Suspect charged in Metra cop's slaying in 2006

More than two years after the first Metra police officer slain in the line of duty was shot while in his squad car, authorities have a suspect in hand.

Cook County prosecutors Monday charged Jeremy T. Lloyd, 20, with the murder and armed robbery of Thomas Cook.

Cook was on patrol the evening of Sept. 27, 2006, near the Harvey Metra station when he was hit twice in the back of the head. Prosecutors say Lloyd, formerly of Gary, Ind., planned the murder along with accomplices.

Witnesses saw Lloyd and another person running from the squad car just after the shooting. He had Cook's semi-automatic handgun in his possession at some point, officials said, and allegedly told an acquaintance to watch the news the night of the slaying regarding a police officer being shot.

Metra spokeswoman Judy Pardonnet credited police work by the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force.

"It has been a long two-year process," she said, "We appreciate that this day has finally come.

Cook, 43, of Indiana, left behind a wife and two children.

"Our sympathy goes out to the entire Cook family," Pardonnet said.

Metra's police force of about 75 officers is responsible for protecting passengers and property, responding to accidents and investigating crimes such as trespassing.

Cook County Judge Darren Bowden denied bond for Lloyd during an appearance at the Markham courthouse. His next court date is Feb. 2.