Gut Wrenching Testimony
- Choking back sobs Tuesday, Chicago Police Officer Thomas Vargas told a jury how he shone his flashlight on his bleeding, fallen partner after a hail of bullets showered across a vacant Englewood lot.
“I could feel the rounds over my head as I tried to reach for my weapon,” Vargas said, his voice faltering as he testified against Shawn Gaston, a reputed gang member charged with Officer Alejandro “Alex” Valadez’s murder.
Vargas never got a chance to aim at his partner’s assailants as the blinding muzzle flashes whizzed past him in the 6000 block of South Hermitage. But as soon as the shooting stopped, Vargas rushed to the dying Valadez, 27."
He was lying on the ground face up with his eyes opened. . . . I continued to talk to him but he never responded,” Vargas said as Valadez’s relatives quietly sobbed in Cook County Judge Jorge Alonso’s courtroom.
A good showing of blue at the early portion of the trial while afternoon attendance was slimmer, but still good. A couple of comments say Anita Alvarez's opening statement was quite a piece of work. The trial continues today.
Labels: officer down
posted by SCC at 12:03 AM
50 Comments:
Please tell me Anita is not prosecuting this. When is the last time she handled a case? Nice way to grandstand Anita. Apparently there is no one in her office that is a competent prosecutor.
I sat down in the courtroom when the case resumed after two o' clock. Watching Alvarez left me a little disgusted. In my mind she's exploiting a tragedy for personal gain. Just my opinion.
Anita decided it was time to "sing for her supper" and try to parlay this into being blessed onto the Illinois Supreme Court?
...This is a slam dunk case or else she wouldn't have even
bothered.
A Cook County State's Attorney taking the lead on trying the murderer of a Chicago Policeman?
Only if they can get something out of it.
The cynical & avowed hater of The Chicago Way (and all who propagate it and profit from it) in us refuses to believe otherwise...
Get your ass up there and hit those high notes for Alex, Anita...
And how about the crap this POS attorney put out: Gaston’s attorney, John Paul Carroll, told jurors the police broke procedure and even fabricated evidence in their “frantic” search for the killer. He suggested the weapons may have been planted in the trunk after the car was impounded.
I hope when he goes home, his mother crawls out from under the porch and bites him on the leg.
Death penalty for cop killers. Nothing less is acceptable. Thank you.
Not a dry eye in the court room. Trial began with an awesome opening by Anita Alvarez. Officer Vargas' testimony was heart wrenching. Like Officer Valadez, Vargas is a real hero. God Bless him as he continue to do God's work.
OT....SCC Put this as a post http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-met-pensions-legislation-watchdog-20110921,0,4724416.story
I was incredibly proud to see the courtroom (standing room over and spilling outside) lined in a sea of blue shirts and even a few white shirts and a Roman collar. What a nice show of support for Alex's family. Let's keep it up.
"I hope his mother crawls out from under his porch and bites him in the leg" hahahahahahaha
John Paul Carroll would sell his soul...disgusting
Speaking of the POS attorney, how about this from his website;
John Paul Carroll received his Juris Doctor from the John Marshall Law School in Chicago while working as a detective in the Chicago Police Department.
How wonderful.
I can't believe anyone would be critical of Anita Alvarez handling this case herself. The woman has been a prosecutor for 25 years and has tried more gang and murder cases than almost any prosecutor out there. Besides that, if you were in the courtroom yesterday, you would know that she is doing a phenomenal job.
Jim Mckay always handled the tough cases
Trib states defense attorney was an ex CPD detective: Where did this "PIECE O' SHIT" work as a dick. Anything to win a case_ his accusations regarding police 'planting guns & improper procedure.
John Paul CARROL; Any relation to Ret. Sgt Carrol living in Florida??
POS
I/F
Still praying for you Tom...... Words can't describe what you have and will continue to go thru.
More disgusting about John Paul Carroll is that it said in the article that he is former CPD.
