Kankakee County, IL – A Kankakee County jury has returned a guilty verdict in a road rage case that escalated into a firearm confrontation, according to a statement released Tuesday by Kankakee County State’s Attorney Jim Rowe.
According to the State’s Attorney’s Office, Robert Reardanz Jr., 41, was found guilty of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon (firearm) following a jury trial that concluded on January 27. Prosecutors said the charge stemmed from a road rage incident involving a 21-year-old woman.
Authorities said the incident began as aggressive driving behavior, including following the victim and flashing headlights. The situation allegedly escalated when Reardanz exited his vehicle during the confrontation and brandished a firearm.
The case was investigated by the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office, including Detective Sgt. Coach and Deputy Malpasuto. Investigators were able to recover both a recording of the incident and the firearm involved, evidence prosecutors said proved critical in securing the conviction.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant State’s Attorneys Dave Bickel and Sabrina Ostrom. The State’s Attorney’s Office also acknowledged the role of Victim and Witness Advocate Amy Stroo, citing her support of the victim throughout the court process.
Reardanz will be sentenced at a later date, court officials said.
The State’s Attorney’s Office also highlighted a broader legal concern, noting that in Illinois, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon is currently classified as a Class A misdemeanor and is not a detainable offense under the SAFE-T Act. Prosecutors said they hope lawmakers will consider changes to elevate penalties for crimes involving firearms during the upcoming legislative session in Springfield.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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