Alphanso Talley, a 27-year-old seven-time felon, pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from the fatal shooting of Chicago Police Officer John Bartholomew, 28, inside an Illinois courtroom on Wednesday.

Background of the Case

Talley is accused of gunning down Officer Bartholomew and gravely injuring Officer Nelson Crespo at Swedish Hospital on April 25. On the day of the alleged shooting, Talley was taken into custody just hours earlier in connection with a suspected armed robbery at a local Family Dollar.

Prosecutors allege that Talley pistol-whipped a female employee inside the store before stealing her wallet and keys. After his arrest, Talley allegedly told officers he had consumed narcotics and asked to be taken to the hospital. Upon receiving medical treatment, police say Talley retrieved a gun from underneath a blanket in his hospital room and shot both officers before attempting to escape custody.

Talley’s public defender, Ryan Carlsen, said after the hearing that it was discussed in court that Talley is not receiving adequate health treatment. Carlsen said Talley has documented mental health issues and bounced between foster homes during a difficult childhood.

Charges and Next Steps

Talley is charged with murder, attempted murder, aggravated unlawful restraint, armed robbery, aggravated discharge of a firearm, possession of a firearm by a felon, aggravated battery of a peace officer, aggravated battery, escape, and unlawful use of a weapon. He is set to return to court for a discovery hearing on June 25.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.