Officers honored, remembered at CPD Recognition Ceremony; supt. gives update on injured officer

CHICAGO (WLS) -- An award ceremony Monday came just as the Chicago Police Department is getting ready to bury one of their own and with another still in the hospital battling for his life.

Superintendent Larry Snelling paid tribute to them, the awardees and to all those in blue for their work and dedication.

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As they do every year, hundreds of Chicago police officers packed the grand ballroom at the Hyatt Regency to recognize the work of those in uniform. Dozens were honored for their acts of valor while on the job.

"They go above, above and beyond their call to duty, responding at any time of day or night, rushing into any situation," Mayor Brandon Johnson said.

The ceremony was also filled with solemnity and sadness. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Officer John Bartholomew, who was killed while escorting a suspect inside Swedish Hospital nine days ago. His partner, named publicly for the first time Monday, 58-year-old Nelson Crespo, was critically injured.

"He's gotten better. He's had some signs of improvement. But he's not out of the water yet. He's still fighting for this life. His injuries were substantial," Snelling said.

Snelling called on the justice system that allowed suspect Alphanso Talley to remain free even after his electronic monitoring device went offline to do better.

"When we focus more on freeing the person who committed the violent act, what are we saying to the person who was victimized by that violent act? We have to start thinking more about the people who are victimized," Snelling said.

Also honored was Officer Krystal Rivera, who was accidentally shot and killed by her partner as they were pursuing a suspect in June of 2025.

Visitation for Officer Bartholomew is set for this coming Thursday. He will be buried following a memorial service Friday at St. Andrews Greek Orthodox Church in Edgewater.