Illinois judge sentences man with 'lengthy criminal history' to decades in prison for weapons-related charges
Carnell Wesson, 31
LAKE COUNTY, Ill. - An Illinois judge sentenced a 31-year-old man to 40 years in prison following convictions in two separate weapon-related cases, the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office announced.
Carnell Wesson was first arrested in March 2022 after Zion police found two firearms in a vehicle where he was a passenger. He was charged with being an armed habitual criminal.
Wesson remained in the Lake County Jail until September 2022, when he posted a $15,000 bond and was released. Officials noted this occurred before Illinois’ bail reform law took effect, which now restricts bond for firearm offenses at a judge’s discretion.
While out on bond, Wesson was arrested again in December 2022 for aggravated discharge of a weapon and being an armed habitual criminal in connection with a shooting.
Wesson was convicted in September 2023 for the March 2022 offense following a jury trial. A second jury convicted him in October 2023 for the December 2022 incident.
During sentencing, prosecutors highlighted Wesson’s violent behavior, gang affiliation and lengthy criminal history. A witness described an altercation involving Wesson and another inmate while in custody, and another witness testified about his gang ties.
Prosecutors requested a sentence between 30 and 40 years. The judge agreed, sentencing Wesson to 15 years for the March 2022 incident and 25 years for the December 2022 offense, to be served consecutively for a total of 40 years.
Wesson received credit for 855 days served. He must serve 85% of his sentence.