Jacquon L Timothy: Illinois man accused of shooting ex-girlfriend to ‘prove loyalty’ to new partner

In an alleged attempt to prove his devotion to his new partner, an Illinois man is accused of shooting his ex-girlfriend’s feet, a bizarre act that prosecutors say was motivated by a misguided show of loyalty.

Jacquon L Timothy, 23, has been charged with aggravated battery with a firearm in connection with the July 19 incident in Peoria. The charges were laid two months later, following what authorities described as a “disturbing” investigation into the violent episode.

According to police, the shooting unfolded just after 1.30am, and a call was made asking officers to urgently attend the scene, People reported.

Officers responding to reports of gunfire discovered a woman at the scene with injuries to both feet caused by a gunshot wound. She was rushed to the hospital for treatment, though her current condition has not been publicly updated.

Investigators say the case took an unusual turn when Timothy’s current girlfriend disclosed that he had confided in her ahead of the attack. She claimed he allegedly explained what he was about to do before carrying it out.

Police allege the entire motive behind the shooting was to prove his love to his new partner. “To prove his love to his new girlfriend,” prosecutors said, was the chilling reason Timothy offered.

The girlfriend told officers that, following the gunfire, Timothy returned to her and admitted what had happened. She said he allegedly told her he had “carried it out.”

A search warrant later executed on Timothy’s phone reportedly uncovered incriminating evidence.

According to the state’s attorney’s office, he sent a text message allegedly “claiming ownership of the shooting.” This digital trail, investigators argue, underlined his involvement in the incident.

It remains unclear if Timothy has entered a plea or secured legal representation to act on his behalf. Authorities confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with more evidence expected to be presented in court.

If convicted of the new charges, the 23-year-old could face up to 30 years in prison.

Local residents have expressed shock at the circumstances, with one police official describing the act as “both reckless and senseless.”

For now, the focus remains on the victim’s recovery, though details about her current state have not been disclosed. “There has been no further updates on the victim’s condition and it is not clear how she is holding up,” authorities said.

The Peoria Police Department urged anyone with additional information about the case to come forward as prosecutors prepare to pursue the charges in court.