Again, I am not suggesting that Mr. Shelton is innocent or guilty. A vast majority of the public is not exactly aware of how the criminal justice system works in Illinois or in other states. However after doing some poking around and asking some questions with a few friends of mine that are law students. Mr. Shelton needs to be charged (probable cause) and then later a “discovery” has to be created. (Meaning evidence the state/St. Clair County has against the accused). In turn any witnesses and evidence that the defense comes up with has to ALSO be disclosed to the arresting authorities for cross referencing puroses. After that motions are filed for various things…(ex…motions to surpress certain evidence that may have been collected without cause, or that has no relevance), motions to reduce bail, and etc.

This case is going to be hung up in the court system for a REALLY long time. Witnesses need to be interviewed, the victim needs to be examined for closer analysis of what happened, background checks, and various other things. He’ll be allowed a trial by jury…that is unless he waives his right to one and pleads “no contest” or in other states “nolo contredere” where he will sign a form, and then be sentenced later in sentencing court for the 3 felonies or whatever he would be pleading guilty to. (This is however not the case)

Lastly, it’s sad to hear that someone would want to harm an innocent person to try and attempt to murder them for WHATEVER reason. I feel for the family, friends, and neighbors that were surrounded by Ashley Reeves. My skin crawls when I think about it because I have a really young sister that could’ve been a victim of something like this. But through the grace of God she is fine. If Mr. Shelton did indeed commit these horrible crimes then he should remain in jail for life.

God Bless the Reeves Family and Friends, and whoever else that was drastically effected by these actions.

Don’t be offended if I point that out. Where did you learn that Ms. Reeves was pregnant? Personally I don’t buy it, and as much as many people would like to hear me come down on Mr. Shelton….it really isn’t my place. That is for a judge and jury to decide. Not the general public.

Before people start sqwauking about pregnancy, and whatever unfounded ideas they have the best idea is to remain quiet and observant. I am not suggesting that he is innocent or guilty, but I have friends and family in the legal industry. It’s best to keep opinions to ourselves.

For that matter…I hope for Mr. Shelton’s sake that he is innocent. But if the evidence points elsewhere then he will be answering to the IDOC and God.