Police Officer Michael Anthony Ceriale

Police Officer Michael Anthony Ceriale

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Friday, August 21, 1998

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Michael Anthony Ceriale

Police Officer Michael Ceriale succumbed to a gunshot wound he received while undercover conducting narcotics surveillance at 4101 S. Federal Street in Chicago.

During the surveillance, he was spotted by the offenders, who entered a nearby apartment building and informed one of the gang's "security guards," a 16-year-old juvenile. The juvenile exited the building and fired once in his direction from about 60 to 70 yards, striking Officer Ceriale in the abdomen, just below his vest.

Officer Ceriale passed away from his wounds six days later.

The subject who murdered Officer Ceriale was sentenced to 60 years in prison for the murder.

Officer Ceriale had served with the Chicago Police Department for over one year. He was survived by his parents and grandmother.

A mounted unit horse was named Mikey C. in his honor in 2003.

Bio

  • Age 26
  • Tour 1 year, 3 months
  • Badge 17429

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Saturday, August 15, 1998
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Sentenced to 60 years

narcotics, ambush, juvenile offender, surveillance, undercover

Most Recent Reflection

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Hey cousin, I’ve never spoken publicly about our relationship outside of close family, family friends, and my significant other. I was very young when you passed away so it doesn’t seem right to speak about someone I didn’t know. The few memories I do have of you seem like dreams. You were my godfather and we were destined to be very close. You came over all the time to hang out with my family and I think you took your older cousin/godfather role very seriously. Your passing has always been a shadow over our family and left a big hole in it.

People might not know it but you won the city wide Golden Gloves tournament. I took up boxing as well and think of that fact occasionally. Would have been fun to talk about the sweet science.

My brother and I became very close with your mom. We talk often and she’s one of my favorite people in the world. My brother and I do our best to take care of her but you know how she can be.

Anyway, thought this was a little testament to write.

Anonymous
Cousin

January 22, 2023

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