A Peoria man, Deandre Ward, 24, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for shooting his ex-girlfriend, which left her paralyzed from the waist down. The sentence comes after Ward pleaded guilty to aggravated battery on April 17, following a violent incident in July 2024.
The Incident That Changed a Life
The tragic incident took place in Peoria, Illinois, on July 2024, when Ward’s 22-year-old ex-girlfriend got into a fight with another woman while armed with a knife. After the altercation ended, the victim tried to run away, but Ward shot her in the back.
The bullet struck her kidney and spine, leaving her permanently paralyzed from the waist down. At the time, the couple had recently broken up.
Impact on the Victim’s Life
During the sentencing hearing, the victim shared the devastating impact the shooting had on her life. She explained that she is no longer able to carry out basic daily activities, such as bathing or using the restroom, without assistance.
She also suffers from constant pain, requires daily medication, and has been hospitalized several times over the past year. “I’ll never be the same,” the victim tearfully stated in court.
Ward’s Apology and Court’s Response
At the hearing, Ward expressed regret for his actions, saying, “I’m sorry for the pain the last 11 months.” Despite his apology, the judge rebuked him, emphasizing that the victim will always be defined by his actions.
Ward was given credit for 351 days of time already served in jail and must serve at least 85% of his 20-year sentence in the Illinois Department of Corrections.
A Life Forever Changed
Ward’s sentence serves as a reminder of the consequences of domestic violence and the irreversible impact it can have on victims. While Ward may have expressed remorse, the victim’s life will never be the same, and the pain she suffers every day is a result of his violent actions.
