A resident of Will County has admitted guilt in a case involving attempted murder and a hate crime following a 2024 incident where he shot his neighbor. The plea was entered on Wednesday.
John Shadbar, aged 72, confessed to shooting Melissa Robertson in the backyard of her home in Lockport during May 2024.
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According to the prosecution, Shadbar not only attacked Robertson but also reportedly hurled racial slurs at her. Robertson’s partner and children are Black, adding a significant racial dimension to the crime.
The court heard that the neighbors had a long-standing feud, marked by years of hostility.
Although Robertson survived the attack, she sustained serious injuries, having been shot twice — once in the chest and once in the hand.
“She was targeted solely because her neighbor disapproved of her children’s race. It’s utterly unacceptable in today’s society,” remarked her aunt, Jeanne Beyer.
Prosecutors dropped several other weapons and assault charges as part of a plea deal.
Shadbar was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
He previously pleaded not guilty.
In her victim impact statement, Robertson told the court Shadbar sentenced her to a life of nonstop pain as a result of the shooting.
She says she hopes he never sees another day of freedom; he could spend the rest of his life in prison.
Accompanied by family, including her two sons, Robertson left the courthouse in Joliet for what she hoped would be the last time.
“I wish it never happened. I’m glad it’s over now,” she said. “The worst time of my life.This has not been good.The hardest time ever: I’ll never be the same.”
Robertson says she and her two sons are getting therapy.
They are celebrating the end of the ordeal, but she says she feels for Shadbar, who sat alone with no family in court, looking old and feeble.
“It has destroyed everything. But, at the same time, I genuinely forgive the guy. It was one stupid mistake, and it landed him where he’s going,” Robertson said.
Robertson says she’s had countless surgeries and likely has more in her future.She is still unable to use her right hand.
“This is a lifelong injury.The quality of her life is never gonna be the same,” Beyer said.
Shadbar has been in custody, and will get credit for 631 days of time served.
The judge says he must serve 85% of the 20-year sentence.
The Will County state’s attorney declined to comment.
A GoFundMe for the Robertson family has raised over $15,000.
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