State of IL v Robert Arnette [UPDATE: SENTENCED TO 65 YEARS]

[Pauli]

http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=v31urn&s=2
http://www.news-gazette.com/news/lo..._facing_charges (http://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2007/10/07/husband_facing_charges)
http://www.wandtv.com/Global/catego...3&nav=menu589_1 (http://www.wandtv.com/Global/category.asp?C=99883&nav=menu589_1)
http://wandtv.com/Global/category.a...6&nav=menu589_2 (http://wandtv.com/Global/category.asp?C=99886&nav=menu589_2)
http://www.wandtv.com/global/story.asp?s=7190428
http://www.news-gazette.com/news/lo...lp_womans_seven (http://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2007/10/09/benefit_set_to_help_womans_seven)
www.wandtv.com (http://www.wandtv.com/)
http://www.news-gazette.com/news/lo...igned_in_murder (http://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2007/10/10/estranged_husband_arraigned_in_murder)
http://www.news-gazette.com/news/lo..._troubled_youth (http://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2007/10/10/family_recalls_suspects_troubled_youth)

More on this case can be read at
http://naomiarnette.com

[Pauli]

http://i22.tinypic.com/v31urn.jpg
Robert Arnette
Husband's statements didn't match witness accounts

By Meg Thilmony

Sunday, October 7, 2007 9:26 AM CDT





By Meg Thilmony

Sunday, October 7, 2007 9:26 AM CDT




URBANA – Inconsistent statements that Robert Arnette gave to police investigating the death of his wife, Naomi Arnette, have led to his arrest for her murder.
Champaign County Sheriff Dan Walsh said Arnette, 38, was arrested at about 12:15 a.m. Saturday at his residence at 4 Aztec Place, C, on charges of first-degree murder of Naomi Arnette and the concealment of her death.

Formal charges are expected to be filed Tuesday.
The remains of Mrs. Arnette, a mother of seven, were found Sept. 29 in a shallow grave about 3 miles south of Sadorus. She had been missing since May 21.
Champaign County State's Attorney Julia Rietz said Saturday that sheriff's investigators interviewed Arnette several times in the wake of his wife's disappearance.
"He had given statements previously as to his whereabouts and contacts with her on the day she disappeared. Those statements were inconsistent with statements of other witnesses who had seen her that day," she said. "Since the discovery of her remains, the investigation focused on statements he made as recently as Friday to a woman with whom he had become acquainted after the disappearance of his wife. That woman has been cooperating with investigators and through her, investigators learned of his story of finding his wife dead in the basement.

"He claimed that she had hung herself and that to spare the children, he removed her body and disposed of it in rural Sadorus," Rietz said. "That version is not consistent with the physical evidence, the way the body was found.
"There was no obvious cause" of death, Rietz said, adding the remains are still being studied.
After hearing the facts of the case laid out by Assistant State's Attorney Steve Ziegler on Saturday morning, Judge Richard Klaus set Arnette's bond at$5 million. He remained in the satellite jail Saturday night. He would have to post $500,000 cash to be released.
Rietz said she expected to reveal more details after Arnette's arraignment Tuesday.
Walsh said his investigators have been working on the case since Mrs. Arnette was reported missing in May.
"This past week, we developed information from the scene found at Sadorus and also some totally independent information," Walsh said, adding he didn't think there would be other arrests. "We're obviously very satisfied that we've brought it to at least a temporary conclusion at this point."
Champaign County court records show in February, Arnette was sentenced to 30 months of probation for aggravated criminal sexual abuse after pleading guilty to sexually molesting a girl under the age of 13 in 2005.
When he came to the courthouse Thursday to visit his probation officer, Rietz said, sheriff's investigators had a search warrant for Arnette's truck, which they seized.
Robert Arnette's sister, Angela Roy, who's been caring for the Arnette children since before Mrs. Arnette's disappearance, declined to comment.
Charles Lechel, Mrs. Arnette's brother, said he's glad an arrest has been made, but it doesn't answer all his questions about his sister's death, including why she was buried in the woods.
Lechel said he has some anger about the situation.
"But anger's not going to bring her back and it's not going to solve anything," he said.



source http://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2007/10/07/husband_facing_charges

[Pauli]

Count Description
01 MURDER/INTENT TO KILL/INJURE
02 CONCEAL HOMICIDAL DEATH
DOCKET INFORMATION as of 10/9/2007 10:01:34 PM

10-09-07 RE: ARNETTE ROBERT SHAUN
People appear by STEVE ZIEGLER. Defendant appears and is arraigned.
PUBLIC DEFENDER is appointed and RANDY ROSENBAUM appears instanter.
Cause set for Preliminary Hearing on 10/23/2007 at 3:15 PM in Courtroom F. See Expanded Record.
Cause is allotted for Pre-Trial on 11/6/2007 at 9:00 AM in Courtroom *.
Defendant's Bond of $5,000,000 to continue.
Defendant admonished as to the possibility of EXTENDED TERM SENTENCING.
Defendant advised as to the possibility of Consecutive Term Sentencing.
DEFENDANT IS ADMONISHED AS TO TRIAL AND SENTENCING IN ABSENTIA.

http://www.cccircuitclerk.com/

[4thekids]

Count Description
01 MURDER/INTENT TO KILL/INJURE
02 CONCEAL HOMICIDAL DEATH
DOCKET INFORMATION as of 10/9/2007 10:01:34 PM

10-09-07 RE: ARNETTE ROBERT SHAUN
People appear by STEVE ZIEGLER. Defendant appears and is arraigned.
PUBLIC DEFENDER is appointed and RANDY ROSENBAUM appears instanter.
Cause set for Preliminary Hearing on 10/23/2007 at 3:15 PM in Courtroom F. See Expanded Record.
Cause is allotted for Pre-Trial on 11/6/2007 at 9:00 AM in Courtroom *.
Defendant's Bond of $5,000,000 to continue.
Defendant admonished as to the possibility of EXTENDED TERM SENTENCING.
Defendant advised as to the possibility of Consecutive Term Sentencing.
DEFENDANT IS ADMONISHED AS TO TRIAL AND SENTENCING IN ABSENTIA.

http://www.cccircuitclerk.com/

Just wanted to add:

Cause is allotted for Pre-Trial on 11/6/2007 at 9:00 AM in Courtroom B.

When I posted this on ctv they wouldn't allow the letter B. Kind of weird.

Thank you Harlett for moving it here. :love0085:

[4thekids]

Robert Arnette entered a NG plea:

http://illinoishomepage.net/content/fulltext/?cid=9265

Robert Arnette Preliminary Hearing

Reported by: Jenny Gastwirth WCIA 3

Tuesday, Oct 23, 2007 @06:32pm CST

Arnette's family continues to struggle with news their brother may have killed his estranged wife. His sister, Angela Roy, says she hates her brother for what he's put their family through. Robert Arnette appeared in court Tuesday on video denying both killing his wife and hiding her body. Naomi's remains were found in a shallow grave just south of Sadorus about three weeks ago. Since then, Arnette hasn't been able to keep his story straight. In an email Robert Arnette's sister sent to a friend and shared with WCIA, she said, "Robert lied to us all for months." She went on to say, "The pain he has caused me and his children is unbearable...yet on the other hand, he is my baby brother and all I see now is that little boy holding his pet rock and it hurts so badly to see what he has become." Arnette will be back in court next month. His bond remains set at 5 million dollars.

