Man sentenced for role in Easter Sunday murder

The last of three people involved in the robbery and murder of a Riverside man on Easter Sunday in 2013 was sentenced to a combined 35 years to life in prison Wednesday afternoon.

Jacob Gipson, 26, will serve 15 years to life for his role in the slaying of 45-year-old John Grachek. He was also sentenced to 10 years for aggravated burglary and an additional 10 years for aggravated robbery.

Police say Gipson, along with Grachek’s estranged wife Jamie Grachek, 33, and 26-year-old Gary Webb, broke into Grachek’s home on Rosegarden Court. Grachek was shot multiple times and was found lying outside of his residence, officials said. He later died from his injuries at an area hospital.

“I am truly sorry,” a tearful Gipson said during his sentencing. “I never would have participated in this if I knew this was going to happen.”

Jamie Grachek and Webb were sentenced to 21 years to life and 18 years to life, respectively, for their roles in the crime.

John Grachek’s family members were at the sentencing. His children are going to have a difficult Christmas because their mother was involved in the murder, but they want to give the gift of forgiveness to everyone involved, his sister Christina Grachek said.

“We just want to let you know from our hearts we’re sad,” a sobbing Christina Grachek said. “But we hope that in time you can accept this free gift that is offered, even to you.”

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