Man accused of shooting Evansville officer apologizes; asks to return to hospital

EVANSVILLE, Ind. (WEHT) – The man accused of severely injuring Evansville Police Officer Sam Taylor apologized to anyone hurt in the shooting during his initial court appearance on Tuesday, and asked that he be returned to the hospital instead of jail.

Jailani Chew, 18, appeared in court with bandages covering both of his arms. He said he was unable to feed himself, and no one else has helped him since he was booked into the Vanderburgh County Jail.

Chew is accused of shooting Officer Sam Taylor while attempting to flee from the scene of a stolen vehicle early Sunday morning. Officer Taylor suffered serious injuries during the shooting, and Police Chief Philip Smith said he may lose the use of his legs.

In a public comment following Chew’s court appearance, the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office said Chew is being treated fairly in jail, and he has access to medical care. They also posted video that appears to show Chew eating on his own, and a deputy assisting him in his cell.

Dozens of officers appeared in court on Tuesday in support of Officer Taylor. The man who police say gave Chew the gun used in the shooting was also arrested after authorities say he purchased the weapon without disclosing a felony indictment.