No charges for police in Calumet City boy’s death

The Cook County state’s attorney says no criminal charges will be filed against police involved in the shooting death of a South suburban boy with Asperger’s syndrome.

WLS-TV in Chicago reported Wednesday that the state’s attorney reviewed the Calumet City officers’ conduct and found criminal charges weren’t warranted. Stephon Watts’ mother called police to her Calumet City home Feb. 1 after the teen became upset and didn’t want to go to school. Officers found the boy holding a kitchen knife. Police said the teen cut one of the officers and they responded, shooting the boy twice. Stephon’s family said they were shocked police shot the boy.

A person with Asperger often has normal or high intelligence but struggles with social skills.

The officers were placed on administrative leave.