In the wake of yet another heartbreaking tragedy, Dan Proft spoke with retired Chicago Police Chief of Detectives Eugene Roy on Chicago’s Morning Answer about the shooting death of Officer John Bartholomew and the critical injury to his partner at Swedish Covenant Hospital.
The suspect, a habitual violent offender with a lengthy rap sheet dating back to 2017, had been cycling through the system for years. His crimes included armed robberies, felon-in-possession charges, carjackings, and battery on officers. Despite multiple failures to appear in court and pending serious felonies, Judge John Lyke repeatedly placed him on electronic monitoring.
Even after pleading guilty to some charges earlier this year, the offender served no additional jail time and was allowed to leave home for classes—only to allegedly commit another armed robbery before the hospital incident that ended in murder. Roy did not mince words. He described the state’s Safety Act as “politically motivated, ill-advised, and horrendous,” arguing it has repeatedly endangered the public and officers alike. “This is one where the entire citizenry has to stand up and make their voice heard,” he said. Roy called for real accountability in the judiciary, suggesting judges who repeatedly release dangerous offenders should face consequences similar to officers involved in high-profile incidents—being sidelined from the bench.
He also highlighted problems with electronic monitoring, noting how oversight was shifted under the Chief Judge’s office, shielding it from Freedom of Information requests and public scrutiny. Roy stressed the need for systemic change, including repealing the flawed law, restoring police resources, and putting more officers on the street with full access to technology and intelligence.On department morale following this latest blow, Roy acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in the men and women of the CPD. He urged residents to show everyday support: thank officers, buy them coffee, and stand with them during difficult times. “City Hall needs to wake up,” he added, pointing to staffing shortages and rising violence despite some homicide declines.
This tragedy underscores a painful pattern: lenient policies, revolving-door justice, and a failure to prioritize consequences for violent criminals. Roy’s message is clear—enough is enough. Public pressure must force reform before more lives, both civilian and law enforcement, are needlessly destroyed. Chicago deserves a justice system that protects the innocent and holds the guilty accountable, not one that repeatedly sets predators free.