Mexico man charged with attempted murder sentenced to 15 years

Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney Jacob Shellabarger announced on Thursday that Daryl Richardson, 23, pleaded guilty to attempted murder, assault charges and use of a firearm while intoxicated.

Richardson was sentenced to 15 years on the attempted murder and assault and four years on the use of a firearm while intoxicated.

Richardson was scheduled for a jury trial on Nov. 29, but entered a plea deal.

Richardson has been in the custody of the Audrain County jail since the shooting incident on Jan. 1.

The shooting happened on Howell Manor Court when Richardson got into an argument with another man and shot him twice when the man was walking away.

The victim was taken to University Hospital and later survived his injuries.

“Daryl Richardson’s decision to combine alcohol, bravado and firearms had serious, lasting consequences,” Shellabarger said. “Richardson has taken responsibility for his actions in shooting this victim, and in doing so, faces a serious sentence with serious consequences. This conviction should make it clear that Audrain County does not tolerate reckless, stupid use of firearms: Guns are dangerous, deadly weapons that must be respected, protected and used in a responsible manner all the time.”

For more on the shooting, click here.