ANDERSON, Ind. — A 13-year-old boy pleaded guilty to murder and armed robbery with no plea deal on Tuesday, according to the Madison County Prosecutor.
Joseph Henry Vannote Jr., pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to the following:
- Count I: Murder, a felony
- Count II: Felony Murder, a felony
- Count III: Armed Robbery, a Level 3 felony
The defense is requesting Alternative Juvenile Sentencing, but the state is requesting the teen be sentenced as an adult. If charged as an adult Vannote would face 45-65 years.
“I take the view that if you’re old enough to know what you’re doing and you intentionally take the life of another person, we’re going to try you as an adult,” said Andrew Hanna, Chief Deputy Prosecutor.
“Anytime you see juveniles associated or charged with offenses like this, it’s extremely concerning and disheartening.”
Vannote allegedly stabbed a 61-year-old man to death near a gas station on the 900 block of West 12th St. in October 2024 in Anderson. He then reportedly stole his wallet and a few hundred dollars in cash.
FOX59/CBS4 earlier reported that the teen confessed to his mother, and she turned in her son.
The sentencing is set for July 1, 2025, at 10 a.m.
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