WAUKEGAN, Ill. — A suburban Chicago man has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for a deadly shooting that occurred during a 2022 Independence Day parade. The Lake County Judge, Victoria Rossetti, handed down seven consecutive life sentences for the first-degree murder charges against Robert E. Crimo III. The sentencing followed emotional testimony from survivors and the families of those killed in the shooting.
During the sentencing hearing, Rossetti expressed the horror and pain inflicted on July 4th, referring to Crimo as having a complete disregard for human life. The case had experienced delays as Crimo went back on a plea deal, fired his public defenders, and even represented himself at one point. Just before his trial was set to begin, Crimo changed his plea to guilty.
The shooting wounded dozens of individuals in the Chicago suburb, ranging from an 8-year-old boy who was left paralyzed to people in their 80s. Survivors shared how their lives have been affected since the tragic event, with a mother of a young victim calling Crimo “cowardly” for not attending the hearing.
Prosecutors argued that Crimo was responsible for firing 83 shots over 40 seconds during the attack. Crimo pleaded guilty to multiple counts of first-degree murder and attempted murder. Prosecutors detailed evidence that included a chilling videotaped confession where Crimo described his actions leading up to the shooting.
The community in the upscale suburb north of Chicago was deeply impacted by the attack, as witnesses recounted the terrifying aftermath during the trial. The victims of the shooting were remembered by their loved ones during the hearing. Crimo’s father, a former mayoral candidate, also faced legal issues related to his son’s possession of a gun license.
The sentencing of Crimo marked a significant moment in the case, offering closure to the impacted community members and families of the victims. The tragic events of that Independence Day parade will forever be etched in the memories of those who were affected, as they continue to heal and seek justice for their loved ones.