CRIMINAL

NEW VICTORIES

*NEW* Father Accused of Sexually Abusing Stepdaughter- Charges Dropped

Defendant, a dual citizen of United States and United Kingdom, accused by Plainfield Police of criminal sexual abuse to stepdaughter. Defendant denies all allegations. Search warrant served on Defendant's home looking for evidence. Our Defense Team effectively blocked any further interrogation by Plainfield Police. Wife and stepdaughter later retract all allegations of wrongdoing. Kendall County State's Attorney unwilling to drop charges. Defense Team strategically position the case to require the prosecutor to dismiss all charges.

*NEW* Cashier Charged with Over $5,000 in Fraud- Case Dismissed

Gas station cashier charged with Theft and Fraud by Hammond Police Department. Defendant alleged to have obtained credit card information from co-worker and made over $5,000.00 in charges to cards. Wigell & Associates convince judge to dismiss case based on lack of evidence and the unavailability of witnesses. All charges dismissed.

*NEW* 21 Pitt Bulls- Not Guilty of Dog Fighting

Defendant charged with 42 counts of Dog Fighting and Aggravated Cruelty to Animals. As reported by Fox News, Defendant's Lynwood property raided where Lynwood Police and Cook County Sheriff Investigator Larry Draus find 21 Pitt Bull dogs. Also found was a ginny, spring pole, medications, Barney Fife Keep, as well as underground dog fighting magazines Pitt Bull Tribune and Sporting Dog Journal. Defendant was found not guilty of all felony Dog Fighting charges, as well as all felony Aggravated Cruelty counts after bench trial.

*NEW* EBay Fraud Reduced to Misdemeanor and Avoids Conviction

Defendant charged in Will County Court with fraudulent EBay sales involving computers. Search Warrant was served by Frankfort Police seizing several computers and related hardware. Alleging dozens of thefts involving EBay fraud, the prosecutor disclosed over 100 witnesses it intended to call at trial, some living as far away asIceland and Puerto Rico. Wigell & Associates Defense Team was able to obtain Court Supervision on an amended misdemeanor theft charge, which results in no criminal conviction and is expugnable.

*NEW* $1.5 Million Demand in Sexual Assault- $0 Awarded

Defendant sued for money damages arising out of an investigation for allegedly sexually assaulting a classmate at a boarding school. Plaintiff asked the jury for $1.5 million for damages. Finding in favor of Defendant, no money to Plaintiff/victim after jury trial.

*NEW* Delivery of Controlled Substance Dismissed

Defendant charged by Chicago Heights Police and FBI with delivery of controlled substance to a Confidential Informant (CI). Defendant facing mandatory 6-30 prison sentence upon conviction (Class X Felony). Wigell & Associates Defense Team files pretrial motion to exclude photo identification of Defendant on date of incident. Confidential Informant unable to positively identify Defendant on date of trial. Prosecutors forced to dismiss case.

*NEW* 3rd Time Telephone Harasser Not Guilty

Defendant charged by Homewood Police with Telephone Harassment for the third time with the same complainant. Defendant had previously pleaded guilty to similar charges while represented by other counsel. Defendant is charged with 3rd offense while on probation for the 2nd offense and facing significant jail time. Defendant hires Wigell & Associates Defense Team for new offense. Defendant is purported to have made an oral statement admitting to the harassing phone calls. Defense Team filed a Motion to Suppress Statements based on a 5th Amendment violation of Miranda Warnings. Motion granted- Case Dismissed.

*NEW* Loaded 9mm Semi-Automatic Weapon in Car Avoids Felony

Defendant charged by Chicago Police with Aggravated Unlawful Use of Weapon (UUW). Officer testifies that he stopped vehicle for traffic violation and upon approach observed driver drop magazine out of a handgun and put it in the glove compartment. Officer recovers weapon with one round in chamber and full magazine. During cross examination, officer unable to clarify how many total rounds of ammo recovered. Defense Team successfully argue that officer's credibility damaged by inconsistencies with ammunition, as well as his location when he observed the weapon upon approach. Vehicle had dark tinted windows. University graduate Defendant Not Guilty of Aggravated UUW, guilty of misdemeanor UUW and avoids felony conviction.

