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Third Suspect Charged In Officer's Shooting Death

(CBS) - Nearly two years after the shooting death of a Chicago Police Officer another suspect is now charged in that crime.

Officer Clifton Lewis was an 8-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department at the time of his murder.

Police say the arrest of 25 year-old Alexander Villa was a long time coming.

CBS 2's Courtney Gousman reports Villa's now charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery, and armed robbery for his alleged role in officer Lewis' death on December 29, 2011. He was denied bond in a court appearance Saturday.

Third Suspect Charged In Officer's Shooting Death

Officer Clifton Lewis was off-duty, working security for a North Austin convenience store. Lewis was shot four times during a botched robbery and he died at the scene.

In January of 2012, prosecutors say Edgardo Colon and Tyrone Clay confessed to their roles in the crimes. Both are charged with murder.

Investigators revealed Clay and another man fired the shots that killed officer Lewis, while Colon drove the getaway car.

Prosecutors say the men walked away with $670 from M And M Quick Foods convenience store and officer Lewis' service weapon.

"It is a measure of comfort to bring to justice the dangerous and despicable individuals who committed this horrible act," said Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy.

Last year prosecutors told CBS 2 a total of four men were involved in these crimes. Villa's arrest makes three now behind bars.

A reward was also being offered in this case.

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