Romell L. Jones, an 11-year-old African American boy, tragically lost his life on January 11, 2016, in Alton, Illinois. The incident occurred around 5:15 PM when police officers responded to a report of shots fired at a community recreation center on Acorn Street in the Alton Acres housing project. Upon arrival, they discovered Romell had been struck in the chest by a gunshot round. He was immediately taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The investigation revealed that Ta’Mon F. Ford, an 18-year-old African American male, was involved in the incident. Ford had been in a vehicle with several other people and went to the area over a social media dispute he had against some other individuals. Romell was not involved in that dispute. As a result of the investigation, Ta’Mon Ford was charged with two counts of 1st Degree Murder, and his bail was set at no bond.
The case proceeded to trial, where Ford was found guilty of 1st Degree Murder. During the trial, it was revealed that Ford had a long history of behavioral problems and violence. He had been released from juvenile detention on his 18th birthday and committed the murder approximately three months later. Witnesses testified that Ford fired a gun into a crowd at the Alton Acres Community Center while sitting in the back of a red Buick Valero. Romell, who was waiting for his basketball coach, was struck in the back and pronounced dead at a local hospital shortly thereafter.
At the sentencing hearing, Ford maintained his innocence but acknowledged being in the car from which shots were fired. He was sentenced to 55 years in prison, with 30 years for murder and a 25-year enhancement because a firearm was used. Ford must serve 100 percent of the sentence. The prosecution described the crime as a senseless and reckless act, emphasizing that Romell was a truly innocent victim.
Romell's mother, Sonja Dixon, described her son as an incredible brother who loved family, school, and basketball. She expressed the profound impact his death had on their lives, stating that they have not been able to move on since the killing. Dixon called Ford a cold-hearted coward and an evil individual, asserting that he deserves to hurt and suffer for the rest of his life.
The case highlighted the devastating consequences of gun violence and the impact it has on innocent lives. Romell L. Jones's death serves as a tragic reminder of the need for continued efforts to address and prevent such senseless acts of violence in communities.
