Springfield, Illinois – A Springfield man has been convicted of Attempt First Degree Murder, Home Invasion, Aggravated Domestic Battery, and Aggravated Stalking after violently attacking his ex-girlfriend, following a period of stalking. Clarence Hopson’s trial revealed disturbing details of the crimes committed from October 15, 2022, through November 12, 2022.
Testimonies from the victim and evidence presented in court painted a chilling picture of the events leading up to the attack. Hopson reportedly stalked and surveilled his ex-girlfriend before breaking into her residence in the early morning hours of November 12, 2022. Armed with a box cutter, he inflicted severe injuries on the victim before fleeing the scene.
Fortunately, the victim was able to call 911, and law enforcement responded promptly to the incident. She was rushed to the hospital for treatment, while the weapon used in the attack was recovered and sent for testing. The results confirmed the presence of the victim’s blood on the blade and the defendant’s DNA on the handle of the box cutter.
Following the attack, Hopson evaded capture by fleeing to various locations before finally being apprehended in Colorado and extradited back to Illinois to face trial. The jury deliberated and found him guilty on all charges, which could result in a sentence ranging from 14 to 95 years in prison.
Hopson’s sentencing is scheduled for October 3, where he will learn the consequences of his heinous actions. The case serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their crimes.