CHICAGO — A second teen accused in the murder of a former Chicago police officer appeared in court on Saturday.
17-year-old Marquan Jones was ordered to remain detained after a judge agreed with prosecutors that he presented a risk to the community.
Chicago police say Jones, alongside 16-year-old Lazarius Watt, allegedly opened fire on 73-year-old Larry Neuman outside of his West Garfield Park home last week, leaving him fatally wounded.
Neuman, who was a retired CPD officer, a veteran and a pastor was a beloved member of the West Garfield Park community.
Both teens, who are each facing first-degree murder, murder and armed robbery charges, were charged as adults.
“He surrendered with his mother on this case.” Assistant State’s Attorney Eugene Wood said on Saturday.
Police say they arrested Jones on Thursday, just days after Watt turned himself in in connection with the deadly shooting.
On Saturday, Jones appeared in a Cook County Criminal courtroom for a hearing. During his appearance, prosecutors said Neuman was paying a man who helped him mow his lawn when he noticed two people coming towards them with ski masks on.
“Jones approached Mr. Neuman and was only feet away when he said freeze and he reached to grab Mr. Neuman,” Wood said. “Mr. Neuman backed up and reached for his gun when defendant Jones shot Mr. Neuman.”
Prosecutors said both teens had guns and ran away after they allegedly shot Neuman. They added that Neuman managed to fire a single round, but fell after being shot multiple times in the chest and leg.
Neuman later died from his injuries.
Defense attorneys denied the allegations against Jones and added that he self-surrendered and cooperated with police.
According to prosecutors, multiple witnesses who are familiar with both teens helped identify them.
In court, the judge described Jones’ actions as “violent,” saying that he is a danger to the community.
On Saturday, hundreds of people gathered at St. Michael Missionary Baptist Church on the city’s West Side to pay their respects to Nneuman.
“This is the West Side of Chicago and he was quintessential in his love for this community, his love for his people and his love for each and every one of us,” Ald. Jason Ervin (28th Ward) said during the ceremony.
Jones is set to make his next court appearance on Tuesday, July 2, while Watt is due back in court on Tuesday, July 16th.