Peoria Standard

June 5, 2024, Peoria, IL – Dmitri G. Rogatchev, 46, was found guilty of first-degree murder today for the killing of Sandra Jackson, 75, in December 2019. Rogatchev served as Jackson's live-in caretaker and became frustrated with her on the night of the incident due to the volume of her television. During an argument over the noise level, Rogatchev struck and kicked Jackson, resulting in a fatal brain injury.

At approximately 2:30 am on December 3, 2019, a 911 call reported an unconscious female at an apartment in the 500 block of NE Monroe. Upon arrival, first responders were informed by Rogatchev that Jackson had consumed wine with her prescription medication and subsequently fell asleep. This account was contradicted during the trial by testimonies from Jackson’s emergency room physician and a forensic pathologist. Both professionals confirmed that no alcohol was detected in Jackson’s blood and that her brain injuries could not have resulted from a fall.

The autopsy revealed two significant injuries to Jackson's head—one on each side—leading to substantial bleeding and pressure on her brain. These injuries ultimately proved fatal.

Sentencing is scheduled for July 15.