In a bizarre and troubling incident at Cook County Jail, an 18-year-old inmate who was set to be released this week now faces fresh charges after being caught with a loaded firearm inside the jail.
The Incident
Kemari Johnson, initially arrested on November 11 for allegedly slamming a Chicago police officer to the floor during a domestic altercation, was scheduled for release on Wednesday. However, his freedom was derailed when he voluntarily revealed he was carrying a loaded weapon.
At approximately 2:50 a.m. Wednesday, a probation officer was preparing to fit Johnson with an ankle monitor to enforce a nighttime curfew. That’s when Johnson surprised everyone with an unexpected question:
“Can I surrender something?”
Before the officer could respond, Johnson pulled out an ammunition magazine from his pants pocket and placed it on the table. He then retrieved a black and silver Taurus 140 handgun with seven live bullets from the crotch area of his pants and placed it alongside the magazine.
The probation officer secured the firearm and alerted supervisors. Jail staff subsequently conducted a search of Johnson, and he was taken into custody for further investigation.
Previous Arrest and Release Plans
Johnson was initially detained after the domestic altercation and held on electronic monitoring. Despite a judge’s order for his release, he remained in jail for a week due to an apparent lack of housing options while wearing the ankle monitor.
On Tuesday, Judge Lindsay Huge removed the electronic monitoring requirement, clearing the way for Johnson’s release under a curfew arrangement.
New Charges and Detention
Instead of heading home, Johnson now faces a felony charge of possessing a firearm inside a penal institution, a severe offense. During a court hearing on Friday, Judge Shauna Boliker ordered Johnson to remain detained.
Ongoing Concerns
This incident raises serious questions about jail security protocols and how Johnson managed to smuggle a firearm into the facility. The case has also drawn attention to broader issues regarding the handling of inmates awaiting release.
The Cook County Sheriff’s Office has yet to release a detailed statement regarding how the weapon bypassed initial intake and searches.
Legal Implications
If convicted of possessing a firearm in a penal institution, Johnson could face significant additional prison time. Illinois law imposes strict penalties for such offenses, which are considered threats to both staff and inmates’ safety.
Key Takeaways
- Kemari Johnson, 18, faces fresh charges after revealing a loaded handgun inside Cook County Jail.
- The firearm was a Taurus 140 handgun, loaded with seven live rounds.
- Johnson’s release under curfew was revoked, and he remains detained.
- Authorities are investigating how the weapon entered the facility undetected.
