16-Year-Old Sentenced to 17 Years for Attempted Murder

Salem juvenile tried as adult for stabbing incident last June

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 16-year-old Salem juvenile boy has been sentenced to 17 years in prison on a Class X felony charge of attempted first degree murder. Tayshaun Rinehart entered a negotiated plea and was also sentenced to 7 years for aggravated battery in connection with the same incident where he stabbed a 16-year-old Salem girl multiple times in the abdomen and back last June.

Why it matters

This case highlights the increasing trend of juveniles being tried as adults for violent crimes, raising questions about the criminal justice system's approach to rehabilitating young offenders versus prioritizing harsh punishments. The victim's testimony also provides insight into the lasting trauma experienced by survivors of such attacks.

The details

Rinehart will have to serve at least 85% of the 17-year sentence. Charges of armed violence and two counts of aggravated battery were dropped as part of the negotiated plea deal. The victim was airlifted to a St. Louis hospital for treatment and testified at the hearing, saying the night of the stabbing was the "worst day" of her life but that she is now surrounded by loved ones as she recovers.

  • The stabbing incident occurred last June.
  • Rinehart entered his plea and was sentenced on Tuesday, February 25, 2026.

The players

Tayshaun Rinehart

A 16-year-old Salem juvenile boy who was tried as an adult and sentenced to 17 years in prison for attempted first degree murder and 7 years for aggravated battery.

The Victim

A 16-year-old Salem girl who was stabbed multiple times in the abdomen and back by Rinehart. She was airlifted to a St. Louis hospital for treatment and testified at the hearing.

Judge Mark Stedelin

The judge who presided over the case and handed down the 17-year sentence to Rinehart.

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What they’re saying

“The night of the stabbing was the worst day of her life but things are better now as she is surrounded by people she loved.”

— The Victim (southernillinoisnow.com)

“I apologize for my actions.”

— Tayshaun Rinehart (southernillinoisnow.com)

What’s next

Rinehart will serve his time in the juvenile Illinois Department of Corrections until he turns 18, at which point he will be transferred to an adult prison. After his release, he will have to serve 3 years of mandatory supervised release.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex issues surrounding the prosecution of juvenile offenders, balancing the need for accountability with the potential for rehabilitation. It also underscores the lasting trauma experienced by victims of violent crimes and the importance of providing support and resources for their recovery.