Ottawa fatal shooting suspect’s trial set for Sept. 18

Facing up to 85 years in prison, Phillips acting as own lawyer

Nicolaus J. Phillips, 24, of Spring Valley awaits a hearing July 6, 2023, in La Salle County Circuit Court. Phillips is charged with first-degree murder in the June 5 shooting death of Eric Clements, 42, of Ottawa. If convicted of murder with a firearm, Phillips would face an extended sentence of 45-85 years.