Peoria Standard

A Peoria County judge has approved the transfer of a 15-year-old male to adult court in connection with a February shooting that injured a 9-year-old boy. The teenager, Javon L. Smith, will face charges of aggravated battery with a firearm as an adult. A detention hearing was held where the judge ordered Smith to remain at the Peoria County Juvenile Detention Center until his trial.

The incident occurred on February 2 at 8:30 p.m., when witnesses reported hearing noise outside their home. Upon investigation, they saw three individuals attempting to break into a vehicle. When confronted, the group fled, but one individual, identified as Smith, fired a gun towards the witness while running away. The bullet struck the child who was inside his home.

In deciding on the transfer to adult court, several factors were considered by the court including Smith's background, any prior rehabilitative services received, the severity and circumstances of the offense, and whether juvenile justice could adequately protect public safety.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Peoria Police Department at 309-673-4521.