Man Pleads Guilty to Murder of Chicago Police Officer, Gets 55 Years

Joseph Brooks sentenced for his role in the 2023 killing of Officer Aréanah Preston

Apr. 2, 2026 at 8:56pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a spent bullet casing on a dark surface, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the physical evidence of a violent crime.The chilling physical evidence of a violent crime that took the life of a young police officer, exposing the harsh realities of gun violence in urban communities.Chicago Today

A 22-year-old man named Joseph Brooks has been sentenced to 55 years in prison after pleading guilty to the 2023 murder of Chicago Police Officer Aréanah Preston. Officer Preston, who was just 24 years old, was shot and killed in a robbery attempt outside her home shortly after finishing her shift. Three other suspects, all teenagers at the time, have also been charged in the murder and are awaiting trial.

Why it matters

The tragic killing of Officer Preston, who was just starting her police career and days away from earning her master's degree, has deeply impacted the Chicago community. This case highlights the ongoing challenges of youth violence, gun crime, and the risks that law enforcement officers face in the line of duty.

The details

According to authorities, Joseph Brooks, along with three other suspects - Trevell Breeland, Jakwon Buchanan, and Jaylen Frazier - attempted to rob Officer Preston as she was arriving home from work in May 2023. At least two of the suspects opened fire on Preston, who returned fire, but she was fatally shot. The four suspects were also connected to multiple prior robberies and a car theft before killing Preston.

  • On May 6, 2023, Officer Aréanah Preston was shot and killed outside her home in the Avalon Park neighborhood of Chicago.
  • On Thursday, April 2, 2026, Joseph Brooks was sentenced to 55 years in prison after pleading guilty to first-degree murder.

The players

Joseph Brooks

A 22-year-old man who pleaded guilty to the first-degree murder of Chicago Police Officer Aréanah Preston and was sentenced to 55 years in prison.

Aréanah Preston

A 24-year-old Chicago Police Officer who was shot and killed in a robbery attempt outside her home in May 2023, just days before earning her master's degree.

Trevell Breeland

A 22-year-old suspect charged with first-degree murder, armed robbery, possession of a stolen vehicle, and burglary in connection with the killing of Officer Preston.

Jakwon Buchanan

A 21-year-old suspect charged with first-degree murder, armed robbery, possession of a stolen vehicle, and burglary in connection with the killing of Officer Preston.

Jaylen Frazier

A 19-year-old suspect charged with first-degree murder, armed robbery, possession of a stolen vehicle, and burglary in connection with the killing of Officer Preston.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to work tirelessly to address the root causes of youth violence and ensure that our communities are safe for all.”

— Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Mayor of Chicago

What’s next

The three other suspects - Trevell Breeland, Jakwon Buchanan, and Jaylen Frazier - are still awaiting trial for their alleged roles in the murder of Officer Aréanah Preston.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the ongoing challenges of gun violence and the risks that law enforcement officers face in the line of duty. It serves as a somber reminder of the need for comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of youth crime and ensure the safety of our communities.