[Pauli]

Estranged husband enters plea in murder of Sadorus woman

Oct 23, 2007 04:25 PM CDT

The man accused of killing a 36-year-old mother of seven entered a plea in Champaign County Court Tuesday.
Robert Arnette entered a plea of not guilty at the courthouse. He did not appear in person but instead by video phone from the county jail.
Arnette was wearing a green mental health suit usually worn by inmates who may be a threat to themselves. Arnette was rather stone-faced during his hearing, not showing much emotion while his public defender entered his plea.
The grand jury returned indictments on both charges of first degree murder and concealing a homicide.
Arnette is accused of murdering his estranged wife, Naomi Arnette, back in May.
Search teams found Naomi's remains buried in a shallow grave last month just south of her home in Sadorus. Robert Arnette was arrested in connection with her murder shortly after.
He told authorities he found Naomi already dead from a suicide in her home ad moved her to the wooded area. But the state's attorney says the evidence just doesn't support that story.
Arnette will appear in court for his first pre-trial hearing next month.

http://www.wandtv.com/Global/story....4&nav=menu589_2 (http://www.wandtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7254674&nav=menu589_2)

[Battnt]

I was really hoping he would plead guilty for Angela and the children's sake....Maybe he still will....I pray he does....:(

[Pauli]

that makes two of us batty:(

[4thekids]

I was really hoping he would plead guilty for Angela and the children's sake....Maybe he still will....I pray he does....:(

The sad thing batty is people such as RA only care about themselves. There's always an excuse...someone else's fault, etc.

I don't feel for one second Robert will come clean without a huge fight. At first I was floored he didn't spare his family from this. After thinking about it I realized it's the nature of child abusers to put the blame where it doesn't lie. Same as murderers.

God I wish it were that simple...that he'd plead guilty, think of his children, his sister. There's still time but somehow I feel Robert will fight this til the end.

For the heavensent 7 and Angelal's family. Be strong....God loves you. :1222423:

Naomi justice is coming. :1222423:

[Pauli]

Judge orders Arnette to undergo mental health evaluation

A Champaign man accused of killing his wife was in court today via video phone.

It was Robert Arnette's first court hearing since he pled not guilty to first degree murder and concealing a homicide.

Today, a judge signed an order for Arnette to undergo a mental health evaluation.

Search teams discovered his wife, Naomi Arnette's remains buried in a shallow grave in September. Robert Arnette was arrested in connection with her murder shortly after.

The State's Attorney's Office is challenging his story that he found Naomi already dead from a suicide in her home and moved her to a wooded area.
Arnette will head back to court January 22nd.


http://wandtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7319962&nav=menu589_2

[Pauli]

Arnette makes court appearance
Posted: Nov 14, 2007 11:29 AM



A Champaign County man accused of killing his estranged wife appeared in court Wednesday.

At a pre-trial hearing this morning for Robert Arnette, a judge read off the subpoenas in the case.

Arnette's defense says they are still waiting on one subpoena. All are at the request of the Champaign County Sheriff's Department.

Robert Arnette is charged with first degree murder and concealing a homicide in connection with the death of Naomi Arnette.

He pleaded not guilty and will appear in court again in January.


http://www.wandtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=7359364

[Justme38]

I live in Illinois, about a 2 hour drive from Champaign, and they said on our Local news one night, that he is fighting Angela getting custody from behind bars. It has been delayed until next month. Now don't shoot the messenger, I was just repeating what was on our local news broadcast. If anything else is said about it, I will post it.:)

[CR_in_IL]

I live in Illinois, about a 2 hour drive from Champaign, and they said on our Local news one night, that he is fighting Angela getting custody from behind bars. It has been delayed until next month. Now don't shoot the messenger, I was just repeating what was on our local news broadcast. If anything else is said about it, I will post it.:)

Good heavens. How ridiculous is this man.......

[ferretplay]

Good heavens. How ridiculous is this man.......

http://www.answers.com/topic/psychopath?cat=health

psychopath
A person with an antisocial personality disorder,
manifested in aggressive, perverted, criminal, or
amoral behavior without empathy or remorse.

I asked myself how a person could murder the mother of his children,how could a person come on a message board declaring his innocence while all the time knowing he murdered her, then the stories he told finding her, fighting his very own loving sister about the kid's custody, does it ever end & is there understanding it ? I say no, because he is a psychopath.:duh:
Lock him up & throw away the keys.
For Robert:71541::71541::71541::71541::71541:

[Pauli]

Robert Arnette was due back in court today, I have not been able to find any information on it at all... Maybe if someone from that area, that posts here, could take a look in their papers or on the news for something about it, it would be greatly appreciated.

[Battnt]

Hey everyone...I am doing the best I can looking for links to this case....Alot of them are no longer available....I wanted to put a little history here due to lack of links....

From the time Naomi was reported missing, and even after she was found Robert maintained he knew nothing about it...He was not involved in any of the searches, and in fact did very little to help find Naomi...He even went so far as to say she was last seen with him at his residence...We now know this was not true...He was at her residence, which is where she disappeared from....Harlett, Grande and I were all around from the beginning of this case...So if anyone has any questions, we would be more than happy to answer them the best we can...

:happy0207:

[Battnt]

ARNETTE TRIAL CONTINUED

The trial for the Champaign county man accused of killing his estranged wife is continued.

Robert Arnette is charged with one-count of first degree murder and one-count of trying to conceal a death.

He's pleaded not guilty on both counts.

Robert Arnette's estranged wife, Naomi, went missing last spring.

Her remains were found in a shallow grave, just south of Sadorus in September.

Robert Arnette is due back in court February 19th.



http://www.wicd15.com/news/news.shtml#news3

[PinkPony]

Court still waiting on forensic reports in Arnette case.

www.wandtv.com/Global?story.asp?S=7756816&nav=menu589_2 (includes video)

[Battnt]

Oh thank you PP!..:)...I have been looking for links all over...Much appreciated...:happy0207:

[PinkPony]

Oh thank you PP!..:)...I have been looking for links all over...Much appreciated...:happy0207:

You are so very welcome.:) I will help you supply links.

Things have quieted down here so I should be able to spend more time on the puter.:happy0207:

PP

[2Hope4]

Thanks for having this forum here!!! I was just thinking of her today, and wondering if the trial ever came. Will be awaiting the Feb trial, and hope and pray that justice is given.

[packy]

I watch WAND News every morning and haven't heard any updates lately. Just did a site search on WAND and it came up zero which is not right because I read an old one. confusing.

Did InSession delete the case? I got invalid threads over there.

[4ManyToFew]

03-11-08 TJD/SEC
TJD/SEC RE: ARNETTE ROBERT SHAUN
TJD/SEC Motion for Supplemental Discovery (Compel the
TJD/SEC Taking of Bucal Swabs from the Defendant). Motion
TJD/SEC allowed. Order to Compel the Taking of Bucal Swabs
TJD/SEC entered. SEE ORDER.
03-19-08 CRIMINL/CS MOTION TO CHANGE THE PLACE OF TRIAL FILED THIS
CRIMINL/CS DATE.
03-20-08 TJD/KLH/TC People appear by D. Harris. Deft appears in
TJD/KLH/TC custody and with E. Monroe. Cause called for
TJD/KLH/TC STATUS hearing. Cause is continued for return
TJD/KLH/TC of Subpoena Duces Tecum to 04/04/08 at
TJD/KLH/TC 9:00AM in Courtroom B.
03-26-08 CRIMINL/JU SUPPLEMENTAL DISCOVERY FILED 3/25/08.

[Grande]

Judge denies Arnette's request for change of venue
By Mary Schenk
Wednesday, May 7, 2008 10:33 AM CDT

URBANA – The murder trial of a Champaign man accused of killing his estranged wife will remain in Champaign County.

Judge Tom Difanis this morning denied Robert Arnette's request to have his trial, alleging he killed Naomi Arnette and concealed her death for months, heard in another county.

The 37-year-old Sadorus woman was reported missing May 21, 2007, from the home she shared with her seven children, two of whom were fathered by Arnette, 38. Her remains were found Sept. 30 in a shallow grave south of Sadorus.

