Notorious crime figure Jolly shot to death on Milwaukee's north side

LZ Jolly Jr., one of Milwaukee's most notorious crime figures known for beating numerous felony charges, including one for homicide, was shot to death during a fight outside a north side tavern, police said Friday.

Jolly, 42, was shot shortly before 11:30 p.m. Thursday in the 2500 block of West Hopkins Street, police said.

Jolly was one of Milwaukee's most wanted fugitives for nearly three years after he and others were charged in a fatal drug-related shooting.

He had been arrested at least 17 times on suspicion of murder, shootings, carrying guns, dealing drugs and other crimes.

Most of Jolly's charges were dismissed.

On Friday police released a surveillance image of a man wanted in Jolly's killing.

Police described the man as black, in his 30s, with long dreadlocks and a pointy nose. He is  6 feet tall, weighing 200 pounds and wore a gray jacket, blue jeans and black shoes.

He is also armed with a handgun, police said.

Jolly had faced life in prison after being charged in connection with the fatal shooting of James Reese, 51, in a drug house in 2005.

He eventually agreed in an Alford plea to a charge of recklessly endangering safety and was sentenced to 16 months behind bars — time he already served in jail awaiting a trial — plus five years' probation.

In an Alford plea, a defendant admits there is enough evidence for a conviction but is also allowed to maintain innocence.

Anyone with information on the man suspected of killing Jolly is asked to call Milwaukee police at (414) 935-7360.