A Kankakee trial date of May 18 has been set for the man accused of killing a Momence bar-owner in early February. 47-year-old Julius Burkes was arraigned in Circuit Court (Monday). Burkes pleaded not guilty, while his defense attorney filed and was granted a motion for a speedy trial.

Back in Court (Tuesday), Judge William Dickenson set a May 18 trial date. The Daily-Journal reports Judge Dickenson ordered Burkes remain jailed pending trial. Burkes is represented by Assistant Public Defender Jamie Boyd.

Burkes is accused of the execution-style killing of 30-year-old Courtney Drysdale. She was shot and killed as she opened for business at the bar she owned on Route 114, east of Momence. (The Line) on February 2. Burkes is charged with felony 3-counts of first-degree murder, armed robbery, and for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
If convicted of first-degree murder, the sentencing range is 20 to 60 years.

94.1 WGFA