Difanis said that by the time the case is tried in August, it will have faded from the community's consciousness. He added that if problems arise during jury selection, he would reconsider the request.

http://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2008/05/07/judge_denies_arnettes_request_for_change_of_venue

[Grande]

Order of protection sought against Arnette children's aunt
By Mary Schenk
Thursday, May 8, 2008 2:31 PM CDT

URBANA – As Champaign County Judge Tom Difanis was ruling on whether to move the murder trial of Robert Arnette, the lawyer representing the seven surviving children of Naomi Arnette was in another courtroom down the hall trying to protect their interests.

John DeLaMar, the guardian ad litem for the children, who now range in age from 8 to 18, asked Judge Holly Clemons to issue an order of protection on behalf of the children against Angela Roy, the sister of Robert Arnette.

The children had lived with Roy both before and after their mother's disappearance due to an ongoing abuse and neglect case stemming from Robert Arnette sexually molesting a child in 2005.

Robert Arnette is the father of two of Naomi Arnette's children.

Another man fathered the other five children.

Both men had their parental rights terminated in late January 2008.

In his request for the order of protection, DeLaMar, a former Champaign County judge, alleged that the relationship between Roy and the children had seriously deteriorated. The Department of Children and Family Services removed the children from her home and placed them with other foster families in Sadorus and Tolono in January.

DeLaMar said in his request that Roy had refused to return various items of personal property to the children after they moved out and conducted herself "in an inappropriate manner toward (them) including the use of inappropriate, demeaning language and the discussion of inappropriate topics and invasions of privacy."

In support of the request, four of Mrs. Arnette's daughters testified Wednesday that they agreed that an order of protection entered against Roy on their behalf would be a good idea.

Roy, who is represented by Urbana attorney Mike McClellan, answered DeLaMar's questions about how money and gift cards donated for the children were spent.

Roy testified that she opened an account for the children at Busey Bank to which people made donations after Mrs. Arnette's disappearance. She said some of the money was used for her and five of the children to take a trip to Alabama in November, some was used to make mortgage and utility payments on Mrs. Arnette's home in Sadorus, and some was used to buy clothing for the children.

Clemons heard testimony for about three hours before continuing the hearing to later this month for further testimony.

Bid to move trial denied

Judge Difanis told lawyers involved in the case of Robert Arnette on Wednesday that if they have trouble picking an impartial jury, he'll reconsider moving the trial out of county.

But for now, Difanis has denied a request by Assistant Public Defender Emily Monroe that the 38-year-old man's murder trial be moved.

Arnette is charged with committing the acts that led to the death of Naomi Arnette, 37, of Sadorus. She was reported missing on May 21, 2007. Despite repeated searches, it wasn't until Sept. 30, 2007, that her remains were found in a shallow grave south of Sadorus.

A week later, Arnette, who listed an address on Aztec Place in Champaign, was arrested and charged with first- degree murder and concealment of a homicidal death. The murder charge does not specify how he is alleged to have killed Mrs. Arnette.

In her affidavit in support of the motion to change the place of trial, Monroe said the publicity surrounding the missing woman and Arnette's arrest was so extensive that he could not receive a fair trial in Urbana.

Assistant State's Attorney Duke Harris said by the time the case gets tried, the publicity will be more than a year old.

"Just because a juror has heard about a case doesn't mean he can't decide it based on the evidence heard in court and the instructions of law," Difanis said.

But he said if it becomes apparent during jury selection that potential jurors can't be fair, he'll consider moving the case to another county.

Harris said there is DNA evidence at the state crime lab that has to be analyzed and a large number of witnesses and physical exhibits to prepare.

Difanis set the case for trial on Aug. 18.

http://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2008/05/08/order_of_protection_sought_against_arnette_childre ns_aunt

[PinkPony]

Order of protection sought against Arnette children's aunt
By Mary Schenk
Thursday, May 8, 2008 2:31 PM CDT

URBANA – As Champaign County Judge Tom Difanis was ruling on whether to move the murder trial of Robert Arnette, the lawyer representing the seven surviving children of Naomi Arnette was in another courtroom down the hall trying to protect their interests.

snipped


Thanks for posting this Grande.:howdy:

I hope to be at the trial if there are no more delays.

PP

[Pauli]

Arnette cause of death undetermined

By Steve Bauer (http://www.news-gazette.com/news/reporter/sbauer/)

Thursday, May 15, 2008 11:19 AM CDT

URBANA – Nearly a year after a Sadorus woman was first reported missing, a Champaign County coroner's jury ruled the manner of her death to be undetermined.

The ruling came this morning at a coroner's inquest in the death of Naomi Arnette, 37.

Her estranged husband, 38-year-old Robert Arnette, who eventually was arrested, told authorities he saw Mrs. Arnette the morning of May 21, 2007, at her home on South Second Street in Sadorus.

After repeated searches of the area, her remains were found in a shallow grave south of Sadorus on Sept. 30, 2007. Dental records and other evidence confirmed that the body was that of Mrs. Arnette, according to Champaign County Coroner Duane Northrup.

Robert Arnette, who had been living in Champaign, was arrested Oct. 6, 2007, for her murder and concealment of a homicidal death. His trial is set to begin Aug. 18. Champaign County Judge Thomas Difanis on May 7 denied a motion by Robert Arnette's attorney to have the trial moved due to pretrial publicity. The judge said he would reconsider that decision if attorneys have trouble selecting a jury.

http://www.news-gazette.com/news/2008/05/15/arnette_cause_of_death_undetermined

[Pauli]

Arnette's cause of death still undecided

By Steve Bauer (http://www.news-gazette.com/news/reporter/sbauer/)

Friday May 16, 2008


URBANA – Questions remain surrounding the death of Naomi Arnette, nearly a year after the Sadorus woman was first reported missing.

At a coroner's inquest Thursday morning in Urbana, a coroner's jury ruled the cause of her death to be undetermined.

Deputy Coroner Steven Skinner said Mrs. Arnette, 37, was pronounced dead at 1:35 p.m. Sept. 30 at the site where her body was discovered. Results from an autopsy showed only that the cause of death was due to "undetermined means."

Skinner said the remains were mostly bones, but dental records from Mrs. Arnette matched the teeth found, and that a forensic anthropologist with the Illinois State Police indicated the bones were consistent with Mrs. Arnette's size.

"All the evidence we have matches up that this was Naomi Arnette," Skinner said.

Tonya Prince of Urbana, a sister of Mrs. Arnette, said after the inquest that she wished the jury had found the death to be a homicide.

"I guess they tried their best," she said. "We would like to put it to rest."
The sister said tearfully that Mrs. Arnette is missed and was a good worker.
"She worked pretty hard at her job," she said. "She never missed a day."
Prince's husband, James, said while the coroner's jury did not have much evidence, family members feel it is a murder and they want the person responsible in prison.

Champaign County Coroner Duane Northrup said after the inquest he thinks the jury's ruling indicates "not enough evidence was presented that the cause of death was intentional," which would be required for a ruling of a homicide.

Champaign County sheriff's Investigator Shane Cook testified in the inquest that Mrs. Arnette was last seen on April 21, 2007. He said her estranged husband, 38-year-old Robert Arnette, was arrested Oct. 6, 2007, on charges of murder and concealment of a homicidal death.

Cook said her remains were found, after repeated searches, on Sept. 30 in a shallow grave roughly 4 miles south of Sadorus.

Some bones had been discovered scattered along a ridge near County Road 575 E a half-mile north of County Road 100 N, Cook said. The grave was 18 inches wide by 30 inches long and only 19 inches deep, he said.

Cook said investigators received some information after Mrs. Arnette was reported missing May 21 and additional information led to her husband's arrest. He said the case was still open and would make no other comments.