I thought Anita's opening was good. Of course she's using it for personal gain. But they way I look at it is the Jury knows who she is. Chances are a Jury will respond well to "The" State's Attorney trying to case. Of course she'd doing it for personal gain, but if she gets the piece of garbage convicted, we shouldn't complain.
And how about the crap this POS attorney put out: Gaston’s attorney, John Paul Carroll, told jurors the police broke procedure and even fabricated evidence in their “frantic” search for the killer. He suggested the weapons may have been planted in the trunk after the car was impounded.
If it's the same John Paul Carroll, he was a CPD Detective at one time. Wow, if true, he has absolutely no shame??? Defend someone that killed one of his own??? Sounds like a guy that was never really the police, and used the job for free education. I hope he rots...
If I recall correctly, the former States Attorney (Devine) would take part in a lot of Police Officers murders trials. So whether Alvarez's action are for her gain or not let's all hope a guilty come back and they hand this dredge on society the justice he deserves. God rest you soul Officer
"It breaks my heart to know that he was taken from his family and will never know his son. Nor will his son know his father, except through Brenda, Mr. and Mrs. Valadez and the rest of his other family-us."
The post above got me crying as I watched my toddler son playing across from the living room. Call me soft ,but, if you're on the job and have kids, you know where I'm coming from. We all want to go home safe and be with our family every night / day.
I work midnight shift, but , I would like to show my support and respect to our fallen Brother by going one these trials. If you have any infos about the court dates, please let us know..
Be safe everyone and God Bless..
Is Anita Alverez trying to cozzy back up to the police by trying this case herself? Maybe. She should now understand that we both need each other to clean up this county of Thugs. Before she became States Attorney she had a good reputation with the police.
was there today but stayed out in hall as court was packed. Defendant's attorney, a former dick, was in hall conversing openly about his strategy. is going to suggest police misconduct in the way the defendant's vehicle was towed from southside up to impound garage at area 5. The hint is that the police did this for the wrong reasons and my have planted the weapons recovered from the vehicle when the investigating detectives executed the search warrant upon it. We all know this is total bullshit but unfortunately jurors have fallen for more outrageous defense assertions.
Shithead's people were there too and lets just say all birds of the same feather. They looked like scum and it wasnt hard to see how a cop killer would hang out with these people. I for one am still blown away that a retired CPD dick would represent a cop killer. Dont think it would have happened 10 , 20, or 30 years ago. As an almost attorney who has been a cop for years I couldnt imagine representing that kind of animal. With all the ways to make money in law why is this asshole representing a cop killer? Shame on him. God bless the deceased officer and his family and friends. Hope the process of justice comes to the proper conclusion.
And how about the crap this POS attorney put out: Gaston’s attorney, John Paul Carroll, told jurors the police broke procedure and even fabricated evidence in their “frantic” search for the killer. He suggested the weapons may have been planted in the trunk after the car was impounded.
I hope when he goes home, his mother crawls out from under the porch and bites him on the leg.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Today's paper says defense attorney is former CPD!!!!!
WTF???
Good to see lots of CPD officers in attendance this afternoon.
Check out this jagoff lawyer's website. $30,000 for a murder defense and $50,000 for a death penalty case. So where is this pos gangbanging punk getting this kind of maoney. What is wrong with this country?
Atty John Paul Carroll used to be one of us. Oh how far from the flock he has strayed.
To those that wish to criticize Anita: shut the f*ck up. She has been on this case since the beginning. She gave an excellent opening statement and she will hopefully bring home a winner. If the verdict from several weeks ago taught us anything, its that there are no sure things in a Cook County jury trial.
Put aside your own bullshit for a few days and support the prosecution of this cop killer. Anything less and you are as bad as the former CPD detective defending this scum bag. Your choice.
His defense attorney...John paul CArrol...was a former CPD homicide dick!!!! How does he f'n sleep at night!!!!!
EXCELLENT testimony from Forensic Investigator Miller today. He made an ass out of Carroll. God Bless CPD and the Valadez family.