*NEW* Handgun Found at Roadblock- Roadblock Declared Unconstitutional

Chicago Police discover a loaded handgun in Defendant's vehicle during a roadside checkpoint and charged with Aggravated Unlawful Use of Weapon (UUW). Defense Team files a Motion to Suppress Evidence asking the Court to declare the roadblock unconstitutional. Referring to a United States Supreme Court case presented by Defense Team, Court determines that the roadblock was unconstitutional, Motion to Suppress Evidence granted, case dismissed.

*NEW* Cocaine Found During Traffic Stop- Case Dismissed

Orland Park Police respond to anonymous call that driver is smoking marijuana (cannabis) in his car. Defense Team files Motion to Suppress Evidence based on an illegal search and seizure. At hearing, officer testifies that he stopped vehicle for expired registration and asked Defendant for permission to search vehicle. Cocaine and drug paraphernalia recovered after search. On cross examination officer admits that he never detected any odor of cannabis or observed any other evidence that Defendant was smoking marijuana. Motion to Suppress granted, case dismissed.

*NEW* Disgruntled Employee Acquitted of Alleged Bomb Threat

Senior employee with close to 30 years on job is fired under suspicious circumstances and is charged by Orland Park Police with Disorderly Conduct. Employee is accused by Employer of threatening harm and destruction to the business. Employer offers to drop charges if Defendant doesn¿t claim unemployment, which is rejected by Defendant. At trial, two long-time friends and employees testify against Defendant, along with other members of management. The court finds the evidence, even in the light most favorable to the State, insufficient to convict. Motion for Directed Finding Granted¿Defendant Not Guilty.

*NEW* 4th Arrest for Telephone Harassment- Not Guilty

Homewood Police arrest Defendant for a fourth time alleging that she made harassing telephone calls to a former paramour. Defendant facing jail time as she is still on probation from her second offense which she pleaded guilty to while represented by another attorney. Wigell & Associates discover during their investigation that the State will be unable to connect the phone calls to Defendant. Finding Not Guilty after Bench Trial.

*NEW* Stungun in Carry-on Luggage- Case Dismissed

As covered by Chicago ABC (channel 7), CBS (channel 2), and NBC (channel 5) news and Chicago Tribune/Chicago Sun Times. Defendant, a dual citizen of Nigeria and USA, arrested at O'Hare Airport after stungun found in carry-on bag at security checkpoint. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guard found suspicious item during security screening. Defendant charged by Chicago Police with Unlawful Use of a Weapon (UUW) and Attempting to Board an Aircraft with a Weapon. Defendant was returning from missionary work in Nigeria when the stungun was found. At preliminary hearing, after extensive cross examination by the Wigell & Associates Defense Team, finding of no probable cause, case dismissed.

*NEW* Child Porn Found on Computer- Not Guilty

Defendant took computer to Frankfort computer repair shop for repairs. Will County Sheriff notified by shop of suspect kiddie porn on hard drive. Defendant charged with felony Possession of Child Pornography in the Circuit Court of Will County. Defendant facing 2-5 years in prison and lifetime sex offender registration upon conviction. Defendant gave a video taped statement admitting to surfing the internet for child porn. Wigell & Associates retained internationally renowned forensic computer expert to examine computer hard drive and assist in defense. At trial, the Defense Team successfully argue that most images were downloaded while computer was in possession of repair shop. Additionally, through expert testimony it was established that the other images of child pornography which were on the hard drive were contained in unallocated, temporary internet, and recycle bin files, negating Defendant's intent and knowledge of possession. Defendant Not Guilty of all charges and lifetime registration as sex offender avoided.

*NEW* Defendant "Creepy" but Not Guilty of Touching 14 yr. Girl

Defendant accused by 14 year old girl of inappropriate touching. Hazel Crest Police obtain a statement from Defendant where he admitted giving girl a massage on her thighs and buttocks. Defendant's 11 year old son testifies that he was present at all times and that Defendant never touched girl inappropriately. The Judge, in making his finding, indicated that while he found the Defendant guilty of "Creepiness" that the Defense had created a reasonable doubt, and therefore, found the Defendant Not Guilty.

*NEW* Citizen's Arrest Defense in Battery

Defendant charged by Westmont Police with two counts of battery. Defendant at home with his daughter when five or more teenagers dressed in black with their faces masked egged the house and wrote "slut" on the sidewalk in spray paint. Defendant pursued them down the street and apprehended two of them.. A struggle followed and the police were called. At trial, Defendant asserts his right to make a citizen's arrest, Not Guilty of all charges.