The trial for Robert Arnette is set to begin Aug. 18. Champaign County Judge Thomas Difanis on May 7 denied a motion by Robert Arnette's attorney to have it moved because of pretrial publicity. The judge said he would reconsider that decision if attorneys have trouble selecting a jury.
:
http://www.news-gazette.com/news/2008/05/16/arnettes_cause_of_death_still_undecided

[w1df10wr]

Thank you for all of the updates on this case.

[JaneInCT]

As a former classmate of Naomi's (Champaign Central High School, Class of 1989), I have been keeping track as best I can from Connecticut.

Thank you very much for the updates. I have August 18 marked on my calendar. May she receive the justice she so rightly deserves...and may Robert burn for what he did to her.

[Roamer]

Welcome, Jane.

[PinkPony]

As a former classmate of Naomi's (Champaign Central High School, Class of 1989), I have been keeping track as best I can from Connecticut.

Thank you very much for the updates. I have August 18 marked on my calendar. May she receive the justice she so rightly deserves...and may Robert burn for what he did to her.


I would like to welcome you as well, Jane.

I follow this closely as Naomi truly captured my heart.
I was able to help in the search for Naomi and met her beautiful children at her Memorial Service.

I believe with all my heart that justice will be served and Robert will rue the day he was born.




PP

[packy]

Welcome, Jane.

I'm wondering if it wouldn't be best to change the venue, so they can't bring that up later in an appeal.

[PinkPony]

Welcome, Jane.

I'm wondering if it wouldn't be best to change the venue, so they can't bring that up later in an appeal.

You are right, packy.
I'll keep myself in check but sometimes it's hard to do.

PP

[Pauli]

Doctor: Suspect is fit for trial in slaying of Naomi Arnette

By Mary Schenk (http://helpfindthemissing.org/news/reporter/mschenk/)

Saturday, August 2, 2008 8:30 AM CDT


URBANA – A former Champaign man accused of murdering his estranged wife and hiding her body is set to stand trial Aug. 18.

Lawyers in Robert Arnette's case Friday accepted the findings of Champaign psychiatrist Lawrence Jeckel that Arnette is fit to stand trial for the murder of Naomi Arnette, who was 36 at the time she went missing.

Her remains were found in a shallow grave in rural Sadorus on Sept. 30, 2007. She had been reported missing May 21, 2007.

Robert Arnette was charged in October with first-degree murder and concealment of a homicidal death. Authorities have never spelled out how they think Mrs. Arnette was killed.

Arnette's attorney, Assistant Public Defender Emily Monroe, asked in mid-July that Arnette be examined for his fitness to stand trial.

Judge Tom Difanis approved the request.

Arnette is being prosecuted by Assistant State's Attorney Duke Harris

http://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2008/08/02/doctor_suspect_is_fit_for_trial_in_slaying_of_naom i_arnette

[grammybears]

Well this is good news. Maybe now with the trial coming up Arnette will get found guilty and Naomi, her children and family along with Angela and her family will be able to find some kind of closure in this horrible mess. Even though the kids are no longer with Angela I know she loved them dearly and they all deserve better then what has happened in their life.

[PinkPony]

Thanks for posting this Pauli,

I will be attending some of the trial. Don't know that I will be able to be there every day. Will see how things go.

I have been in touch with Angela and she is doing fairly well considering the circumstances.

PP

[grammybears]

Thanks for posting this Pauli,

I will be attending some of the trial. Don't know that I will be able to be there every day. Will see how things go.

I have been in touch with Angela and she is doing fairly well considering the circumstances.

PP

Hi Pink Pony, This has been a long time in coming. I wish I could go to the trial but living in Utah makes it hard for me to go to some of these trials.
All I can say about Arnette is he will have his day in court and then he can pay for what he did to Naomi Angela and the children.

We all know the stories he told over at that other site and I really thought it was fishy that he was on the computer when he should have been looking for Naomi or helping Angela with these children. It amazes me how someone could be so selfish to take away these kids mother in such a brutal way.
I will be looking for reports from you on the days you can go.

[PinkPony]

Hi Pink Pony, This has been a long time in coming. I wish I could go to the trial but living in Utah makes it hard for me to go to some of these trials.
All I can say about Arnette is he will have his day in court and then he can pay for what he did to Naomi Angela and the children.

We all know the stories he told over at that other site and I really thought it was fishy that he was on the computer when he should have been looking for Naomi or helping Angela with these children. It amazes me how someone could be so selfish to take away these kids mother in such a brutal way.
I will be looking for reports from you on the days you can go.


Hi grammybears:happy0207:

Yes, it has been a long time coming and alot of us feel the same as you.

I most definitely will be coming here and letting everyone know what happens in court.

Take care my friend

PP

[ANGROY]

Thank you for your kind words ...next week will be a very hard one for alot of us.
Love Angela

[ANGROY]

Well this is good news. Maybe now with the trial coming up Arnette will get found guilty and Naomi, her children and family along with Angela and her family will be able to find some kind of closure in this horrible mess. Even though the kids are no longer with Angela I know she loved them dearly and they all deserve better then what has happened in their life.

Thank you for your kind words ...next week will be a very hard one for alot of us.
Love Angela


Let me clarify..my mind is all over the place...the week of the 18th not next week...

[Pauli]

I know that is going to be rough on you Angela :love0085:

[grammybears]

Hi Angela, I have been thinking a lot about you lately. I am sure this is not going to be easy. Just know we are all here for you.

gammybears

[Battnt]

God bless you Angela...:love0085:

[texasgal]

Thinkin' about you and praying for you and your family .. deb

[ANGROY]

Thank you all so very much! If it had not been for the support many of you have giving me we may not of ever found Naomi....

God Bless...
Angela

[Pauli]

Naomi touched a lot of us.. Grande and I met during the time she was missing. Naomi was one of the reasons this site was started....

For Naomi :1222423:


and for you Angela :1222423:

[Grande]

I look forward to justice being served for everyone involved. My heart aches for Naomi's children, knowing what they have been through. God bless Angela for doing the unthinkable and taking on those children in a time of crisis for her and her family. To Naomi's family and friends, I hope justice brings you closure and puts your mind's at ease. Naomi has left a lasting impression on MANY, including myself.

[PinkPony]

Robert's trial starts today.

Let's all say a prayer for all involved.

I will be there starting tomorrow as today will be jury selection. I'm not sure how many days I will be there as I am going to play it by ear.

Will let everyone know how things go.

PP

[packy]

Sure will say a prayer, Pink Pony.

[PinkPony]

Sure will say a prayer, Pink Pony.


TYVM packy,

Plans have changed a bit. I won't be going up until tomorrow eve. as jury selection probably will take 2 days.

But I will keep everyone up to date asap.

PP

[PinkPony]

Jury selection for Arnette murder trial begins this afternoon

www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2008/08/18/jury_selection_for_Arnette_murder_trial-begins


There are a couple of mistakes in this article.............

The children were living with Angela when Naomi went missing and

The case to terminate Robert's parental rights is on appeal, so he retains his rights at this time.

PP

[grammybears]

My thoughts have been with Angela and all family members today as the jury selection is taking place. I pray they feel the protection of the Lord as they go through this difficult time. I just cannot even imagine how they are feeling right now.

[PinkPony]

Six jurors picked for Arnette murder trial


www.news-gazette.com/news/courts-crime-fire-/2008/08/18/six/jurors-picked-for-arnette-murder-trial

[packy]

I hope they don't have much trouble picking jurors.

(excerpt from article above)

Difanis earlier turned down a request by Monroe to move the trial out of the county because of extensive publicity. But the judge left the door open for Monroe to renew her request if picking a jury becomes too difficult.

