THE FOLLOWING IS A VERMILION COUNTY STATE’S ATTORNEY’S OFFICE RELEASE
People v. Javon Hackett 2021-CF-608, 2023-CF-717
On February 10, 2025, Javon Hackett (DOB: 9/27/1997), pleaded guilty to two counts of Unlawful Possession of a Weapon by Felon, both class 2 felonies. In 2021-CF-608, Hackett was sentenced to 3 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections and in 2023-CF-717 to 5 ½ years in the Illinois Department of Corrections. The sentences will be served consecutively. Following his imprisonment, Hackett will serve a term of 12 months mandatory supervised release. Judge Mark Goodwin presided over the plea and sentencing.
The People presented evidence in 2021-CF-608 that on January 14, 2021, Danville Police were present at the residence of Javon Hackett for an unrelated investigation when officers observed a semiautomatic rifle in plain view inside the residence. Danville Police obtained a search warrant for the residence and seized a Romanian AK-47 style semiautomatic rifle. The Illinois State Police Crime Lab conducted forensic analysis and confirmed Javon Hackett’s DNA was present on the firearm.
The People also presented evidence in 2023-CF-717 that on November 18, 2023, Danville Police responded to a residence on East Fairchild Street for a report of shots fired. Witnesses reported that Javon Hackett attempted to enter the residence where occupants were present and drew a firearm after he was told to leave. Victims stated to police that Hackett ran to Shasta Street where he lived. Officers responded to Hackett’s residence on Shasta and saw the defendant through a window. A search warrant of the residence was executed and police located a loaded Smith & Wesson M&P .40 caliber semiautomatic handgun in a plastic bag behind the refrigerator. Scientists with the Illinois State Police Crime Lab confirmed through forensic analysis that Javon Hackett’s DNA was present on the firearm.
State’s Attorney Jacqueline Lacy said, “I want to extend my gratitude to the Danville Police Department for their dedication in working to remove firearms from the hands of dangerous felons who repeatedly violate the law. My office is committed to pursuing serious sentences that send a strong message to the repeat offenders who pose a threat to the safety of the good people of Vermilion County.”
