Second suspect pleads guilty in homeless man’s death

Three men were charged in the murder and only one is awaiting trial.(Courtesy McLean County Jail)
Three men were charged in the murder and only one is awaiting trial.(Courtesy McLean County Jail)

By Terry James

BLOOMINGTON – Another suspect in the 2014 death of a homeless man in Bloomington is admitting guilt.

20 year old Tory Washington has pleaded guilty to the murder of 56 year old Ronald Smith.  Smith was attacked while sleeping in O’Neil Park and died from his injuries almost a month later.

18 year old Willie Chambers was the first to plead guilty.  In exchange for the guilty pleas Washington will be sentenced to a prison term not to exceed 35 years.  He could have faced 60 years in prison.

19 year old Anthony Davis-Dickson still faces murder charges.

Police say Ronald Smith was kicked and punched by the men until being found by an officer.  He had severe injuries to his stomach.

Terry James can be reached at [email protected].

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