Chicago

Demonstrators March on Michigan Avenue After Van Dyke Verdict

Carrying signs reading "Justice for Laquan McDonald" and "Convict Van Dyke," the tone was celebratory, with demonstrators yelling, "This is what Chicago looks like."

According to Chicago police, several hundred protesters marched in downtown Chicago Friday afternoon in the hours after jurors found police officer Jason Van Dyke guilty of second-degree murder in the death of 17-year-old Laquan McDonald.

Carrying signs reading "Justice for Laquan McDonald" and "Convict Van Dyke," the tone was celebratory, with demonstrators yelling, "This is what Chicago looks like."

Chicago police say that there were no arrests made during the protests. 

A jury found police officer Jason Van Dyke guilty of second-degree murder and 16 counts of aggravated battery with a firearm. He was found not guilty of official misconduct.

Similar protests were held near shopping destinations in the area in 2015 after Chicago police released the video of McDonald's shooting. 

"I just hope they continue making progress forward for our black community," said Takela Foster, who marched with the group.

A jury convicted Van Dyke of second-degree murder and 16 counts of aggravated battery in the fatal shooting of McDonald. He was found not guilty of official misconduct.

The officer sat emotionless as the verdict, reached nearly 24 hours after jurors began deliberating, was read in court. His bond was revoked and he was taken into custody moments later.

Supporters of McDonald and his family errupted in cheers outside the courthouse as the verdict was read.

"I want the whole country to know that it's because of God that we got justice," one man said.

"The buck stops here in Chicago," he said.

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