*NEW* Building Manager Not Guilty of Solicitation of a Sexual Act

Chicago Heights Police accuse Defendant of Soliciting a Sexual Act. Defendant is building maintenance manager of Chicago Heights apartment complex. Complaining witness is a tenant with three months back rent due. Complainant testifies that Defendant offered to eliminate back rent in exchange for sex. Not Guilty after Bench Trial.

*NEW* Defendant Acquitted of Criminal Trespass to Vehicle

Defendant arrested by Tinley Park Police for Criminal Trespass to Motor Vehicle. Complainant, Defendant's ex-girlfriend, alleges that she picked Defendant up in the middle of the night to go to a motel. A verbal argument ensued and Defendant allegedly left in Complainant's car, stranding her at the motel with no way home. At trial, ex-girlfriend impeached on cross examination that vehicle was not hers. Finding Not Guilty.

*NEW* Disgruntled Employee Accused of Computer Tampering--Not Guilty

Former employee accused of destroying company's inventory information from employer's computer system. Defendant contacted by Homewood Police to come in for questioning. A member of the Wigell & Associates Defense Team accompanies Defendant to police station where she asserts her 5th Amendment privilege against self incrimination. Police unable to sustain felony charges because no signed statement by Defendant. Defendant rejects all offers by State for plea bargain. Not Guilty after Bench Trial.

*NEW* Businessman Not Guilty of Theft

Self employed businessman charged by Bolingbrook Police with theft of pallets. Defendant found behind a building with his van loaded full of pallets. At trial, Complainant and owner of the building testified that he stores pallets behind building. Cross examination of building owner revealed that the pallets are stacked so high that a forklift is required for removal. Defendant acquitted of all charges.

SEX CRIMES

*NEW* Father Accused of Sexually Abusing Stepdaughter- Charges Dropped

Defendant, a dual citizen of United States and United Kingdom, accused by Plainfield Police of criminal sexual abuse to stepdaughter. Defendant denies all allegations. Search warrant served on Defendant's home looking for evidence. Our Defense Team effectively blocked any further interrogation by Plainfield Police. Wife and stepdaughter later retract all allegations of wrongdoing. Kendall County State's Attorney unwilling to drop charges. Defense Team strategically position the case to require the prosecutor to dismiss all charges.

*NEW* $1.5 Million Demand in Sexual Assault- $0 Awarded

Defendant sued for money damages arising out of an investigation for allegedly sexually assaulting a classmate at a boarding school. Plaintiff asked the jury for $1.5 million for damages. Finding in favor of Defendant, no money to Plaintiff/victim after jury trial.

*NEW* Child Porn Found on Computer- Not Guilty

Defendant took computer to Frankfort computer repair shop for repairs. Will County Sheriff notified by shop of suspect kiddie porn on hard drive. Defendant charged with felony Possession of Child Pornography in the Circuit Court of Will County. Defendant facing 2-5 years in prison and lifetime sex offender registration upon conviction. Defendant gave a video taped statement admitting to surfing the internet for child porn. Wigell & Associates retained internationally renowned forensic computer expert to examine computer hard drive and assist in defense. At trial, the Defense Team successfully argue that most images were downloaded while computer was in possession of repair shop. Additionally, through expert testimony it was established that the other images of child pornography which were on the hard drive were contained in unallocated, temporary internet, and recycle bin files, negating Defendant's intent and knowledge of possession. Defendant Not Guilty of all charges and lifetime registration as sex offender avoided.

*NEW* Defendant "Creepy" but Not Guilty of Touching 14 yr. Girl

Defendant accused by 14 year old girl of inappropriate touching. Hazel Crest Police obtain a statement from Defendant where he admitted giving girl a massage on her thighs and buttocks. Defendant's 11 year old son testifies that he was present at all times and that Defendant never touched girl inappropriately. The Judge, in making his finding, indicated that while he found the Defendant guilty of "Creepiness" that the Defense had created a reasonable doubt, and therefore, found the Defendant Not Guilty.

*NEW* Building Manager Not Guilty of Solicitation of a Sexual Act

Chicago Heights Police accuse Defendant of Soliciting a Sexual Act. Defendant is building maintenance manager of Chicago Heights apartment complex. Complaining witness is a tenant with three months back rent due. Complainant testifies that Defendant offered to eliminate back rent in exchange for sex. Not Guilty after Bench Trial.

Juvenile Sex Case Avoids Lifetime Sex Offender Registration

Juvenile charged with Criminal Sexual Assault in Will County. Lifetime registration as a sexual predator required upon conviction. Wigell & Associates successful in having charge amended and reduced. Juvenile sentenced to supervision. Lifetime registration avoided.

