Key Takeaways:
- The Civilian Office of Police Accountability released private surveillance footage showing a Chicago cop fatally shooting a man who grabbed for her gun during a struggle.
- The video shows Leevon Smith arguing with a group of people before the off-duty officer tries to defuse the conflict.
- As she turns to head back into the apartment building, the video appears to show Smith reach for the officer’s handgun, setting off a struggle.
Last month, an off-duty Chicago police officer fatally shot a man who attempted to disarm her during a struggle. The Civilian Office of Police Accountability released a private surveillance footage that shows the officer trying to defuse the conflict between the victim, Leevon Smith, and a group of people before the incident occurred. As the officer turned to head back into the apartment building, Smith grabbed for her gun, setting off a struggle.
The video shows Smith and the officer wrestling on the ground, with the officer yelling, “I’ll kill you” before firing three shots. Smith was struck in his abdomen and left hand, and was pronounced dead two days later. The officer reported that the shooting happened after she witnessed a verbal argument and that Smith attempted to disarm her. She fired in self-defense.
The shooting has sparked controversy and speculation regarding the use of force by police officers, especially in the Black community. Some argue that the officer acted in self-defense, while others question the need for the use of deadly force. The incident is under investigation by the Civilian Office of Police Accountability.
Possible consequences of this incident could include increased tension between the Chicago Police Department and the Black community, as well as a call
Off-duty Chicago cop shouts “I'll kill you” before fatally shooting a man who grabbed for her gun pic.twitter.com/xn58rMgbin
— #1 Media Plug 😈 ✪ (@NoPlugMedia) February 17, 2023
FAQ:
Q: Was the officer charged with a crime?
A: It is unclear at this time whether the officer will face criminal charges.
Q: What is the Civilian Office of Police Accountability?
A: The Civilian Office of Police Accountability is an independent agency responsible for investigating allegations of police misconduct in Chicago.