On Monday, two more of the suspects go on trial. Kevin Walker and Christopher Harris both face murder charges. Opening arguments began in their case around 11 a.m.
A third person, Shawn Gaston, is currently serving a 125-year prison sentence for his role in the crime. Valadez, 27, was shot and killed in the line of duty in Englewood while responding to a call of shots fired in 2009. He reportedly was questioning people when more gunfire erupted.
All three suspects are accused of firing shots at at other alleged gang members, but bullets hit the officer in the head and leg.
Valadez's death helped pass tougher laws against gang members caught with loaded weapons. The law mandates a prison sentence if a gang member is caught with an illegal gun. Cook Co. State's Attorney Anita Alvarez helped pass the law and is serving as the lead prosecutor in the case. She delivered opening arguments.
On Monday morning, the Valadez family along with some officers, walked into court, close together. They didn't speak to the media.
Both defendants will technically be tried together, in the same court room. But they have two separate juries.
