Log in | Sign Up

Charges Filed Against 17-Year-Old East St. Louis Teen In Belleville Shooting Case

Save Share
Listen to the story

Joseph P. Flagg of East St. Louis.

BELLEVILLE — A 17-year-old from East St. Louis has been charged with multiple felonies, including first-degree murder, in connection with the shooting death of Dirico V. Washington. Joseph P. Flagg was taken into custody by Belleville detectives on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, following an investigation into the incident.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Sign in to hide this notification.

The Belleville Police Department presented evidence to the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s office on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025, leading to the charges against Flagg. He faces serious allegations, including first-degree murder and unlawful possession of a handgun under the age of 18, among others. The complete list of charges includes:

  • First Degree Murder, Class M Felony
  • First Degree Murder in the Commission of a Forcible Felony, Class M Felony
  • Unlawful Sale or Delivery of a Firearm, Class 2 Felony
  • Attempt Unlawful Sale or Delivery of Firearm, Class 3 Felony
  • Unlawful Possession of Handgun Under 18 Years Old, Class 4 Felony
  • Unlawful Delivery of Cannabis, Class 4 Felony

Article continues after sponsor message
Reach Your Local Community with Us - advertise today!

Flagg is currently being held at the St. Clair County Juvenile Detention Center as the case proceeds through the court system.

Additionally, two adult suspects were arrested in St. Louis, Mo., in connection with the investigation, but they have been released pending further review and investigation.

As with all suspects charged, Flagg is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Prefer RiverBender on Google
Copyright 2026 Riverbender.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

More like this:

Suspect Was Wearing Clown Suit: East St. Louis 15-Year-Old Charged in Fatal Bus Stop Stabbing
Aug 7, 2026
Jerseyville Vehicle Shooting Suspect Faces Attempted Murder Charges
5 days ago
Illinois State Police Arrest Fairview Heights Man On Murder Charge In Fatal East St. Louis Shooting
Aug 3, 2026
Alton Police Arrest Suspect In August 20, 2026, Shooting
4 days ago
Murder Charges Filed After Cahokia Heights Bar Shooting
Sep 4, 2026