Another source. Says he was not wearing handcuffs in court. Hmmmm.
http://www.wandtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=8860130&nav=menu589_2_2

[PinkPony]

I hope they don't have much trouble picking jurors.

(excerpt from article above)

Difanis earlier turned down a request by Monroe to move the trial out of the county because of extensive publicity. But the judge left the door open for Monroe to renew her request if picking a jury becomes too difficult.

Another source. Says he was not wearing handcuffs in court. Hmmmm.
http://www.wandtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=8860130&nav=menu589_2_2


I'm sure LE transported him in cuffs but removed them before entering the courtroom. Don't want to sway the potential jurists.
The video report was a little misleading, imo.

PP

[packy]

I'm sure LE transported him in cuffs but removed them before entering the courtroom. Don't want to sway the potential jurists.
The video report was a little misleading, imo.

PP

I hear you, Pink Pony. I get the local WAND news down here and they did mention the trial, so I hope they will keep up the coverage.

[PinkPony]

I hear you, Pink Pony. I get the local WAND news down here and they did mention the trial, so I hope they will keep up the coverage.

I hope local media stay on it also.

I'll be there tomorrow and possibly Thurs. but not sure after that.
I believe a Forensic Anthropologist is to testify Mon. 8/25 and I would like to be there for that.

I'll have to play it by ear.

PP

[Battnt]

Thank you for the updates PP and Packy!....Please keep us posted!....

[PinkPony]

As everyone knows I have been in Champaign for Robert Arnett's trial. I did stay Thurs. and will be going back on Monday.

Angela and her husband extended an invitation for me to stay with them, and I took them up on it. LOL They are very gratious people and made me feel so welcomed.
Thank you Angela and hubby:tender:

I want to take this opportunity to stress caution about posting on message boards. A particular board was brought up twice in this trial. As the trial is ongoing I can't say more, but will elaborate later.

www.wicd15/news/news.shtml
Click on video on the left

www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2008/08/21/niece_arnette_admitted_causing_estranged_wifes_dea th

www.illinoishomepage.net/content/fulltext/?cid=27211
Surprising testimony in Champaign County murder trial

www.wandtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=8877538
Champaign murder trial continues, niece testifies against Arnette

www.wandtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=8880538
Witnesses testify about comments made on the night of woman's disappearance

[Battnt]

WOW PP!...Thanks for the info!...God bless Angela...If not for her contacting TES we all know Naomi would still be missing....:1222423:

[PinkPony]

WOW PP!...Thanks for the info!...God bless Angela...If not for her contacting TES we all know Naomi would still be missing....:1222423:

YVW Batty.....Yes, Angela is a determined woman and the whole family needs God's Blessing right.

I pray that healing can begin soon.

PP

[Grande]

My thoughts are with everyone involved. I'm glad you could be there with Angela PP! Please give her a hug from all of us here at HFTM.

:1222423:

[packy]

Thank you for all the updates, PP. Sending up my prayers for the family that they may have strength to get through this and eventually find some peace.

[PinkPony]

Man testifies Arnette told him he got tips on how to kill from 'CSI'
By Steve Bauer
Friday, August 22, 2008 11:12 AM CDT
E-mail Story Printer-friendly
URBANA – A former Urbana man now in jail on a sex-crime charge testified Thursday that Robert Arnette spoke of learning ways to kill his wife from television.

Charles Lisanby, 20, who most recently listed an address in Thomasboro, was arraigned in February on a charge of molesting a teenage girl. He was called as a witness Thursday by prosecutors in the murder trial for Arnette.

Advertisement
Arnette, 39, is accused of the murder and concealment of homicidal death of his estranged wife, Naomi.

Lisanby, who faces a Class 2 felony charge of aggravated sexual abuse accusing him of having sex with a girl between 13 and 17 years old between November and December 2007, testified that he shared an apartment with roommates on Vawter Street in Urbana in May 2007. He said Arnette went to the apartment the night of May 21 to help a female roommate with a computer she got from Arnette.

According to Lisanby, he and Arnette went onto a balcony to smoke cigarettes. Lisanby said that Arnette talked about getting a divorce from his wife and that "CSI," the CBS show about crime scene investigations, came up. "He said every time he watched 'CSI,' he just learned more about how to kill her," Lisanby said.

Lisanby said that at the time, he thought Arnette was joking. Under later questioning by Assistant State's Attorney Duke Harris, Lisanby said he changed his opinion upon learning that Arnette's wife was missing.

Related content
Niece: Arnette admitted causing estranged wife's death(8/21/08)
Six jurors picked for Arnette murder trial(8/18/08)
Mrs. Arnette, 37, was reported missing by family on May 21, 2007. Her body was found in a shallow grave south of Sadorus on Sept. 30, 2007.

Matt Davis, an anthropologist at Illinois State University, testified Thursday that the remains were found in a hole that had been deliberately dug. Davis also said a cloth was found bunched around the neck area.

The anthropologist's testimony contradicted a statement Arnette gave to a sheriff's investigator after he was arrested about a week after the body was discovered. Arnette told sheriff's Investigator Shane Cook that he had found his wife's body hanging from a beam in the basement of her house on May 20. Arnette told the investigator that his wife was hanging by an orange extension cord about 2 1/2 feet off the floor. Arnette said he took the body down, put it into a plastic tote and drove it to the wooded area south of Sadorus.

According to Arnette, he expected the body would be found where he put it in a recessed area on "the main path" into those woods. Cook testified there was no "path."

Champaign County Investigator Dave Sherrick testified that there was not enough room in the basement of that Sadorus home for Mrs. Arnette's body to hang 2 1/2 feet off the floor.

Harris said the prosecution has one additional witness, forensic pathologist Dr. Scott Denton, who will not be available to testify until Monday. He is expected to reveal the cause of death for Mrs. Arnette.

Judge Thomas Difanis, who is presiding in the trial, excused jurors from coming to court today and the trial will resume Monday morning.


Grande and packy:happy0207:

Angela does read here so she will see all the well wishes. She does appreciate them.

I'm glad that I was able to be there for Angela also, Grande. They are such good people having to go through such a horrible time right now.

PP

[PinkPony]

Man testifies Arnette told him he got tips on how to kill from 'CSI'
By Steve Bauer
Friday, August 22, 2008 11:12 AM CDT
E-mail Story Printer-friendly
URBANA – A former Urbana man now in jail on a sex-crime charge testified Thursday that Robert Arnette spoke of learning ways to kill his wife from television.

Charles Lisanby, 20, who most recently listed an address in Thomasboro, was arraigned in February on a charge of molesting a teenage girl. He was called as a witness Thursday by prosecutors in the murder trial for Arnette.

Advertisement
Arnette, 39, is accused of the murder and concealment of homicidal death of his estranged wife, Naomi.

Lisanby, who faces a Class 2 felony charge of aggravated sexual abuse accusing him of having sex with a girl between 13 and 17 years old between November and December 2007, testified that he shared an apartment with roommates on Vawter Street in Urbana in May 2007. He said Arnette went to the apartment the night of May 21 to help a female roommate with a computer she got from Arnette.

According to Lisanby, he and Arnette went onto a balcony to smoke cigarettes. Lisanby said that Arnette talked about getting a divorce from his wife and that "CSI," the CBS show about crime scene investigations, came up. "He said every time he watched 'CSI,' he just learned more about how to kill her," Lisanby said.

Lisanby said that at the time, he thought Arnette was joking. Under later questioning by Assistant State's Attorney Duke Harris, Lisanby said he changed his opinion upon learning that Arnette's wife was missing.

Related content
Niece: Arnette admitted causing estranged wife's death(8/21/08)
Six jurors picked for Arnette murder trial(8/18/08)
Mrs. Arnette, 37, was reported missing by family on May 21, 2007. Her body was found in a shallow grave south of Sadorus on Sept. 30, 2007.

