CHICAGO— A day after three Chicago Police officers were acquitted in trying to cover up Laquan McDonald’s murder, Jason Van Dyke, the former officer responsible for the shooting, was dealt a sentence of 81 months. Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Chairman Kimberly A. Lightford released the following statement on the sentencing:

“The lack of accountability for officers like Jason Van Dyke and his former colleagues sends a clear message that our judicial system in no way protects the public from officers who abuse their position.

“We share in the anger of community members and activists who are tired of repeated denials of justice at the hands of our judicial system. For generations, too many officers who have sworn to protect have instead targeted, oppressed and traumatized our community. The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus is committed to continuing the work desperately needed to reform a judicial system that values our lives less than others.”