Family Honors Judge Raymond Myles Ahead Of Sentencing Of Convicted Killer

Nearly ten years ago, Cook County Judge Raymond Myles was tragically shot during a botched robbery outside his South Side home. A native of the West Side and the eldest of ten siblings, Myles played a crucial role in his family as a patriarch and was a respected figure in Cook County’s judiciary. At a hearing before his convicted murderer’s sentencing, family members reflected on Myles’ legacy, recalling him as a caring father and dedicated judge.

His son, Raymond Myles Jr., shared memories of receiving the devastating news while stationed in Afghanistan with the U.S. Army. Describing his father through various accolades, Raymond Jr. emphasized their personal bond by stating, “I knew him as ‘Dad.’” He expressed a deep yearning to converse one last time, saying, “I would give anything to have one more conversation with my father.”

Myles’ sister, Vernell Tibbs, articulated the enduring grief felt by their family. During a poignant victim impact statement, Tibbs conveyed the profound sorrow with lines such as, “I could empty the ocean with a thimble before I can understand why.” She emphasized Myles’ significance, remarking, “If I had a million tongues, I could not explain how important Judge Myles was to our family.” Approximately 30 relatives and friends gathered at the Cook County Criminal Courthouse to attend Monday’s hearing.

Earl Wilson, convicted of murder earlier this year, faced charges from the April 10, 2017 incident on South Forest Avenue. His co-defendant, Joshua Smith, accepted a plea of guilty to armed robbery in 2014 and received a 35-year prison sentence. The trial took place at the Bridgeview courthouse under DuPage County Judge Jeffrey McKay, who presided to avoid conflicts of interest from Cook County judges.

The shooting, marking the death of a judge after over three decades, shook the local judicial community and resulted in a comprehensive police investigation. Myles, accompanied by his girlfriend Venita Parrish, habitually went to the gym before work, making them targets on that fateful morning. Parrish testified against Wilson, recounting observances around the residence and her urgent 911 call pleading for swift assistance.

During the robbery, Parrish sustained a leg injury. She recalled Wilson’s aggressive commands during her testimony. Sentencing in the case is slated for mid-November with a consensus on life imprisonment, though prosecutors are advocating for harsher terms. Attorney LaFanzo Palmer remarked, “He’s never going home again — ever.”

A heartfelt statement came from retired Cook County Judge Nicholas Ford, a colleague within the Leighton Criminal Courts Building. He praised Myles for his impactful efforts on behalf of youth, saying, “He was a beacon of light… How can anyone possibly do anything more noble than that?”

Myles’ niece, Tamika Tibbs, shared a childhood memory of earning straight A’s, earning the nickname “Miss A” from her uncle. Her words expressed the pride and motivation Myles instilled in her, wishing to hear that nickname once more. The hearing concluded with Wilson’s tearful denial, asserting his innocence regarding Myles’ death.

“I did not kill his father,” Wilson declared. “Why would I want to take such an asset from my community?”