DeKalb, Illinois – Linda Nelson has spent the past year grappling with the unimaginable loss of her granddaughter, Gracie Sasso-Cleveland, who was tragically found slain last year. Initially overwhelmed by grief and despair, Nelson has since found solace in a newfound determination to honor Gracie’s memory and seek justice for her.
In an emotional statement, Nelson expressed her desire to create a kinder world in honor of Gracie, emphasizing the young girl’s love for animals and her aspirations of entering adulthood. Gracie’s life was cut short, depriving her of experiences like prom and working at a clothing shop, milestones she had eagerly anticipated.
The tragic events unfolded on May 7, 2023, when Gracie’s lifeless body was discovered in a dumpster near an apartment building in DeKalb. Suspicions quickly turned towards Timothy Doll, a registered sex offender with a history of criminal charges involving minors. Authorities allege that Doll confessed to suffocating Gracie after a dispute, ultimately leading to her untimely demise.
Since Doll’s arrest and subsequent charges of first-degree murder, Nelson has been unwavering in her pursuit of justice, attending every court hearing via Zoom to ensure that her granddaughter’s voice is heard. The pain of Gracie’s absence continues to haunt the family, particularly as they marked what would have been her Sweet 16 birthday without her presence.
As the legal proceedings against Doll unfold, Nelson remains steadfast in her commitment to honoring Gracie’s memory and advocating for stricter punishments in cases of sexual crimes against minors. Despite the heart-wrenching loss, the family finds solace in coming together to celebrate Gracie’s life, cherishing the moments they shared with her and holding onto the memories of her kindness and love.