Failure to Register as Sex Offender--Case Discharged

Defendant charged with Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Wigell & Associates argue Defendant unfit to stand trial. Will County Prosecutors seeking extended term jail sentence. Defendant discharged after fitness hearing.

Child Porn Reduced to Misdemeanor

Defendant charged with soliciting a minor over the internet and possession of several hundred child pornography images in Park Forest, Illinois. Charges reduced to non-sex misdemeanor offense. Defendant sentenced to conditional discharge and allowed to move to Europe. Sex offender registration avoided.

Finding of Not Guilty on Criminal Sexual Assault

Defendant charged with Criminal Sexual Assault. Defendant, an economics major at a top state university, is alleged to have broken into victim's Chicago Heights apartment and attempted intercourse. Defendant positively identified in open court by victim and victim's mother. Finding of Not Guilty after bench trial.

Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse

Defendant charged with several counts of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse. Victim is Defendant's step-daughter. Defendant gives oral statement to Lansing Police admitting to charges. Finding of Not Guilty after jury trial.

Internet Sex Case Reduced to Misdemeanor and Expunged

34 year old Defendant solicits 14 year old girl in an internet chat room and engages in sexual activity on several occasions. Defendant charged with several count felony indictment. Charges reduced to misdemeanor battery. Defendant sentenced to supervision and avoids sex offender registration. Entire record and arrest expunged after completion of supervision.

VIOLENT CRIMES

*NEW* 21 Pitt Bulls- Not Guilty of Dog Fighting

Defendant charged with 42 counts of Dog Fighting and Aggravated Cruelty to Animals. As reported by Fox News, Defendant's Lynwood property raided where Lynwood Police and Cook County Sheriff Investigator Larry Draus find 21 Pitt Bull dogs. Also found was a ginny, spring pole, medications, Barney Fife Keep, as well as underground dog fighting magazines Pitt Bull Tribune and Sporting Dog Journal. Defendant was found not guilty of all felony Dog Fighting charges, as well as all felony Aggravated Cruelty counts after bench trial.

*NEW* Citizen's Arrest Defense in Battery

Defendant charged by Westmont Police with two counts of battery. Defendant at home with his daughter when five or more teenagers dressed in black with their faces masked egged the house and wrote "slut" on the sidewalk in spray paint. Defendant pursued them down the street and apprehended two of them.. A struggle followed and the police were called. At trial, Defendant asserts his right to make a citizen's arrest, Not Guilty of all charges.

Double Attempted Murder w/Paralyzed Victim- Not Guilty w/Self Defense

Defendant charged with Attempted First Degree Murder and Aggravated Battery with a Firearm on two separate complainants. Defendant allegedly shot both men, severely injuring one and paralyzing the other. Paralyzed victim testified in court from a gurney that he will live in a nursing home for the rest of his life. Defendant asserted justifiable use of force (self defense). Wigell & Associates Defense Team elicited testimony from both complainants on cross examination that Defendant did not shoot first, an unknown third party behind complainants shot first. After a trial, Not Guilty of all charges.

Not Guilty of Murder- Point Blank Shot To Back of Head

Defendant charged by Richton Park Police with first degree murder. Evidence at trial indicates that Defendant, while sitting in the back seat of the car shot driver of car at point blank range. Defendant raised affirmative defense of justifiable use of force (self defense). Jury Verdict of Not Guilty of first degree murder.

Not Guilty on First Degree Murder

Defendant charged in Chicago Heights drive by shooting. Defendant is alleged get-away driver and facing minimum of 20 years upon conviction. Defendant rejected negotiated disposition of 8 years in prison in exchange for his testimony against other co-defendants. Defendant not guilty after Jury Trial.

Not Guilty on Aggravated Battery of a Child

Uncle charged with Class X felony to nephew. Defendant facing mandatory 6-30 year prison sentence upon conviction. Defendant alleged to have picked up child and body slammed head into basement floor in Lansing, Illinois. Alleged victim suffered fractured skull, chipped tooth, and facial rug burns. Finding not guilty after Bench Trial.

Corrections Officer Not Guilty in Attack on Inmate

Illinois Department of Corrections officer charged with Felony Official Misconduct in attack on juvenile inmate in Dupage County. Injuries sustained by alleged victim. Fellow corrections officer testified for the prosecution that Defendant attacked inmate unprovoked. Finding not guilty after Bench Trial.

