A southern Illinois man has been found guilty in the 2008 shooting death of a New Baden man, whose body was hidden in a vacant house that was set afire. Lortez D. Thomas of Washington Park, Illinois was found guilty Wednesday in the death of 47-year old Eric Mollet. However, the Saint Clair County jury acquitted Thomas of raping two female witnesses. The Belleville News-Democrat reports Defense Attorney Erin Conner says Thomas continues to maintain his innocence. Prosecutors say Mollet was shot to death in Thomas’ home after becoming involved in a fight with Thomas and two other men. Murder charges in Mollet’s death have also been filed against 37-year old Jason Cowley of Collinsville, who allegedly assisted the 35-year old Thomas in Mollet’s slaying. Thomas is scheduled for sentencing on July 3rd.