People v. Spataro

A jury in the Circuit Court of Will County found defendant guilty of murder. He was sentenced to 14 to 20 years in prison.

Shortly after midnight on July 8, 1976, defendant summoned police to the home of his girlfriend, Margaret Ward. Police found Miss Ward lying dead on the floor, shot once in the head. Defendant, who appeared to be distraught, initially told the officers, “She pulled the trigger, she pulled the trigger and I love her.” Later, defendant was taken to the police station where, after being advised of his Miranda rights, he was twice interviewed by investigating officers. Both…