Taste of Chicago Battery--Not Guilty

College student charged with Battery after fight at Taste of Chicago. Alleged victim sustained severe mouth and facial injuries. Finding not guilty after Bench Trial.

Not Guilty on Domestic Battery with Injuries to Woman and Minor Child

Defendant charged with Domestic Battery to ex-girlfriend and her 9 year old son in Riverdale, Illinois. Both complainants alleged Defendant cut them with a knife. Minor child treated in hospital with stitches for cut on foot. Impeaching evidence of Defendant's prior 30 year prison sentence for Aggravated Kidnapping and Home Invasion excluded at trial upon Motion by Wigell & Associates. Pictures of bloody footprints introduced at trial. Wigell & Associates argue that "blood" in photos was ketchup, and that minor injured by debris on floor. Finding of Not Guilty after Jury Trial.

Juvenile Aggravated Battery Motion to Vacate Guilty Plea Sustained

Juvenile charged with Aggravated Battery-Great Bodily Harm, and Aggravated Battery to a Senior Citizen. Prior attorney told defendant to plead guilty. Wigell & Associates consulted for second opinion. Motion to withdraw guilty plea allowed. Finding of Not Guilty on all charges after trial.

Boot camp for Class X Felony Home Invasion and Aggravated Battery

Defendant charged with Home Invasion and Aggravated Battery, among other charges. Possible penalties of 6 to 30 years in the penitentiary, with no probation available. Multiple defendants beat victim unconscious. Victim suffered fractured facial bones and ribs. Prosecutors asking for prison time. Wigell & Associates strategically utilized the Supreme Court Rules and successfully convinced the judge that prison was inappropriate. Defendant sentenced to six months boot camp.

Finding of Not Guilty in Aggravated Battery

Defendant, a corrections officer, charged with aggravated battery arising out of a bar fight in Kane County, Illinois. Victim was hit in the face with a glass. Victim receives over 100 stitches and has permanent scaring. Defendant asserts affirmative defense of justifiable use of force at trial. Independent witness says not self defense. Finding of Not Guilty after jury trial.

DRUG CRIMES

*NEW* Delivery of Controlled Substance Dismissed

Defendant charged by Chicago Heights Police and FBI with delivery of controlled substance to a Confidential Informant (CI). Defendant facing mandatory 6-30 prison sentence upon conviction (Class X Felony). Wigell & Associates Defense Team files pretrial motion to exclude photo identification of Defendant on date of incident. Confidential Informant unable to positively identify Defendant on date of trial. Prosecutors forced to dismiss case.

*NEW* Cocaine Found During Traffic Stop- Case Dismissed

Orland Park Police respond to anonymous call that driver is smoking marijuana (cannabis) in his car. Defense Team files Motion to Suppress Evidence based on an illegal search and seizure. At hearing, officer testifies that he stopped vehicle for expired registration and asked Defendant for permission to search vehicle. Cocaine and drug paraphernalia recovered after search. On cross examination officer admits that he never detected any odor of cannabis or observed any other evidence that Defendant was smoking marijuana. Motion to Suppress granted, case dismissed.

Drugs Suppressed and Case Dismissed

Defendant charged with Possession of Cannabis and Possession of Controlled Substance. Defendant arrested by Matteson Police with marijuana and mushrooms in backpack. Defendant signs consent to search his Chicago apartment where police found more marijuana. The Court granted Motion to Quash Arrest and Suppress Evidence finding no probable cause to stop. The marijuana found in the apartment was also suppressed as "fruit of the poisonous tree." Case dismissed.

Guns, Drug, and DUI Cases Dismissed Based on Unlawful Detention

Defendant was charged with Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Driving Under the Influence of Drugs. Defendant's vehicle is searched, handgun and crystal meth found. Wigell & Associates filed a motion to suppress evidence. Motion to suppress granted, case dismissed.

Possession of Controlled Substance Case Dismissed After Illegal Search

Out-of-state Defendant charged in Chicago with possession of methamphetamine analog. Defendant and co-Defendant from Arkansas stopped and car searched. Police find several thousand ephedrine cold pills, and other ingredients to manufacture crystal meth. Wigell & Associates file Motion to Suppress Evidence. Case dismissed.

Marijuana Charges Dismissed Because of Improper Traffic Stop

Defendant charged with Possession of Cannabis with intent to deliver. Police conduct traffic stop and search car. Over one pound of cannabis and large amount of cash seized. Motion to Suppress Evidence initially denied. Motion to Reconsider filed and granted, evidence suppressed, case dismissed.

