Judge OKs Cameras in Court for Jason Van Dyke Trial

Van Dyke is charged with first-degree murder in the death of Chicago teenager Laquan McDonald

A Cook County judge will let news media use cameras during routine hearings for a Chicago police officer accused of fatally shooting a black teenager 16 times.

Judge Vincent Gaughan made the ruling Wednesday in Officer Jason Van Dyke's case, the Chicago Tribune reports. Van Dyke is charged with first-degree murder in the death of Laquan McDonald. Stephen Brandt of the chief judge's office says Gaughan will decide later if he will allow cameras during Van Dyke's trial or during hearings when lawyers argue motions or witnesses testify.

Van Dyke's attorney, Daniel Herbert, didn't object to cameras at status hearings. Prosecutors didn't either.

Van Dyke has pleaded not guilty. He is due in court Jan. 29 for a status hearing, when cameras will be allowed.

Copyright The Associated Press
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