Matt Davis, an anthropologist at Illinois State University, testified Thursday that the remains were found in a hole that had been deliberately dug. Davis also said a cloth was found bunched around the neck area.

The anthropologist's testimony contradicted a statement Arnette gave to a sheriff's investigator after he was arrested about a week after the body was discovered. Arnette told sheriff's Investigator Shane Cook that he had found his wife's body hanging from a beam in the basement of her house on May 20. Arnette told the investigator that his wife was hanging by an orange extension cord about 2 1/2 feet off the floor. Arnette said he took the body down, put it into a plastic tote and drove it to the wooded area south of Sadorus.

According to Arnette, he expected the body would be found where he put it in a recessed area on "the main path" into those woods. Cook testified there was no "path."

Champaign County Investigator Dave Sherrick testified that there was not enough room in the basement of that Sadorus home for Mrs. Arnette's body to hang 2 1/2 feet off the floor.

Harris said the prosecution has one additional witness, forensic pathologist Dr. Scott Denton, who will not be available to testify until Monday. He is expected to reveal the cause of death for Mrs. Arnette.

Judge Thomas Difanis, who is presiding in the trial, excused jurors from coming to court today and the trial will resume Monday morning.


Grande and packy:happy0207:

Angela does read here so she will see all the well wishes. She does appreciate them.

I'm glad that I was able to be there for Angela also, Grande. They are such good people having to go through such a horrible time right now.

PP

I forgot to post the link

www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2008/08/22/man_testifies_arnette_told_him_he_got_tips_on_how_ to_kill_from_csi

Granddaughter is here today and she is like a f**t in a whirlwind. LOL

PP

[PinkPony]

Arnette Guilty Verdict
Reported by: Rich Flesch/WCIA 3
Monday, Aug 25, 2008 @04:14pm CST

A Champaign County jury has found Robert Arnette guilty of killing Naomi Arnette. Mrs. Arnette was reported missing by her family on May 21, 2007. Her body was found in a shallow grave in Sadorus on September 30, 2007. We will have much more on this verdict coming up on Your News Now at five and WCIA 3 News at six.

http://illinoishomepage.net/content/fulltext/?cid=27901

[PinkPony]

Robert Arnette Found Guilty of Murder
Reported by: Cortney Hall
Monday, Aug 25, 2008 @06:39pm CST

Robert Arnette was found guilty of murder and trying to cover it up.
His wife Naomi was found dead in 2007.

Evidence that Angela Roy helped to uncover was actually the evidence that convicted her brother, Robert Arnette.
Prosecutors say there was not one piece of evidence that won this case. It was the culmination of it all and Robert Arnette's inconsistent story.
The Champaign County States Attorney’s office says it will seek the maximum in sentence.

http://illinoishomepage.net/content/fulltext/?cid=27951

[packy]

How sad for the family. Thank you for the update, Pink Pony.

[grammybears]

It was a very sad case and I am glad this case has come to an end. How sad that the children of Naomi are going to have to learn to live with. I pray Angela is able to get past this and that the children are going to have to carry this with them the rest of their life.
Prayers to Angela, the childre, friends and family of Naomi and Angelas family.

[PinkPony]

By Steve Bauer
Tuesday, August 26, 2008 6:58 AM CDT
E-mail Story Printer-friendly
URBANA – Robert Arnette was convicted Monday of killing his estranged wife, Naomi, and burying her body in the woods south of Sadorus to hide the murder.

The jury of seven men and five women found the 39-year-old Arnette guilty of the charges of murder and concealment of a homicidal death. Judge Thomas Difanis set sentencing for Dec. 3. Arnette faces sentences of 20 to 60 years on the murder and two to five years on the concealment charge.

Advertisement
Mrs. Arnette was missing for more than four months before her remains were found in a shallow grave south of Sadorus, where the couple lived before they separated. She was reported missing by her sister-in-law, Angela Roy, on May 21, 2007, after she failed to show up for work.

Mrs. Arnette's body was found on Sept. 30. The remains were confirmed as hers at an autopsy two days later, because they matched her dental records. Dr. Scott Denton, a forensic pathologist based in Bloomington, testified Monday that a rayon shirt or blouse was found twisted or rolled around the neck of Mrs. Arnette.

"It was around the neck tightly," he said.

Denton could not say with certainty just how Mrs. Arnette died.

Related content
Man testifies Arnette told him he got tips on how to kill from 'CSI'(8/22/08)
Niece: Arnette admitted causing estranged wife's death(8/21/08)
Denton said Mrs. Arnette died of an undetermined means, with "a probable homicidal method."

Under questions from Assistant State's Attorney Duke Harris, Denton said it was his opinion that Mrs. Arnette had not hanged herself with an electrical cord. In answer to a later question by Harris, Denton said the cloth would have been sufficient to cause asphyxiation or strangulation.

Evidence presented in the trial last week showed Arnette told Champaign County sheriff's investigator Shane Cook that he found his wife's body hanging in the basement of her home. Arnette said he destroyed a suicide note and then packed her body in a plastic tote, taking it to a wooded area where it was found months later.

Harris said after the verdict was announced that the case was a "terrible tragedy."

"She was the mother of seven kids," Harris said. "The acts of Robert Arnette have impacted a lot of folks."

Harris said there is nothing the prosecutors or police can do to fill that void, but at least these verdicts allow the family to turn another page. He praised the efforts of the Champaign County sheriff's office, particularly those of Cook, who led the investigation. Harris also pointed to the work of EquuSearch, a Texas-based volunteer search organization that found the remains Oct. 1.

"But for them, we might not be where we are today," Harris said.

In final arguments Monday, Harris said Arnette had many opportunities over 100 days to tell authorities or family members where he had placed the body.

"He took the body of his 36-year-old wife and put it in a tote," Harris said. "He took the tote, drove it out in the country and buried his wife."

Harris argued that key testimony came from a niece, Rosanna Deedrick, who had been close to Arnette and confronted him on Aug. 7, asking if he had killed his wife, if he had choked or strangled her, to which he said yes.

Harris pointed to several inconsistencies in Arnette's stories, including the persistent denial of her whereabouts or what had happened to her. The prosecutor also said Arnette said he found his wife hanging from an orange extension cord and that her body was placed on a "main path" in the woods.

"She was put out there by this defendant for one reason," Harris argued. "Robert Arnette did everything he could do to destroy the physical evidence, and he almost got away with it."

Robert Arnette's lawyer, Assistant Public Defender Emily Monroe, argued that the cause of death was undetermined.

"If the experts don't know it, how can you say beyond a reasonable doubt that this man killed his wife," Monroe asked the jury.

She said that the evidence by the prosecution doesn't prove anything against Arnette.

Monroe said no reason was given as to why Arnette was arrested for the murder. She said it was based on a "hunch" by Cook and that he was then "fishing" for proof.

As to whether there was a path in the woods, Monroe said the grass could have grown over the trail between May and September.

www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2008/08/26/jury_convicts_robert_arnette_of_killing_his_estran ged_wife

[PinkPony]

How sad for the family. Thank you for the update, Pink Pony.


YVW packy,

Now Naomi can be laid to rest and her family and friends can start the healing process.
My prayers are with them today and all the days to come.:1222423:

PP

[PinkPony]

By Steve Bauer
Tuesday, August 26, 2008 6:58 AM CDT
E-mail Story Printer-friendly
URBANA – Robert Arnette was convicted Monday of killing his estranged wife, Naomi, and burying her body in the woods south of Sadorus to hide the murder.

The jury of seven men and five women found the 39-year-old Arnette guilty of the charges of murder and concealment of a homicidal death. Judge Thomas Difanis set sentencing for Dec. 3. Arnette faces sentences of 20 to 60 years on the murder and two to five years on the concealment charge.

