Man convicted in ‘09 murder of Chicago cop

A Cook County jury has convicted a 25-year-old man in the 2009 shooting death of a Chicago police officer.

Kevin Walker was found guilty Wednesday of first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder in the killing of Alejandro “Alex” Valadez. Walker was being tried along with Christopher Harris in a double jury trial.

Valadez’s death inspired a new law, dubbed the “Valadez Law,” which mandates prison time for gang members who are convicted of illegally possessing a gun.

The 27-year-old police officer was standing on a South Side street when authorities say Harris opened fire from a car driven by Walker. One bullet pierced Valadez’s brain and another struck his leg.

The Chicago Sun-Times reports that closing arguments in Harris’ case are expected Wednesday.