SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS) — Mark Crites, a Springfield resident, was sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to the murders of John and Gloria Norgaard. The couple was found shot to death in their home in September 2022. Crites was arrested the following day, found in the Norgaards’ car, and charged with their murders.
In court, Crites offered a brief apology for his actions, saying, “I’m very sorry.” Judge Madonia accepted the apology, acknowledging, “The court has accepted your apology and accepted your responsibility and your plea here today.”
Judge Madonia clarified the consequences of Crites waiving his right to a trial, stating, “By waiving your right to a trial, Mr. Crites, you will be convicted of two counts of first-degree murder, which mandates a life sentence in a penitentiary. Do you understand that?” Crites responded affirmatively, “Yes, your honor.”
Crites underwent three evaluations, with the final one concluding that he was guilty but mentally ill at the time of the murders. He pleaded guilty only to the murder charges, and other charges, including aggravated arson, possession of a stolen vehicle, and aggravated battery of a peace officer, were dismissed.
Judge Madonia remarked, “There’s been enough suffering on your behalf, and today concludes a large amount of this suffering and will continue into the future, but there is some closure here today.”