Advertisement
Mrs. Arnette was missing for more than four months before her remains were found in a shallow grave south of Sadorus, where the couple lived before they separated. She was reported missing by her sister-in-law, Angela Roy, on May 21, 2007, after she failed to show up for work.

Mrs. Arnette's body was found on Sept. 30. The remains were confirmed as hers at an autopsy two days later, because they matched her dental records. Dr. Scott Denton, a forensic pathologist based in Bloomington, testified Monday that a rayon shirt or blouse was found twisted or rolled around the neck of Mrs. Arnette.

"It was around the neck tightly," he said.

Denton could not say with certainty just how Mrs. Arnette died.

Related content
Man testifies Arnette told him he got tips on how to kill from 'CSI'(8/22/08)
Niece: Arnette admitted causing estranged wife's death(8/21/08)
Denton said Mrs. Arnette died of an undetermined means, with "a probable homicidal method."

Under questions from Assistant State's Attorney Duke Harris, Denton said it was his opinion that Mrs. Arnette had not hanged herself with an electrical cord. In answer to a later question by Harris, Denton said the cloth would have been sufficient to cause asphyxiation or strangulation.

Evidence presented in the trial last week showed Arnette told Champaign County sheriff's investigator Shane Cook that he found his wife's body hanging in the basement of her home. Arnette said he destroyed a suicide note and then packed her body in a plastic tote, taking it to a wooded area where it was found months later.

Harris said after the verdict was announced that the case was a "terrible tragedy."

"She was the mother of seven kids," Harris said. "The acts of Robert Arnette have impacted a lot of folks."

Harris said there is nothing the prosecutors or police can do to fill that void, but at least these verdicts allow the family to turn another page. He praised the efforts of the Champaign County sheriff's office, particularly those of Cook, who led the investigation. Harris also pointed to the work of EquuSearch, a Texas-based volunteer search organization that found the remains Oct. 1.

"But for them, we might not be where we are today," Harris said.

In final arguments Monday, Harris said Arnette had many opportunities over 100 days to tell authorities or family members where he had placed the body.

"He took the body of his 36-year-old wife and put it in a tote," Harris said. "He took the tote, drove it out in the country and buried his wife."

Harris argued that key testimony came from a niece, Rosanna Deedrick, who had been close to Arnette and confronted him on Aug. 7, asking if he had killed his wife, if he had choked or strangled her, to which he said yes.

Harris pointed to several inconsistencies in Arnette's stories, including the persistent denial of her whereabouts or what had happened to her. The prosecutor also said Arnette said he found his wife hanging from an orange extension cord and that her body was placed on a "main path" in the woods.

"She was put out there by this defendant for one reason," Harris argued. "Robert Arnette did everything he could do to destroy the physical evidence, and he almost got away with it."

Robert Arnette's lawyer, Assistant Public Defender Emily Monroe, argued that the cause of death was undetermined.

"If the experts don't know it, how can you say beyond a reasonable doubt that this man killed his wife," Monroe asked the jury.

She said that the evidence by the prosecution doesn't prove anything against Arnette.

Monroe said no reason was given as to why Arnette was arrested for the murder. She said it was based on a "hunch" by Cook and that he was then "fishing" for proof.

As to whether there was a path in the woods, Monroe said the grass could have grown over the trail between May and September.

www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2008/08/26/jury_convicts_robert_arnette_of_killing_his_estran ged_wife



I just realized that there are some misprints in this article.

Roberts sentencing date is Nov. 3 not Dec. 3 and Naomi was found Sept. 30 not Oct. 1 as printed.

PP

[PinkPony]

FYI..........Angela's husband is in the hospital today after suffering a heart attack. He had surgery for stent placement and is doing well.

As if this poor woman hasn't been through enough!!!!!

PP

[grammybears]

I am so sorry Angela's husband is in the hospital. Dog gone it she has already been through enough. I cannot even imagine what all Angela has gone through. I wish Angela and her husband nothing but the best.

[packy]

Glad he is doing well now.

[ANGROY]

For you Naomi....This last year and a half has been very difficult and trying time for all involved and especially on my nerves. The things I had to do that I never thought I would have to...the pain of being pulled all different directions... betrayel not only by my brother but others I came to love more then I ever thought I would and will always. I wouldn't wish this nightmare for no one person. For you Naomi I have suffered... I only pray that now you may have peace...rest my sister Love always Angela

[ANGROY]

[QUOTE=PinkPony;359186]FYI..........Angela's husband is in the hospital today after suffering a heart attack. He had surgery for stent placement and is doing well.

As if this poor woman hasn't been through enough!!!!!

PP[/QUOTE

TY PP for posting news on my hubby...poor man has surgery 2 weeks ago on his shoulder to move on to a heart attack w two stents....what is next...I mean really as if I have many nerves left.
Good news is he is doing very well and have been told he will get to leave this hospital tomorrow. He spent one night in icu now he is on the sixth floor board as heck...lol

Thank you for being with me during Roberts trial and holding me during my emotional outburst...Hugs to you Angela

[PinkPony]

[QUOTE=PinkPony;359186]FYI..........Angela's husband is in the hospital today after suffering a heart attack. He had surgery for stent placement and is doing well.

As if this poor woman hasn't been through enough!!!!!

PP[/QUOTE

TY PP for posting news on my hubby...poor man has surgery 2 weeks ago on his shoulder to move on to a heart attack w two stents....what is next...I mean really as if I have many nerves left.
Good news is he is doing very well and have been told he will get to leave this hospital tomorrow. He spent one night in icu now he is on the sixth floor board as heck...lol

Thank you for being with me during Roberts trial and holding me during my emotional outburst...Hugs to you Angela


You are welcome Angela. It was my pleasure to be able to be with you.

This going to be O/T. I have tried to call you today and my phone keeps dropping calls. I tried to pm you and got booted off. LOL I gave up trying.
I will try and call tomorrow.

I'm glad hubby is able to come home tomorrow. Please give him my best wishes for a speedy recovery from both surgeries.

PP

[PinkPony]

FYI...today is Robert's sentencing hearing.

I had planned on being there but circumstances prevented me from going.

I will post the outcome as soon as I know.

PP

[grammybears]

I thought the sentencing was coming up but forgot to write down the date. I will be lloking forward to any news on this hearing.

I am so glad Angela's husband is doing so well and will be coming home.
What a nightmare this poor family has been through.

Blessings to Naomi's children and Angela and her family.

[PinkPony]

Angela just let me know that Robert has been sentenced to 65 yrs.

60 yrs for the murder and 5 yrs for concealing the death.

I will provide a link when one is available.

PP

[ANGROY]

Arnette gets 60 years for murder of estranged wife
By Mary Schenk
Monday November 3, 2008
URBANA – A former Sadorus man convicted of murdering his wife and hiding her body will spend the next several decades behind bars.

Champaign County Judge Tom Difanis Monday sentenced Robert Arnette, 39, to 60 years in prison for the murder of Naomi Arnette to be followed by another 5 years for concealment of a homicidal death. He'll have to serve 100 percent of the murder sentence and at least half of the concealment sentence.

A jury convicted Arnette in August. Mrs. Arnette, 36, was reported missing May 21, 2007. Her remains were found four months later by volunteer searchers in a shallow grave at the edge of a farm field south of Sadorus.

Although a pathologist could not pinpoint the cause of her death, he said a rayon shirt or blouse twisted tightly around her neck could have caused her strangulation.

One of the inconsistent statements Arnette gave sheriff's investigators was that he found his wife's body hanging in her basement and took it down to spare her children from finding her. He further said he put the body in a plastic tote and drove it to woods south of Sadorus.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Find this article at:
http://www.news-gazette.com/news/2008/11/03/arnette_gets_60_years_for_murder_of_estranged_wife
Comments


Contents of this site are © Copyright 2008 The News-Gazette, Inc. All rights reserved.

