A Galesburg man was convicted of attempted murder and other felonies for restraining, sexually assaulting and trying to kill a juvenile by setting a fire in a residence last summer.
A Knox County jury on Tuesday found Jason D. Fielder guilty of attempt first degree murder, aggravated arson, aggravated criminal sexual assault and unlawful restraint for the violent attack on Aug. 15, 2024.
The attack involved Fielder restraining the victim with zip ties and securing them to a wooden beam in a residence’s basement. Evidence showed the defendant then set a fire in the kitchen above, allegedly intending to kill the victim. DNA analysis confirmed the defendant’s DNA on the victim’s body.
Six expert witnesses supported the prosecution’s case, including forensic scientists, a fire investigator, a digital forensics expert, and two sexual assault nurse examiners. The aggravated criminal sexual assault charge carries a mandatory consecutive sentence, requiring any prison term for that count to be served in addition to sentences for the other convictions.
“This verdict represents the strength of the evidence and the commitment of our office to pursuing justice for victims of violent crime,” said Knox County State’s Attorney Ashley M. Worby. “We are grateful to the jury for their service and to the many professionals whose expertise helped bring this case to a just conclusion.”
Sentencing will be scheduled for a later date.