GUNS / WEAPONS / EXPLOSIVES

*NEW* Loaded 9mm Semi-Automatic Weapon in Car Avoids Felony

Defendant charged by Chicago Police with Aggravated Unlawful Use of Weapon (UUW). Officer testifies that he stopped vehicle for traffic violation and upon approach observed driver drop magazine out of a handgun and put it in the glove compartment. Officer recovers weapon with one round in chamber and full magazine. During cross examination, officer unable to clarify how many total rounds of ammo recovered. Defense Team successfully argue that officer's credibility damaged by inconsistencies with ammunition, as well as his location when he observed the weapon upon approach. Vehicle had dark tinted windows. University graduate Defendant Not Guilty of Aggravated UUW, guilty of misdemeanor UUW and avoids felony conviction.

*NEW* Handgun Found at Roadblock- Roadblock Declared Unconstitutional

Chicago Police discover a loaded handgun in Defendant's vehicle during a roadside checkpoint and charged with Aggravated Unlawful Use of Weapon (UUW). Defense Team files a Motion to Suppress Evidence asking the Court to declare the roadblock unconstitutional. Referring to a United States Supreme Court case presented by Defense Team, Court determines that the roadblock was unconstitutional, Motion to Suppress Evidence granted, case dismissed.

*NEW* Disgruntled Employee Acquitted of Alleged Bomb Threat

Senior employee with close to 30 years on job is fired under suspicious circumstances and is charged by Orland Park Police with Disorderly Conduct. Employee is accused by Employer of threatening harm and destruction to the business. Employer offers to drop charges if Defendant doesn't claim unemployment, which is rejected by Defendant. At trial, two long-time friends and employees testify against Defendant, along with other members of management. The court finds the evidence, even in the light most favorable to the State, insufficient to convict. Motion for Directed Finding Granted'Defendant Not Guilty.

*NEW* Stungun in Carry-on Luggage- Case Dismissed

As covered by Chicago ABC (channel 7), CBS (channel 2), and NBC (channel 5) news and Chicago Tribune/Chicago Sun Times. Defendant, a dual citizen of Nigeria and USA, arrested at O'Hare Airport after stungun found in carry-on bag at security checkpoint. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guard found suspicious item during security screening. Defendant charged by Chicago Police with Unlawful Use of a Weapon (UUW) and Attempting to Board an Aircraft with a Weapon. Defendant was returning from missionary work in Nigeria when the stungun was found. At preliminary hearing, after extensive cross examination by the Wigell & Associates Defense Team, finding of no probable cause, case dismissed.

Gun Case Dismissed and 35 Firearms Returned

40 year old Defendant's business is raided by 12 police officers with the Kankakee Metropolitan Enforcement Group (KMEG) without a search warrant. Police advise Defendant that his Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card has been revoked. Police search Defendant's business, vehicle, and home and find 35 firearms and quantities of ammunition, including a gun with defaced serial numbers. Wigell & Associates suppress evidence and successfully return firearms to Defendant.

INTERNET / COMPUTER CRIMES

*NEW* Disgruntled Employee Accused of Computer Tampering--Not Guilty

Former employee accused of destroying company's inventory information from employer's computer system. Defendant contacted by Homewood Police to come in for questioning. A member of the Wigell & Associates Defense Team accompanies Defendant to police station where she asserts her 5th Amendment privilege against self incrimination. Police unable to sustain felony charges because no signed statement by Defendant. Defendant rejects all offers by State for plea bargain. Not Guilty after Bench Trial.

*NEW* Child Porn Found on Computer- Not Guilty

Defendant took computer to Frankfort computer repair shop for repairs. Will County Sheriff notified by shop of suspect kiddie porn on hard drive. Defendant charged with felony Possession of Child Pornography in the Circuit Court of Will County. Defendant facing 2-5 years in prison and lifetime sex offender registration upon conviction. Defendant gave a video taped statement admitting to surfing the internet for child porn. Wigell & Associates retained internationally renowned forensic computer expert to examine computer hard drive and assist in defense. At trial, the Defense Team successfully argue that most images were downloaded while computer was in possession of repair shop. Additionally, through expert testimony it was established that the other images of child pornography which were on the hard drive were contained in unallocated, temporary internet, and recycle bin files, negating Defendant's intent and knowledge of possession. Defendant Not Guilty of all charges and lifetime registration as sex offender avoided.

