The shooting death of a 70-year-old man has landed a 16-year-old in prison for 27 years. Vinshawn Sherrod of Pembroke Township, pleaded guilty Wednesday to first-degree murder. In exchange for the guilty plea, Judge Clark Erickson sentenced Sherrod to the lengthy prison term.

Prosecutors noted, the teenager was eligible for up to 60 years.

Sherrod, who was 15 at the time, admitted to shooting 70-year-old Thad Wells in July 2013. The boy and two other men, attempted to break in and steal firearms Wells had in his home.

He gets credit for time served from his arrest Sept. 20, 2013. He will be eligible for parole in September 2040.
Sherrod was facing charges for murder, armed violence, attempted residential burglary and possession of a stolen firearm.

Prosecutors said Sherrod and two other men went to Wells' home to steal firearms. Unable to enter the home, Sherrod fired his weapon through a door, striking Wells.

Kankakee Sheriff's deputies discovered Wells' decomposed body when a friend called in July 2013 requesting a welfare check.

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