Illinois Court Upheld Life Sentences for Two Murderers
The Third District Appellate Court affirmed the convictions of Dee Eastman and Phillip Horrell.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Violence
The Third District Appellate Court of Illinois has upheld the murder convictions of Dee Eastman and Phillip Horrell. This ruling ensures that both individuals will serve the remainder of their respective life sentences.
Why it matters
The decision provides legal finality for these serious crimes, ensuring that both offenders remain incarcerated for their actions. The state continues to enforce long-term sentences as a core component of the justice system in Illinois.
The Third District Appellate Court of Illinois confirmed the life sentences for Dee Eastman, convicted in 1990, and Phillip Horrell, who pleaded guilty to a 2013 murder. The Kankakee County State's Attorney office was notified of this ruling during the week of October 2, 2026.
The players
Dee Eastman
He is an offender who has been serving a life sentence since his 1990 murder conviction.
Phillip Horrell
He is an offender serving a life sentence for a 2013 murder and assault case.
Third District Appellate Court of Illinois
This is a state-level judicial body responsible for reviewing decisions made in lower circuit courts.
Doctor Jame Goldenstein
He was the victim of a 2013 stabbing murder committed by Phillip Horrell.
The details
Dee Eastman was originally sentenced to life in 1990 for murder and wounding Jeff Hackley and Larry Osenga in Kankakee. Phillip Horrell is serving a life sentence for the 2013 stabbing death of Doctor Jame Goldenstein and the wounding of Betty Goldenstein.
Timeline
Dee Eastman was convicted and sentenced to life in 1990.
Phillip Horrell committed murder and wounding in 2013.
The State's Attorney office received notice of the ruling during the week of October 2, 2026.
Legal Context
This ruling aligns with the standard application of the Illinois sentencing guidelines for first-degree murder in the state. By upholding these life sentences, the court reinforces the judicial precedent regarding the finality of convictions for violent crimes in Illinois.
The finalization of these sentences ensures that these individuals remain in custody, maintaining public safety for residents in Kankakee and throughout Illinois. There are no new security advisories issued for the public as a result of this judicial affirmation.
The takeaway
The appellate court has affirmed the state's decision to maintain life sentences for these two convicted offenders. This ruling serves to close the legal appeals process, confirming that both men will remain behind bars.
Further reading
For more information on legal proceedings, visit the Violence section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Your FAVorites from the 2000's to NOW!.
