Former Cook County Prosecutors Acquitted of Misconduct Charges

Two former Cook County assistant state’s attorneys, Nicolas Trutenko and Andrew Horvat, were acquitted of misconduct charges in a landmark case related to the wrongful conviction of Jackie Wilson for the 1982 murders of two Chicago police officers. Judge Daniel Shanes ruled that the prosecution failed to meet their burden of proof, emphasizing that the case was both unprecedented and extraordinary. The trial highlighted systemic issues within the Cook County judiciary, particularly during Kim Foxx's administration. Wilson, who spent 36 years in prison, was exonerated after evidence emerged that his confession was coerced. The special prosecutor expressed disappointment with the verdict and hinted at potentially pursuing further legal avenues. This case reflects growing scrutiny of prosecutorial conduct in Chicago's justice system.