© 2026 NPR Illinois
For your right to be curious.
Donate
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Build a transformational philanthropy program for this trusted NPR affiliate.
Seeking a 100% major gift fundraiser passionate about public media to develop relationships with people who support an informed and civil central Illinois.
Hire will have community visibility, many prospects, and professional resources.
Interviews in progress, open until filled. Apply now.

Are you availabile to be a local fill-in anchor on Morning Edition and/or All Things Considered?
Must be available with notice either weekdays from 5:30 to 9 a.m. and/or 3:30 to 6 p.m.
Apply by June 5, 5 p.m.

Christopher Harris Sentenced To Life In Prison

NPR Illinois | 91.9 UIS | By Associated Press
Published July 19, 2013 at 9:58 AM CDT

An Illinois man convicted of fatally beating five members of his ex-wife's family in 2009 has been sentenced to life in prison.  
 A judge sentenced Christopher Harris to five consecutive life sentences on Friday.  
 The 34-year-old Harris faced a mandatory life sentence after he was convicted in May on five counts of first-degree murder, home invasion and other charges.  
 Harris admitted killing 14-year-old Dillen Constant on Sept. 21, 2009. Harris claimed he killed the teen in self-defense after discovering him slaughtering his own family at their home in Beason, about 40 miles northeast of Springfield.  
 Harris' own brother testified against him, describing the sickening sound as Harris pummeled his former mother-in-law and her family with a tire iron.
Illinois