Wife of Laquan McDonald shooter speaks out

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Tiffany Van Dyke, the wife of the police officer who shot and killed Laquan McDonald, spoke to the Chicago Tribune.

It's the first time we've heard from her since her husband, Officer Jason Van Dyke, was charged with first-degree murder. His trial will be handled by a special prosecutor, yet to be appointed, since State's Attorney Anita Alvarez recused herself from the case.

McDonald, 17, was shot 16 times on an October night in 2014. The police shooting that led to protests in Chicago, calls for reform within the Chicago Police Department, and a new police superintendent.

But Tiffany Van Dyke tells the Trib that her husband is a "kind, gentle soul."

"My hope is that people will see the human side of my husband," she said. "He's not the person as he is being portrayed."

The Chicago Tribune talked to other family members and friends as well.