Great showing by CPD blue and a few high ranking brass. Attendance was so great that throughout the morning it was one person out n another can go in. shitbags family occupied 2 benches and rest were mostly CPD. Every officer was respectful and patient from what I saw. Im sure Ofc.Valadez family is truely greatful for the strong showing.
Deputy Sheriff
Officer Valdez losing his life at the age of 27 is tragic beyond words. Reading about the testimony of Officer Vargas is enough to make angels weep.
I hope this young officer finds solace when the perpetrator is put away. It's a shame that capital punishment isn't possible.
There is no way you could listen to Anita Alvarez's opening and doubt she supports the police and their mission to protect and serve. Anyone who knew her as a courtroom prosecutor knows she is the real deal. She proved it again on Tuesday.
Anonymous said...
And how about the crap this POS attorney put out: Gaston’s attorney, John Paul Carroll, told jurors the police broke procedure and even fabricated evidence in their “frantic” search for the killer. He suggested the weapons may have been planted in the trunk after the car was impounded.
I hope when he goes home, his mother crawls out from under the porch and bites him on the leg.
9/21/2011 02:48:00 AM
From his own bio:
As a former Chicago Police Homicide Detective, undercover narcotics officer assigned to the federal Drug Enforcement Administration and a criminal prosecutor in Chicago, Mr. Carroll brings a unique perspective to the courtroom. He knows through personal experience the legal limitations the police and prosecutors must obey and he can identify and exploit any violations of those legal boundaries. This experience brings a tremendous advantage to those under the cloud of a serious criminal accusation, a situation where the outcome can change your life and drastically affect your future.
From nbcchicago.com:
Missing is any mention of this nugget reported by the Daily Herald: "In the 1990s, Carroll's law license was suspended for 18 months, according to the Illinois Attorney Registration & Disciplinary Commission. An ARDC disciplinary panel found Carroll filed false income tax returns, gave inaccurate accounting to a client, and charged an excessive fee, according to an agency report."
Atty Carroll is no relation to Capt Carroll of 003.
The Capt has two brothers retired from the job, but Atty Carroll is no relation.
Anita is about anita. Yeah she supports the police when it suits her. She picks and chooses her battles. Wait til the next time she's mugging for the camera when some bullshit case that would've been dropped if it was a civilian is brought up against a po and see what a great supporter she is.
Good for the P.O. that said something to that punk today when judge broke us for lunch. That punk kept looking at us all tuff and saying smart comments towards the police and valadez family since trial began. Good for you officer and the way you put that punk is his place. Don't let them get the advantage over us. Keep on showing up and showing support. We are a family. Hurt one of us hurt us all. I am so proud to be in the greatest family in the entire world: CPD SGT TC 1st watch
His defense attorney...John paul CArrol...was a former CPD homicide dick!!!! How does he f'n sleep at night!!!!!
9/21/2011 07:05:00 PM
--
On pillows stuffed with cash, that's how.
I sat quietly as they testified.When Alex's partner testified,My god I tried to hold it back and hold it together,but it rained down my face.
I made not a sound but the tears rolled off my weathered face onto my cover.I bit my lip to stop it from quivering.I looked forward.Straight ahead. I was the 3rd car there for Alex. I remember. I will NEVER forget. Such a brilliant young man snuufed out by an Animal. The Death penalty is far too good for this "person" and I know damn well SCC wont let me post what SHOULD happen to him.
Alex,we are still here fighting for you Brother. No we didnt nor shall we EVER FORGET.
REST IN PEACE BROTHER
YOU will have justice.
One way or the other you will have justice.
This jagoff fired at two guys wearing vests and duty belts. He couldnt not notice those big chrome buckles. They can put him to sleep right now as far as I am concerned.
At today's Trial which sarted at 11am in room 606. There was a Cook County Sgt telling everyone they had to cover up and could not show their blue shirts because the judge ordered it. There were many who despite what she had to say entered the court room and sat with blue shirts showing anyway..Ans the ones who had covered up, immediately took off their covers to show their Blues. Good for you guys!! Speaking of Sgt's there was only one in the Morning.. Good for you Sarge, Shame on the other bosses who could not show their support. Kudos to the 009th district Caps guy who offered to give up his seat so an Officer could sit in his stead. The Caps guy offered to leave and come back when seats were available. We salute you caps guy! Good turn out in the A.M. session. Word is ME testifies at 1430hrs.. Please post verdict when made.
