McHenry Times

John Maki of Richmond, Illinois, has pleaded guilty to one count of First-Degree Murder in exchange for a prison sentence of twenty-six years and six months. The announcement was made by Patrick D. Kenneally, McHenry County State’s Attorney.

According to Kenneally, Maki entered the negotiated plea on April 24, 2024, following an incident on May 15, 2019, where police responded to a call at Maki's residence on Serenity Path, Richmond. The police found 19-year-old Dylan Sanchez shot to death in the home, with Maki being identified as the second individual present.

The investigation revealed that Maki killed Sanchez, and forensic evidence, including DNA analysis, implicated Maki in the crime. It was disclosed that Maki and Sanchez were acquaintances, and Sanchez had been invited to live with Maki before the tragic incident occurred.

Additionally, it was reported that Maki, upon being initially encountered at the scene, was transported to the hospital due to hallucinations and self-inflicted wounds. Subsequent tests showed the presence of cannabinoids in Maki's system, with cannabis-related items found at the crime scene. Maki, who had no prior criminal history, was initially found unfit to stand trial but was later deemed restored to fitness in October 2022.

The case was investigated by the McHenry County Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant States Attorney Ashley A. Romito of the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office.