That’s one small step for a (black) man, and a giant leap for mankind.

Courts have determined that premeditation can happen in a split second; they could have and should have gone for first degree murder. 

“Peace” without justice is just the silencing of meretricious dissent.

it seems cops often turn out to be giant pussies when push comes to shove; they see a black dude and they pee themselves

Under Illinois law it is mandatory for the court to impose consecutive sentences in the following circumstances:One of the offenses for which the defendant was convicted was first degree murder or a Class X or Class 1 felony and the defendant inflicted severe bodily injury;

The second degree charge is likely to be wrapped into the aggravated battery charges on sentencing, since that’s a lower class (class 1 vs. class X). It’s possible, but unlikely, that he gets consecutive sentences on the 16 aggravated battery convictions. No way in hell he’s getting probation, since the Class X is…

I read that as a warning to cops too, that they better act appropriately in case anyone does start harassing the jurors. 

You need willful premeditation for 1st degree murder. I think this is textbook 2nd degree murder. 

Judge Gaughan “promised to arrest anyone who disrespects the jury because they have carried a tremendous burden serving on this case.”

It’s been like 30 years since a cop was even CHARGED in Chicago. So, I think this is a pretty solid win. It may not be 100% justice, but it is definitely serving justice more than not.

16 counts of aggravated battery—one for every bullet

Aside from the 2nd degree murder charge he’s looking at 6-30 years for each of the aggravated battery charges, and that 85% of that time must be served.  If my math is right he’s looking at around at least 81 years.

First degree murder requires willful premeditation. This was spur of the moment reaction. The charge and verdict are good.

2nd degree is not a compromise. He’s guilty of murder. Manslaughter would have been a compromise.

I cried when I heard the verdict. This is a win, but I’m not happy.

This is a Win. I’ll be happy for that part but I’m still sad that Laquan will not be with his family.  

I love that they read each and every one of the guilty verdicts for the 16 shots.

I feel relief. I feel grateful. I feel sad.

Proud as hell of my city right now. I shouldn’t be, because this really isn’t something that should feel like a victory (murderers should go to prison), but it felt like another one was gonna get away. There was talk of businesses around the Loop being negatively affected by protests, and I’m happy that if they happen…

“As the Dallas News reports, investigators later found out the shots had come from a nearby nursing home.”