A Sangamon County jury returned a guilty verdict against Jared Staake on July 10, 2024, in the March 2023 shooting of Jeremy Evans.
On March 15, 2023, Jeremy Evans was shot outside of his Springfield home by a masked individual. Evidence presented at trial showed that Jared Staake, while wearing a mask, approached Mr. Evans from behind and shot him twice in the leg with a handgun. The Springfield Police Department responded to the scene, rendering aid to the victim and beginning an investigation. Springfield Police Detectives Dan Weiss and Brian Harhausen testified regarding their work to identify the suspect through surveillance footage and witness interviews, including an interview of a co-defendant. The jury also heard testimony that Staake attempted to conceal evidence of his crime, including hiding the slide to a Glock 9mm believed to be the weapon used. The defendant was convicted on two counts, Armed Violence and Aggravated Battery with a Firearm, and found not guilty of the lesser charge of Attempt Armed Robbery.

The case was prosecuted by Sangamon County First Assistant State's Attorney Mary Beth Rodgers and Assistant State's Attorney Phil Maddox. Staake faces 15 to 30 years in prison when he is sentenced by Sangamon County Circuit Judge Ryan Cadagin on October 8, 2024. Staake remains in the custody of the Sangamon County Jail pending sentencing.