Convicted killer Brian Dugan pleaded guilty to the rape and murder of 10 year-old Jeanine Nicarico, Tuesday. Nicarico's family has been waiting for this for 26 years.
Dugan, 52, told the judge he understands there is a possibility he could face the death penalty. On February 25, 1983, prosecutors say Nicarico was home alone and recovering from the flu. Dugan kicked open the door of her Naperville home and abducted the girl. Her body was found two days later near the Illinois Prairie Path. She had been raped, and beaten to death.
In 1985, Dugan was in plea negotiations for the murders of a nurse and a 7 year-old girl when he first indicated he may have been responsible for Nicarico's death. Prosecutors charged two other men, who were twice convicted and sent to death row, before DNA evidence later linked Dugan to the crime.
The case led to the arrests of 7 Dupage County Sheriff's officials and prosecutors. The "Dupage 7" were aquitted on charges they tried to frame an innocent man. The case also helped convince former Governor George Ryan to clear out death row in 2003.
Dugan has long said he would plead guilty, if his life was spared. Even though prosecutors will seek the death penalty in this case, Dugan is hoping his guilty plea will convince a jury that he should not be sentenced to death.
Sentencing begins on September 22nd.
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