*NEW* EBay Fraud Reduced to Misdemeanor and Avoids Conviction

Defendant charged in Will County Court with fraudulent EBay sales involving computers. Search Warrant was served by Frankfort Police seizing several computers and related hardware. Alleging dozens of thefts involving EBay fraud, the prosecutor disclosed over 100 witnesses it intended to call at trial, some living as far away asIceland and Puerto Rico. Wigell & Associates Defense Team was able to obtain Court Supervision on an amended misdemeanor theft charge, which results in no criminal conviction and is expugnable.

WHITE COLLAR CRIMES

*NEW* Cashier Charged with Over $5,000 in Fraud- Case Dismissed

Gas station cashier charged with Theft and Fraud by Hammond Police Department. Defendant alleged to have obtained credit card information from co-worker and made over $5,000.00 in charges to cards. Wigell & Associates convince judge to dismiss case based on lack of evidence and the unavailability of witnesses. All charges dismissed.

*NEW* EBay Fraud Reduced to Misdemeanor and Avoids Conviction

Defendant charged in Will County Court with fraudulent EBay sales involving computers. Search Warrant was served by Frankfort Police seizing several computers and related hardware. Alleging dozens of thefts involving EBay fraud, the prosecutor disclosed over 100 witnesses it intended to call at trial, some living as far away asIceland and Puerto Rico. Wigell & Associates Defense Team was able to obtain Court Supervision on an amended misdemeanor theft charge, which results in no criminal conviction and is expugnable.

OTHER CRIMES

*NEW* 3rd Time Telephone Harasser Not Guilty

Defendant charged by Homewood Police with Telephone Harassment for the third time with the same complainant. Defendant had previously pleaded guilty to similar charges while represented by other counsel. Defendant is charged with 3rd offense while on probation for the 2nd offense and facing significant jail time. Defendant hires Wigell & Associates Defense Team for new offense. Defendant is purported to have made an oral statement admitting to the harassing phone calls. Defense Team filed a Motion to Suppress Statements based on a 5th Amendment violation of Miranda Warnings. Motion granted- Case Dismissed.

*NEW* 4th Arrest for Telephone Harassment- Not Guilty

Homewood Police arrest Defendant for a fourth time alleging that she made harassing telephone ing jail time as she is still on probation from her second offense which she pleaded guilty to while represented by another attorney. Wigell & Associates discover during their investigation that the State will be unable to connect the phone calls to Defendant. Finding Not Guilty after Bench Trial.

*NEW* Defendant Acquitted of Criminal Trespass to Vehicle

Defendant arrested by Tinley Park Police for Criminal Trespass to Motor Vehicle. Complainant, Defendant's ex-girlfriend, alleges that she picked Defendant up in the middle of the night to go to a motel. A verbal argument ensued and Defendant allegedly left in Complainant's car, stranding her at the motel with no way home. At trial, ex-girlfriend impeached on cross examination that vehicle was not hers. Finding Not Guilty.

*NEW* Businessman Not Guilty of Theft

Self employed businessman charged by Bolingbrook Police with theft of pallets. Defendant found behind a building with his van loaded full of pallets. At trial, Complainant and owner of the building testified that he stores pallets behind building. Cross examination of building owner revealed that the pallets are stacked so high that a forklift is required for removal. Defendant acquitted of all charges.

Other Crimes

The Wigell & Associates Defense Team has successfully represented persons charged with the following offenses in State and Federal Courts:

White Collar Crimes

Drugs/Controlled Substances

Violent Crimes

Other Criminal Offenses

Sex Offenses

Traffic/DUI Offenses

DUI VICTORIES

*NEW* Charged w/ DUI After Passenger Jumps Out of Moving Car

Driver charged inPutnam County with driving under the influence of drugs, driving under the combined influence of alcohol and drugs, and driving under the influence of intoxicating compounds after passenger jumped out of the moving vehicle. Defendant admitted drinking and taking Vicodin to police. At trial, prosecution called two police officers, a pharmacist, a paramedic, and an independent witness. Jury returned not guilty verdicts on all charges after less than one hour of deliberation

*NEW* DUI Defendant Fails All Field Tests on Video- Not Guilty

Defendant found by Illinois State Police passed out behind the wheel of the car on the side of the highway. Defendant had vomited on himself and appeared extremely intoxicated on police in-car video. Wigell & Associates DUI Defense Team argue that no keys to vehicle were found in car or on Defendant. Petition to Rescind Statutory Summary Suspension granted, Not Guilty of DUI after bench trial.