"Please tell me Anita is not prosecuting this. When is the last time she handled a case? Nice way to grandstand Anita. Apparently there is no one in her office that is a competent prosecutor.
9/21/2011 12:29:00 AM"
You're an Ass. She's a trmendous prosecutor who happens to have the top job in an office full of Tremendous prosecutors. She's put a lot of Murderers and Gangbangers away for violebnt crimes after trial. Many more than you've ever arrested, I'm sure.
GFY
"Jim Mckay always handled the tough cases"
He still does. But Ms Alvarez is an excellent prosecutor. Some of the idiots who post here have never seen the inside of a Felony courtroom. She has, and she has been extremely successful at trial. You guys crack me up. Which is it? Is she a hack politician who can't try a case, or a Grandstanding politician because she tries a case? She's an excellent Career prosecutor who got elected to be SA. Deal with it.
Check out the Huffpost Chicago for an interesting look into the mindset of the piece of shit Gaston.
At today's Trial which sarted at 11am in room 606. There was a Cook County Sgt telling everyone they had to cover up and could not show their blue shirts because the judge ordered it.
I know for a fact that the judge ordered her to tell us to cover-up. She told me that i had to wear my cover if i had one so next time dont bring it in with you, have a coat check at the door. He doesnt want a chance of a mistrial. Its not the Sheriff's, they have actually been great to me and the guys ive came with since tuesday. Thank you Sheriffs.
"Jim Mckay always handled the tough cases"
He still does. But Ms Alvarez is an excellent prosecutor. Some of the idiots who post here have never seen the inside of a Felony courtroom. She has, and she has been extremely successful at trial. You guys crack me up. Which is it? Is she a hack politician who can't try a case, or a Grandstanding politician because she tries a case? She's an excellent Career prosecutor who got elected to be SA. Deal with it.
9/22/2011 01:55:00 PM
Anita Alvarez is a political player who will cut the throat of any CPD Officer at the slightest opportunity as long as she gets the media headshots doing so-have no doubt-she's a political grandstander seeking to further her career- doesn't matter who she has by the jugular- cop, bangers- both pawns in her fame game
"Please tell me Anita is not prosecuting this. When is the last time she handled a case? Nice way to grandstand Anita. Apparently there is no one in her office that is a competent prosecutor.
9/21/2011 12:29:00 AM"
You're an Ass. She's a trmendous prosecutor who happens to have the top job in an office full of Tremendous prosecutors. She's put a lot of Murderers and Gangbangers away for violebnt crimes after trial. Many more than you've ever arrested, I'm sure.
Hahahaha. Apparently you have never been to 26th street.
"Hahahaha. Apparently you have never been to 26th street.
9/23/2011 01:35:00 AM"
Worked here since 1995.
She's a trmendous prosecutor who happens to have the top job in an office full of Tremendous prosecutors. She's put a lot of Murderers and Gangbangers away for violebnt crimes after trial. Many more than you've ever arrested, I'm sure.
GFY
9/22/2011 01:51:00 PM
your certainty does not impress me.
Chalkie
One way or the other you will have justice.
9/22/2011 03:53:00 AM
already on my list.
Chalkie
"She's put a lot of Murderers and Gangbangers away for violebnt crimes after trial. Many more than you've ever arrested, I'm sure.
GFY
9/22/2011 01:51:00 PM
Your certainty does not impress me.
Chalkie
And your cynicism does not impress me. Watch the trial and see. Too many on this blog write without ever seeing or experiencing. I've seen her at trial. She's good.
"I hope when he goes home, his mother crawls out from under the porch and bites him on the leg."
ROTFLMAO!!! This shit is funny as hell!! I'm in tears right now.
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