A federal judge in Illinois District handed down a 25-year prison sentence to Robert Burgess, a 35-year-old man found guilty of multiple charges related to a violent crime in 2018.
The incident occurred on March 20, 2018, when Burgess allegedly shot and injured two victims during a botched robbery attempt at a local convenience store in Chicago.
According to court documents, Burgess was charged with two counts of assault with intent to commit murder, one count of attempted armed robbery, and one count of possessing a firearm by a felon.
In October 2020, after a two-week trial, a jury delivered a guilty verdict on all counts against Burgess.
During the sentencing phase, prosecutors presented evidence of Burgess’s prior convictions, including a 2005 conviction for armed robbery, which led to his felony status and disqualified him from possessing a firearm.
In a statement, the judge emphasized the severity of Burgess’s crimes and the need for accountability.
Burgess’s defense team argued for a lighter sentence, citing their client’s troubled past and potential for rehabilitation. However, the court ultimately sided with the prosecution, deeming Burgess a danger to society.
Key Facts
- Case: Burgess
- Court: ILCD Federal District
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Federal Court Records

