A Chicago man convicted of killing police officer Ella French and wounding her partner, Officer Carlos Yanez Jr., during an August 2021 traffic stop was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday.
Court Verdict and Sentencing
Emonte Morgan, 24, was sentenced to a mandatory life sentence by Cook County Circuit Judge Ursula Walowski after being found guilty of first-degree murder, attempted murder of a peace officer, and possession of a firearm as a felon. In addition to life imprisonment, Morgan received a 57-year sentence for his other charges.
During the trial, Morgan was found guilty of fatally shooting Officer French, 29, and wounding Officer Yanez, as well as firing at Officer Joshua Blas, who was present during the traffic stop.
Defense’s Plea for Redemption
Morgan’s attorney, assistant public defender Kristine Neal, asked the court to consider that Morgan could still be rehabilitated. Morgan himself argued that the traffic stop leading to the shooting was unlawful and that Officer French’s death was an accident.
Morgan’s Brother and the Firearms Supplier
Morgan’s brother, Eric Morgan, who was driving the vehicle during the traffic stop, had previously pleaded guilty in October 2023 to charges of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, battery, and obstruction of justice. He was sentenced to seven years in prison.
Jamel Danzy, who purchased the gun used in the shooting, was sentenced in December 2022 to 2 1/2 years in prison for making an illegal straw purchase of the weapon. Danzy had admitted to buying the gun on behalf of Eric Morgan, which was later used by Emonte Morgan in the fatal encounter.
Background of the Case
The tragic incident took place during a routine traffic stop in Chicago’s West Englewood neighborhood in August 2021. The confrontation resulted in Officer Ella French’s death, sparking widespread sorrow and anger throughout the city and beyond. French’s passing marked the first fatal shooting of a Chicago police officer in the line of duty since 2018.
The case brought national attention to issues surrounding gun violence, police-community relations, and the legal consequences of straw gun purchases.
