Chicago Police Department Honors Officers and Commemorates the Legacy of John Bartholomew and Krystal Rivera in Recognition Ceremony

In Chicago, an award ceremony took place on Monday just as the city’s Police Department prepares to lay to rest one of its officers, with another still hospitalized in critical condition.

Superintendent Larry Snelling expressed his admiration for the honorees, as well as for all officers in blue, acknowledging their unwavering commitment and service.

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As is tradition, the Hyatt Regency’s grand ballroom was filled with hundreds of Chicago police officers gathered to celebrate their colleagues’ commendable feats. Numerous officers were recognized for their heroic acts while on duty.

Mayor Brandon Johnson praised the officers, stating, “They go above and beyond their call to duty, responding at any time of day or night, rushing into any situation.”

The event carried a somber tone as well, with a moment of silence held for Officer John Bartholomew. He was fatally shot while escorting a suspect at Swedish Hospital nine days prior. His partner, 58-year-old Nelson Crespo, who was publicly named for the first time on Monday, remains in critical condition.

Superintendent Snelling provided an update on Crespo’s condition, saying, “He’s shown signs of improvement, but he’s not out of danger yet. He’s still fighting for his life as his injuries were substantial.”

Snelling called on the justice system that allowed suspect Alphanso Talley to remain free even after his electronic monitoring device went offline to do better.

“When we focus more on freeing the person who committed the violent act, what are we saying to the person who was victimized by that violent act? We have to start thinking more about the people who are victimized,” Snelling said.

Also honored was Officer Krystal Rivera, who was accidentally shot and killed by her partner as they were pursuing a suspect in June of 2025.

Visitation for Officer Bartholomew is set for this coming Thursday. He will be buried following a memorial service Friday at St. Andrews Greek Orthodox Church in Edgewater.