Jamal Dean
The suspect arrested in the shooting of a Sioux City police officer has pleaded guilty to attempted murder. Twenty-two-year-old Jamal Dean entered the plea today as part of an agreement with Woodbury County prosecutors.
Dean was charged with attempted murder for shooting officer Kevin McCormick in the head during a traffic stop on April 29. Dean admitted to Woodbury County District Judge Jeffrey Neary that he shot and attempted to kill McCormick.
As part of the plea deal, four other lesser charges in the case were dropped. Charges against Dean related to a separate armed robbery and burglary case were also dropped. Sentencing is set for August 9th.
Dean could face up to 25 years in prison and separate federal charges are still possible in the case. Judge Neary told Dean that he must also pay at least $9,433 in restitution to McCormick. Officer McCormick returned to duty with the Sioux City Police department in mid May. Dean and his family declined to speak with the media following today’s hearing.
By Woody Gottburg, KSCJ, Sioux City