Illinois man found guilty of murdering gambler

CLAYTON, Mo. -- An East St. Louis, Ill., man faces sentencing next month after being found guilty of killing a gambler for his casino winnings.

A St. Louis County jury deliberated four hours Thursday before finding Mark Hammond, 28, guilty of murder, robbery and armed criminal action. Sentencing will be Dec. 16. Hammond could face up to life in prison.

The crime happened in November 2000. David Yang, 41, was returning to his south St. Louis County home from a night at two St. Louis area casinos when he was shot and killed in his garage. Police said Hammond likely followed Yang home.

Police said Yang was robbed of more than $4,000 and had another $7,000 in his wallet that the robber did not take.