Lakeville man sentenced to life in prison

Oct. 22, 2026

Jack Joseph Ball, 25, of Lakeville, was sentenced today to life in prison for the death of his sister, Bethany Ann Israel and her unborn child, Dakota County Attorney Kathy Keena announced.

As requested by the state, the Honorable Bryce A.D. Ehrman sentenced Ball to two life sentences that will be served consecutively without the possibility of parole.

Following a court trial, Ball was found guilty of one count of premeditated first-degree murder and one count of premeditated first-degree murder of an unborn child. Under Minnesota law, a conviction of first-degree murder carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment.

The incident occurred May 23, 2024. Ms. Israel, who was 17 to 18 weeks pregnant, was brutally murdered at Ball’s residence. Further details regarding the circumstances of the case can be found in a previous issued media release.

“The defendant’s actions were profoundly disturbing and incomprehensible in their cruelty. His conduct has devastated countless lives and inflicted trauma on our communities,” said County Attorney Keena. “I extend my sincere gratitude to all those who contributed to the investigation and prosecution of his horrific case. I also offer my deepest condolences to Bethany’s family, friends and all those who cherished her.”

Ball remains in custody at the Dakota County Jail awaiting transfer to the Department of Corrections.