A Peoria man has been convicted of first-degree murder in connection with the shooting death of his girlfriend, Latrista L. Warfield, a year ago.
Derreck S. Hall, 46, testified in his own defense during the two-day bench trial. The court rejected Hall's claims that he was provoked.
Warfield, 37, was shot multiple times, including twice from behind, on the morning of Jan. 19, 2025. The incident occurred in the 1400 block of West Candlelight Court in the north Peoria Grove Apartment Complex.
In a news release, Peoria County State's Attorney Jodi Hoos said there was clear evidence of intent, including Hall leaving the scene, changing clothes and initially concealing the firearm before turning himself in 12 hours after the shooting. He was formally charged with Warfield's killing on Jan. 22, 2025.
Hall also was found guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm by a repeat felony offender.
He is scheduled for sentencing on March 4.
