In Joliet, Illinois, a resident of Will County, John Shadbar, confessed on Wednesday to charges of attempted murder and a hate crime following a 2024 incident where he shot his neighbor.

The 72-year-old Shadbar targeted Melissa Robertson, his neighbor, in her backyard in Lockport during May 2024.

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According to prosecutors, Shadbar used racial slurs against Robertson, who has a Black partner and children, highlighting the racially motivated nature of the crime.

Authorities pointed to a prolonged history of hostility between the two neighbors, which culminated in this violent act.

Although Robertson survived the attack, she sustained serious injuries, having been shot in both her chest and hand.

“She was shot because her neighbor didn’t like the color of her kids. That’s just completely unreasonable in this day and age,” aunt Jeanne Beyer said.

Prosecutors dropped several other weapons and assault charges as part of a plea deal.

Shadbar was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

He previously pleaded not guilty.

In her victim impact statement, Robertson told the court Shadbar sentenced her to a life of nonstop pain as a result of the shooting.

She says she hopes he never sees another day of freedom; he could spend the rest of his life in prison.

Accompanied by family, including her two sons, Robertson left the courthouse in Joliet for what she hoped would be the last time.

“I wish it never happened. I’m glad it’s over now,” she said. “The worst time of my life.This has not been good.The hardest time ever: I’ll never be the same.”

Robertson says she and her two sons are getting therapy.

They are celebrating the end of the ordeal, but she says she feels for Shadbar, who sat alone with no family in court, looking old and feeble.

“It has destroyed everything. But, at the same time, I genuinely forgive the guy. It was one stupid mistake, and it landed him where he’s going,” Robertson said.

Robertson says she’s had countless surgeries and likely has more in her future.She is still unable to use her right hand.

“This is a lifelong injury.The quality of her life is never gonna be the same,” Beyer said.

Shadbar has been in custody, and will get credit for 631 days of time served.

The judge says he must serve 85% of the 20-year sentence.

The Will County state’s attorney declined to comment.

A GoFundMe for the Robertson family has raised over $15,000.