Macoupin County State’s Attorney Jennifer Watson announced on Monday six charges against two individuals relating to the 2015 New Year’s Day murder of Cody Adams, 34, in Woodburn.
The charges filed against Chancey Hutson, 28 of Granite City, and William Kavanaugh, 34 of Edwardsville, were formally charged in Macoupin County on Monday, July 15, with three counts of first-degree murder, home invasion, aggravated battery, and residential burglary.
Watson’s press release claimed Hutson and Kavanaugh went to Adams’ home on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2015, with the intent to commit a theft knowing Adams to be home at the time. The press release said Adams struggled with the pair before a single shot from a .380 caliber handgun struck him in the upper arm and chest. He died shortly after being shot while the pair fled the scene.
The Macoupin County Sheriff’s Office requested help from the public on January 15, 2015, and said residents at the house told authorities that an armed, masked intruder entered the residence and fought with Adams and other family members before opening fire and leaving. The Macoupin and Montgomery County Crime Stoppers increased their $1,000 reward to $3,000 in April 2015 for anyone with information that would lead to an arrest.
“It has been a long time coming and finally today those responsible have been charged,” Macoupin County State’s Attorney Jennifer Watson commented. “Several officers have worked on this case seeking the accused and evident to convict. I appreciate their hard work and dedication in the interest of justice.
Illinois State Police Zone 6 and the Macoupin County State’s Attorney’s Office have worked closely since the day of Adams’ murder. Illinois State Police was requested by Macoupin County Sheriff’s Department to coordinate the investigation while actively participating with the Illinois State Police. The public is reminded that a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
“I hope the family can find some comfort in the fact that those responsible have been charged with Cody’s death,” Watson concluded.