Errol Shakes, 53, was first charged on October 21, 2021, after Libertyville Police Department and Vernon Hills Police Department responded to a report of a stabbing on a public transportation bus. The men had met each other in the past and exchanged words immediately prior to the stabbing. 

“This was an unprovoked and brutal attack. This offender will be removed from the community and sent to prison after the success of our trial team. I want to thank ASAs Lenzini and Caskey for their outstanding work to make sure that a clear message is sent that violence will not be tolerated in our community. Our victim specialists will support the victim going forward,” said State’s Attorney Rinehart after the verdict.    

The bench trial began on Tuesday, December 5, lasting two days, with State resting on Tuesday afternoon and Defense resting on Wednesday morning.  Presiding Judge George Strickland heard from several State witnesses, which included law enforcement and medical personnel.  

Police officers testified that they responded to the scene where they found the victim with severe injuries. Officers and medical personnel treated the victim before transporting him to the hospital. Video from the bus showed Shakes stabbed the victim multiple times.  

Medical personnel described the severity of the injuries the victim sustained from being stabbed by Shakes multiple times.  

The charge of Attempt Murder carries a sentencing range of 6-30 years to be served at 85%. Mr. Shakes has remained in local custody since the arrest, and will be sentenced on January 19, 2024, by Judge Strickland.