49 years in prison for McHenry man who killed, entombed ex-girlfriend
A McHenry man was sentenced to 49 years in prison Wednesday for fatally shooting his ex-girlfriend and entombing her body in his home until it was discovered in late 2013.
“The crime you committed was horrible, diabolical and unforgivable,” Judge Sharon Prather said as she sentenced William J. Ross, 65, who was arrested in Las Vegas and returned to Illinois for trial. “In this case, the evidence against you was overwhelming.”
A jury convicted Ross over the summer of first-degree murder of Jacqueline Schaefer, 49, whose skeletal remains were found in a bedroom in Ross' home that had been sealed with caulk, molding and paint.
The jury also determined Ross, an alcoholic with a history of abusing Schaefer, fired the shot into her head that killed her. That finding activated a mandatory, 25-year add-on to the 24-year sentence Prather issued for murder.
Before Ross was sentenced, McHenry County Assistant State's Attorney Michael Combs read a letter from Schaefer's sister, Tracy Flathau. In it, Flathau recalled Schaefer's kindness and huge heart, but she also noted her struggles with alcoholism and fact she was isolated with few friends.
“It was evident Mr. Ross had a type that he rented to. Jackie fit that type. Jackie made a perfect victim, someone who no one would miss. I'm here to say she's missed by many.”
Combs argued that Ross's actions were coldblooded and calculated.
“He's a misogynist. He hates women. You have to have ice water in your veins to bury that body in that room,” Combs said.
Ross briefly addressed Prather, saying he had been a good, productive member of society, maintaining his innocence and not apologizing to her family.
“I do miss Jacqueline Schaefer. I'm not lying about that,” Ross said. “I'm not a coldblooded killer. I'm basically a good person with some rough edges.”
Ross must serve the entire sentence.