Chicago Police Officer Craig Lancaster has been slapped with a felony charge of aggravated battery after a video surfaced showing him shoving 14-year-old JaQuwaun Williams near his throat outside Gresham Elementary School last May. The incident, captured on security footage, has also led to Lancaster being stripped of his police powers as he awaits trial.
In the aftermath, it was revealed that Lancaster's girlfriend, a teacher at the school where the altercation occurred, provided officials with incorrect information about his identity and occupation. She referred to Lancaster as "Craig Williams" in her email correspondence, claiming he worked for a non-existent computer company, as uncovered in documents obtained by the Chicago Tribune.
The teacher's actions have raised questions about why she would protect Lancaster by misrepresenting his identity after the incident. Lancaster, a 30-year veteran of the Chicago Police, was relieved of his duties following an indictment. This development emerged almost six months after the incident, a delay that has critics questioning the pace of justice. A CPS spokesperson declined to comment, citing the ongoing investigation into the altercation.
The CBS report added to the concern, highlighting Lancaster's history with the force. Steps taken against him now raise the issue of why it took so long to act upon a man with a history of multiple use of force complaints and accusations of excessive off-duty force. Lancaster's claims that the shove was a measure taken against a perceived threat to others in the school have done little to quell the scrutiny.
Lancaster's attorney, Timothy Grace, defended his actions, suggesting the officer intervened to ensure the safety of students and staff. "He acted in a manner to protect the children and staff from a student who was a threat to all present," Grace stated in an email. Meanwhile, JaQuwaun's struggle continues as the teen reportedly suffers from trauma relating to the incident and now sees a therapist. The teen's family is now pursuing legal action against both Lancaster and the city of Chicago, seeking accountability.
