An Iroquois County jury (Tuesday) returned a ‘not guilty’ verdict for attempted murder against Jerry Pintelon. But the jury found the former Watseka resident ‘guilty’ of aggravated discharge of a firearm and aggravated battery with a firearm.

The charges stem from an August 22, 2015 incident in which Pintelon shot Kylie Schwartz three-times while she stood outside a residence, next door to Pintelon’s residence on Ash Street in Watseka.

Pintelon faces 6-30 years when sentenced June 28th. He was taken into custody by Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police.

The state’s case against the 28-year-old Pintelon was based on the defendant taking matters into his own hands in settling his annoyance with the neighbors’ noisy parties and alleged drug activity, pointed out during the trial.

The jury deliberated about four-hours before returning its verdict.

All three charges were Class X felonies. Prosecuting Assistant State’s Attorney Alex O’Brien said the jury took time to review all the charges and evidence .........

"The jury apparently wasn't convinced of his (Pintelon) intent that evening, but in regards to the aggravated discharge and aggravated battery.... I'm happy with the verdict," O'Brien said.

Pintelon was identified by Schwartz and a neighbor, Joe Seibring, who witnessed the shooting and told the court there was no doubt whatsoever, Jerry Pintelon was the shooter” that night.

Defense Attorney Ron Boyer tried to convince the jury his client was wrongly identified, even pointing to Seibring as the shooter. Boyer called it ‘sloppy police work,’ saying officers did a poor job gathering evidence and talking to witnesses.

State’s Attorney Jim Devine said "sometimes when you have a poor case to defend, you have to take desperate measures to point a finger in another direction. It didn't work in this case."

Other law enforcement testimony pointed to ballistics, gun residue and the fact, it was Jerry Pintelon’s gun that matched evidence at the scene.

Boyer declined comment afterwards, only saying there will be an appeal.

94.1 WGFA