Not So Smooth in Madison County
When Billiards Meets Bad Decisions

GraniteCityGossip.com, September 1, 2025

In the land of Mayberry, Sheriff Andy might’ve offered a gentle word, a slice of pie, and a ride home in the squad car with the windows down. But in Madison County? Let’s just say the pie was replaced with paperwork, and the ride came with handcuffs and felony charges.

Ronald L. Jones, 34, of Granite City, apparently mistook law enforcement for a game of pool on August 25, 2025, when he allegedly hurled a billiard ball at a Madison County Sheriff’s deputy. That’s right, a billiard ball. Not a cue stick. Not a dart. A full-on, regulation-size, barroom-grade cannonball of regret. Jones now faces one count of aggravated assault of a peace officer, firefighter, or EMS (a Class 4 felony), and one count of resisting a peace officer.

Translation: Madison County isn’t chalking this one up as a misunderstanding.

Cue Ball Chaos

Unlike the forgiving folks of Mayberry, Madison County prosecutors weren’t in the mood for a folksy resolution. No porch swing chats. No “now, now, son” speeches. Just cold, hard charges and a court date.

Jones, who may now be reconsidering his choice of recreational equipment, faces serious consequences. And while the billiard ball may have missed its target, the legal system didn’t.

Lessons Learned

Let this be a cautionary tale: If you’re feeling feisty in Granite City, keep your pool balls on the table and your hands off the deputies. Madison County doesn’t play games, unless it’s chess, and you’re already in jail.

And to Mr. Jones: next time you feel the urge to throw something, try kindness. Or maybe a cornhole bag. Those are softer.