Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – A Sangamon County jury returned a guilty verdict against Dayne Woods on Wednesday in the stabbing death of Dohndre Hughes.

After trial, the jury convicted Woods of First-Degree Murder, Home Invasion, Armed Robbery and Theft.

According to the testimony, Dayne Woods and others planned an armed robbery of Dohndre Hughes. In the early morning hours of February 23, 2018, Woods and a co-defendant forced their way through the back door of Dohndre Hughes’ residence, located at 1900 block of E. Jackson Street in Springfield.

Once inside the men yelled “police!” and ordered Hughes and another individual to the ground. When Dohndre Hughes did not comply, Woods stabbed him in the chest, took money, and fled the residence.

Hughes died as a result of the stab wound.

Evidence presented at trial indicated that Woods and a co-defendant entered the home with the intent of committing an armed robbery, and when a struggle ensued inside, Woods stabbed Hughes.

The stabbing occurred during the commission of a forcible felony; therefore, the resulting death of Hughes constitutes First Degree Murder under Illinois law.

After an investigation by the Springfield Police Department, the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office charged Woods and co-defendants with First Degree Murder, Home Invasion, Armed Robbery and Theft on March 1, 2018.

Said State’s Attorney John Milhiser, “The jury’s verdict in this case should serve as a reminder that if you engage in dangerous, violent behavior in our community, you will be held accountable for the deadly consequences of your actions. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Dohndre Hughes who this week had to sit through a trial and listen to the tragic details of the end of Dohndre’s life.”

Milhiser commended the Springfield Police Department for its hard work insolving this case.