Wayne County Circuit Court Judge, Matt Vaughn presided over several felony cases on Thursday, issuing sentences for three area residents who entered guilty pleas as part of negotiated agreements.
James Chambers, 41, of Fairfield, pleaded guilty to Unlawful Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, a Class 3 felony. Chambers was sentenced to three years in the Illinois Department of Corrections and given credit for 48 days already served in the Wayne County Jail. He was also ordered to pay court costs. As part of the plea agreement, one additional case against him was dismissed.
Nicole Parker, 37, also of Fairfield, pleaded guilty to Child Abandonment, a Class 4 felony. Parker received a sentence of two years of probation and was ordered to pay court costs. She must also complete parenting classes, pay $200 in restitution to victims, and undergo an alcohol and drug assessment through a court-approved agency. Two additional cases against Parker were dismissed under the terms of the plea deal.
Austin Hawley, 29, of Iuka, pleaded guilty to Burglary, a Class 2 felony, in connection with an offense dating back to December 2021. Hawley was sentenced to four years in the Illinois Department of Corrections, with credit for 35 days served in the Wayne County Jail. He was also ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution to the victim and court costs. Two additional counts were dismissed as part of the negotiated plea.