Man Who Killed Fiancé of Patron at Casino in Illinois Sentenced to 100 Years in Prison

Article by : Erik Gibbs Aug 4, 2023

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In 2019, a gruesome incident involving Robert Watson unfolded at Harrah’s Hotel and Casino in Joliet, Illinois. In a callous act, he stabbed Emanuel Burgarino to death. Justice finally prevailed this year as a jury declared him guilty of committing first-degree murder on May 12, and he returned to a courtroom this week for sentencing. The verdict marked the end of a four-year wait for closure.

At the time of the attack, Burgarino stayed at the property with his fiancée, Denise Dixon. Meanwhile, Watson, homeless at the time, ventured aimlessly through the casino and hotel.
In an unfortunate twist of fate, both individuals boarded an elevator, ascending to the hotel’s fifth floor. Here, Watson, in a shocking turn of events, sprayed Mace in Burgarino’s face before fatally stabbing him without provocation and warning.

In the subsequent court proceedings, Watson maintained a composed demeanor while Anjeanetta Bolden, his mother, repeatedly tried to apologize for his actions. She begged Judge Dave Carlson to prioritize her 29-year-old son’s mental well-being, which had spiraled out of control in 2013.
Before the start of his trial, Watson expressed an interest in defending himself, a decision that would have potentially expedited the proceedings. He later decided otherwise and abandoned this plea but forced a delay in the trial.

Watson also caused other delays; his repeated absence from the courtroom during his trial was a noticeable occurrence. His explanation for these absences was that the food available to him in prison was toxic.

When Watson returned to court this past Monday for sentencing, he remained remarkably impassive on Monday as Carlson ultimately handed down the maximum punishment permissible by law. Watson will remain behind bars for 100 years.

During the sentencing hearing, Watson maintained his usual silence, offering minimal insight into his thoughts or feelings. Despite suffering from persistent mental health problems, Watson’s four-year-long struggle with the felony was finally ended with his conviction.
During Monday’s sentencing, Dixon highlighted Watson’s continued attempts to delay the trial. She said his behavior ultimately exacerbated the anguish and torment she and those close to her and Burgarino had experienced.

During the trial, Dixon disclosed to Watson that he and Burgarino’s lives were intertwined, as she and her fiancé were preparing for their wedding when the tragic murder occurred. Recounting the harrowing incident, Dixon expressed sadness, acknowledging that Dixon’s heinous act had shattered their dreams and robbed them of a future.
While nothing will change what happened, at least Watson won’t be on the streets where he could cause more harm.