The Kewanee man charged with the murder of Jimmy Hollins Jr. on March 24, 2024, chose to hold a Preliminary Hearing on Monday, April 8th. There were no known witnesses to the shooting, but the Kewanee Police Department gathered enough evidence for the Henry County State’s Attorney’s Office to file first-degree murder charges against 43-year-old Jose Valentin, such as a gun, security footage, messages, and witness interviews. Defense Attorney Ruud argued that his client acted in self-defense during an alleged altercation between himself and Jimmy Hollins Jr.
Despite arguing self-defense, Judge Colby Hathaway found probable cause on the two counts of first-degree murder, and a jury pre-trial is scheduled for May 16, 2024, at 3 PM. Judge Hathaway said the State has met its burden in its petition for pretrial detention because the defendant presents a real and present threat to the community. The defendant also left the area following the shooting and was arrested by North Riverside Police on an arrest warrant for murder. Jose Valentin will remain in the custody of the Henry County Jail until trial. Jose Valentin is charged with Murder/Intent to Kill/Injure (Class M Felony) and Murder/Strong Prob Kill/Injure (Class M Felony).
According to his obituary, “Jimmy has worked as a Laborer at Tyson’s and Great Dane. He excelled at all sports. He most of all, loved basketball, soccer, football and of course bowling at state. Jimmy’s interest and love of course, didn’t stop there; Michael Jordan, Lebron James were his sports idols growing up, his favorite past time was fixing up his truck and driving around, his favorite food was tater tot casserole, and he enjoyed music, comedy shows, gaming with his friends, spending time with his animals and loved ones. His heart was more than any interest or talent he had. Jimmy’s giving, warm and loving soul will forever radiate utmost of all.”
The Kewanee Police responded to a male on the road bleeding from the neck in the 100 block of Houle Avenue. Officers immediately identified the victim as Jimmy Hollins Jr. and immediately began life-saving measures until paramedics arrived on the scene. Despite attempting to save his life, Jimmy Hollins Jr. died at the scene.
