Man sentenced to 55 years for 2023 murder of Chicago police officer

Joseph Brooks pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in the killing of off-duty officer Aréanah Preston.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:42pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a police badge or other law enforcement equipment, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The tragic murder of a young, dedicated Chicago police officer highlights the city's ongoing struggle with gun violence and the sacrifices made by those who serve to protect their 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 off-duty Chicago police officer Aréanah Preston. Brooks was one of four teens charged with first-degree murder in Preston's death, which occurred during an attempted robbery near her home.

Why it matters

The murder of a young, dedicated police officer in the line of duty has deeply impacted the Chicago community and sparked renewed calls for action against violent crime. This case highlights the ongoing challenges the city faces in addressing gun violence and protecting its law enforcement.

The details

According to prosecutors, Brooks and three other teens were involved in a violent robbery spree that led to the fatal shooting of Preston, who was off-duty but still in her police uniform. Brooks told detectives he shot Preston when he saw her reaching for her gun.

  • In May 2023, less than a week after the shooting, Brooks and three other teens were charged with first-degree murder.
  • On April 2, 2026, Brooks was sentenced to 55 years in prison after pleading guilty to one count of felony first-degree murder.

The players

Joseph Brooks

A 22-year-old man who pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in the 2023 killing of Chicago police officer Aréanah Preston.

Aréanah Preston

A 24-year-old Chicago police officer who was fatally shot in an attempted robbery near her home while off-duty but still in uniform. She had worked for the department for three years and was preparing to graduate with a master's degree.

Trevell Breeland

One of the three other teens charged with first-degree murder in Preston's death, whose case is still pending.

Jakwon Buchanan

One of the three other teens charged with first-degree murder in Preston's death, whose case is still pending.

Jaylan Frazier

One of the three other teens charged with first-degree murder in Preston's death, whose case is still pending.

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What’s next

The cases against the three other teens charged in Preston's murder are still pending.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the ongoing challenges Chicago faces in addressing gun violence and protecting its law enforcement officers. It serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve to keep their communities safe.