A Rockford man has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for shooting a 28-year-old man in the face during a confrontation in April 2022. On August 16, Bernard Simmons III, 34, was sentenced after an hour-long court hearing where arguments and testimonies were presented.
Judge Brandon Maher imposed the sentence, which requires Simmons to serve at least 85% of his time in the Illinois Department of Corrections. He also received credit for 763 days already served.
The shooting occurred around midnight on April 6, 2022, at W & S Food & Liquor on Broadway in Rockford, following an argument between Simmons and the victim. The incident left the victim with severe injuries, including facial paralysis and PTSD.
Prosecutor David Smith read a victim impact statement during the hearing, emphasizing the lasting impact of the violence on the victim’s life.
Simmons, who pleaded guilty to aggravated battery on June 27, took full responsibility for his actions in a statement to the court, requesting a second chance. As part of his plea agreement, two additional charges were dismissed.
This case highlights the devastating consequences of gun violence and its profound effects on individuals and communities.
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For more detailed coverage on the sentencing and crime in Rockford, visit WIFR.