[PinkPony]

Arnette gets 60 years for murder of estranged wife
By Mary Schenk
Monday November 3, 2008
URBANA – A former Sadorus man convicted of murdering his wife and hiding her body will spend the next several decades behind bars.

Champaign County Judge Tom Difanis Monday sentenced Robert Arnette, 39, to 60 years in prison for the murder of Naomi Arnette to be followed by another 5 years for concealment of a homicidal death. He'll have to serve 100 percent of the murder sentence and at least half of the concealment sentence.

A jury convicted Arnette in August. Mrs. Arnette, 36, was reported missing May 21, 2007. Her remains were found four months later by volunteer searchers in a shallow grave at the edge of a farm field south of Sadorus.

Although a pathologist could not pinpoint the cause of her death, he said a rayon shirt or blouse twisted tightly around her neck could have caused her strangulation.

One of the inconsistent statements Arnette gave sheriff's investigators was that he found his wife's body hanging in her basement and took it down to spare her children from finding her. He further said he put the body in a plastic tote and drove it to woods south of Sadorus.

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Comments


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Thank you Angela,

My continued prayers for Naomi's family and friends.

PP

[mrsmcgoo]

Thankfully justice is served! :1187603408.CR.Mothe

I was wondering how this came out as far as Robert posting at CTV? Anyone know if it was brought up at trial or anything he spoke about, was it ever mentioned?

[PinkPony]

Yes it was brought up at trial.

I posted about it when the trial was ongoing. I'll see if I can find the post.

PP

[PinkPony]

Yes it was brought up at trial.

I posted about it when the trial was ongoing. I'll see if I can find the post.

PP
It was post #60 mrsmcgoo.

CTV was brought up twice during the trial but nothing was specified as to the contents of Robert's posts.

PP

[packy]

Thanks for the updates, Angela and PP. This is so sad and hard for all the family, and I wish some peace for everyone now.

[mrsmcgoo]

It was post #60 mrsmcgoo.

CTV was brought up twice during the trial but nothing was specified as to the contents of Robert's posts.

PP


Thank you very much PP! I will go back and read what you posted. I wondered about how that would work. There was just something about what he was posting and at the time, it raised huge red flags with me.

Angela, I don't know you, but remember you posting as well. God Bless you and your family. :love0085:

[Grande]

For everyone that has been touched by this tragedy :1222423:

Pink Pony, thank you for keeping us up to date and remaining in contact w/ Angela on behalf of us all. I feel relieved today knowing that justice has been served.

Ang, for you :1222423:

And to Naomi's friends and family, including the HFTM family :1222423:

[Roamer]

Naomi finally has justice. May she now RIP. :1222423:

[Grande]

Arnette gets 65 years for murdering his wife, concealing body
By Mary Schenk
Tuesday, November 4, 2008 9:03 AM CDT

URBANA – A Champaign County judge said Naomi Arnette's death should be a message to other victims of domestic violence that they must speak up.

"They don't have to put up with it. It is a serious and ongoing problem in our country. You will be heard," Judge Tom Difanis said Monday morning, seconds before sentencing Mrs. Arnette's estranged husband to 65 years in prison for her murder and concealing her body afterward.

"It's apparent this defendant is dangerous and will remain so until he is too old and too infirm to remain dangerous," Difanis said after reviewing the lifelong criminal history of Robert Arnette.

The 39-year-old Sadorus man declined to say anything on his own behalf before Difanis imposed the sentence, but as the judge was leaving the bench, Arnette said: "Thank you, your honor."

Arnette will have to serve 100 percent of the 60-year sentence for murder but could receive day-for-day good time on the five-year sentence for concealment of a homicidal death.

Assistant State's Attorney Duke Harris had urged Difanis to consider that maximum sentence, calling Arnette devoid of rehabilitative potential.

Harris said Arnette's criminal history began in 1982 when he was adjudicated a delinquent minor for theft and went to juvenile prison. As an adult, Arnette was in and out of prison, convicted of two burglaries, four thefts, one armed robbery and one aggravated criminal sexual abuse, for which he served a total of 23 years in prison, Harris said.

To bolster his contention that Arnette deserved the maximum, Harris had Theresa Henson, 38, testify about a letter Arnette sent her from jail just last week.

Henson met Arnette over the Internet after his wife, 36, was reported missing on May 21, 2007. They began a relationship in June 2007. Henson was instrumental in his prosecution, agreeing to wear a wire to tape-record conversations with Arnette in which he talked about finding his wife's body and disposing of it.

Arnette had consistently denied to sheriff's investigators having any role in his wife's disappearance. It wasn't until Sept. 30, 2007, that volunteer searchers found her body in a shallow grave south of Sadorus.

The Arnettes lived in Sadorus with her seven children, two of whom were fathered by Arnette. Although her exact cause of death could not be determined, a pathologist found a cloth wrapped tightly around her neck.

The two-page letter he wrote to Henson was friendly in tone until about the last paragraph: "Hate me all you want but I'll never forget what we had and how you turned on me. I never forget betrayal. You take care and enjoy life while you can before it's too late and it passes you by." In a post-script, he wrote: "Buy a gun. You never know when you'll need it. I'll probably be back in a couple of years. See you soon."

Henson testified she felt "threatened and intimidated" by the letter.

Arnette's attorney, Assistant Public Defender Emily Monroe, said her client had "lost everything" and knows he is going to die in prison.

Arguing for a sentence less than the maximum, Monroe said Arnette had "an unusually difficult childhood."

"His parents absolutely failed him, then society failed him," she said, referring to a letter that Arnette's older sister, Angela Roy, wrote to Difanis detailing the abuse he endured as a child from his father and mother.

Arnette's rights to the two children he fathered with Mrs. Arnette were terminated in January. Monroe called that worse than any sentence Difanis could impose.

"He's lost everything that matters to him. It's clear his depression has taken hold," she said.

Arnette declined to participate in the preparation of his presentence investigation report, designed to give the judge plenty of information on which to base a sentence.

His sister and Mrs. Arnette's oldest daughter were present for Monday's hearing, but both declined to comment afterward.

Four other of Mrs. Arnette's children submitted written statements to Difanis detailing the impact of their mother's death on them. The girls expressed their disgust for Arnette and their sadness at the loss of their mother, whom they described as their best friend.

"It's hard knowing that we don't have our mom for anything in the future that we will do or have," wrote 16-year-old Elizabeth Wilson.

"Why did you do that to her, Dad? But I still love you, but never do that agin, (sic) OK?" wrote his 9-year-old daughter, Michelle Arnette.

http://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2008/11/04/arnette_gets_65_years_for_murdering_his_wife_conce aling_body

[mrsmcgoo]

:love0085:

For the victims of this crime. :1222423:

[PinkPony]

:1222423:For Naomi, Angela, and Heaven Sent 7:1222423:

[Battnt]

I'm so glad to see justice served for Naomi...:1187603408.CR.Mothe

This poem is for Naomi's family...God bless them all.....:1222423:

Footprints in the Sand


One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,
other times there were one set of footprints.

This bothered me because I noticed
that during the low periods of my life,
when I was suffering from
anguish, sorrow or defeat,
I could see only one set of footprints.

So I said to the Lord,
"You promised me Lord,
that if I followed you,
you would walk with me always.
But I have noticed that during
the most trying periods of my life
there have only been one
set of footprints in the sand.
Why, when I needed you most,
you have not been there for me?"

The Lord replied,
"The times when you have
seen only one set of footprints in the sand,
is when I carried you."
Mary Stevenson


RIP now Naomi...:1222423: