individual believed to be involved – Jackson’s companion from the McDonald’s incident.
During the shooting, Officer Rivera reportedly shielded his girlfriend from the gunfire; she was unharmed. The passenger in the rear seat, identified by ABC7 Eyewitness News as a member of the military reserves, sustained multiple gunshot wounds but is expected to recover. Officers used Rivera’s handcuffs when taking Jackson into custody.
Chicago Police Chief Communications Officer Anthony Guglielmi disclosed that Jackson had previously applied to become a Chicago police officer but was arrested during his background polygraph examination for committing an armed home invasion. He received probation in exchange for a guilty plea and did not proceed further in the application process.
“The most egregious part about him is that he actually once thought he had what it took to wear a Chicago police star,” Johnson stated. Johnson also shared that his son, Daniel, served alongside Officer Rivera in the 6th District. “I can tell you firsthand that those officers over there are suffering right now,” Johnson said. “They lost a friend and Chicago lost a young guardian who wanted nothing else but to dedicate his life to making the city he grew up in safer.”
Commander William Bradley, head of the 6th District, emphasized Rivera’s dedication to helping others. “My third shift watch is really struggling because he was such a good person. Not only a good police officer, but a good person,” he said.
This tragic event highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement officers, even when off-duty, and the devastating impact of gun violence on communities. The investigation is ongoing.
Domestic violence is a serious issue that often escalates to more violent crimes. It is important to seek help if you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence.
Police suicide is also a growing concern. Law enforcement officers are exposed to traumatic events on a regular basis, which can take a toll on their mental health. It is important for officers to seek help if they are struggling with their mental health.