*NEW* 2nd DUI Not Guilty After Hit & Run Accident

Defendant charged by Chicago Heights Police with DUI and leaving the scene of an accident. Officer testifies at trial that Defendant failed all field sobriety tests. Officer impeached by Wigell & Associates DUI Defense Team at trial, answering over 15 questions with, "I don't recall." Jury deliberated for only 45 minutes before returning not guilty verdicts on all charges.

*NEW* 2nd DUI Caught on Video- All Charges Dismissed

Illinois State Police follow Defendant for over 2 miles before stopping him for improper lane usage. Defendant performed standardized field sobriety tests on video and according to police officer fails all tests. Preliminary Breath Test (PBT) result .160, double the legal limit. Defendant charged by ISP with 2nd DUI. Defendant still on Court Supervision for 1st DUI. State dismisses all charges on morning of jury trial.

*NEW* 3 Car Accident, Defendant Unable to Stand- Not Guilty

Driver allegedly ran a red light, T-boned a car, hit another car and plowed into the side of a building. Defendant unable to stand on her own, police testify to a strong odor of alcohol and slurred speech. Oak Lawn Police Department charged driver with DUI. DUI Defense Team successfully argue that poor balance was due to accident and remaining evidence not beyond a reasonable doubt. Not Guilty after Bench Trial.

*NEW* .10 Breathalyzer- Not Guilty

Driver charged with first DUI by Sauk Village Police. Police testify that Defendant failed all standardized field sobriety tests and had a breathalyzer reading of .10 BAC. During cross examination, officer admitted that field sobriety test failures were technical failures rather than loss of physical faculties due to alcohol consumption. Officer also admitted to 2 ½ hour delay between arrest and breath test. Not Guilty after Bench Trial.

*NEW* Breathalyzer & Field Sobriety Tests Suppressed- Case Dismissed

Defendant involved in accident. Chicago Heights Police called to investigate. DUI Defense Team files motion to quash arrest and suppress evidence because of illegal search and seizure, and unlawful arrest. At hearing, officer testifies that Defendant had poor balance, strong odor of alcohol on breath, slurred speech. Officer further stated that Defendant failed all standardized field sobriety tests, and had a .121 BAC after a breath test. Field sobriety tests and breath test suppressed and excluded from trial. All charges dismissed.

*NEW* CDL Driver Failed Breath Test¿All Charges Dismissed

Driver with CDL arrested for DUI by Chicago Police. Defendant facing one year mandatory disqualification of his commercial drivers license. DUI Defense Team filed a Petition to Rescind Statutory Summary Suspension which was granted, preventing Defendant's license from being suspended for 3 months. DUI Defense Team also filed a motion to quash arrest and suppress evidence because of illegal search and seizure, and unlawful arrest. At hearing, officer testifies that Defendant had strong odor of alcohol on breath and bloodshot, glassy eyes. Later at the station, Defendant failed all standardized field sobriety tests, and had a .162 blood alcohol content after taking a breathalyzer test. The judge granted motion, and excluded all field tests and breath test. Case dismissed, no loss of driving priveliges or CDL.

*NEW* Single Car Roll-Over Accident in 2nd DUI- Not Guilty

Driver charged with 2nd offense drunk driving case after single car accident. At trial, an independent witness testified for prosecution, indicating that the car was weaving and driving erratically before swerving off the road and flipping 3 times. Witness further testifies that driver "reeked of alcohol", was wobbling, and was "clearly drunk." Two officers from the Will County Sheriff's Police testified, both indicating that Defendant had a strong odor of alcohol, slurred speech, poor balance, and failed field sobriety tests. Squad car video contradicted officers, showing good speech and balance by Defendant. Defendant called paramedic witness who testified that she had no odor of alcohol, no slurred speech, good balance, and did not appear intoxicated. Will County judge returned a Not Guilty verdict on DUI after a bench trial.

*NEW* Breathalyzer Almost Three Times Legal Limit--Not Guilty

Defendant charged by Phoenix Police with two counts of DUI and Speeding. Officer testified that Defendant was stopped for speeding, failed all field sobriety tests, admitted that he was drunk, and had a .210 breath test reading. At trial, Wigell & Associates excluded failed breathalyzer result and severely damaged officer's testimony on cross examination. Not Guilty of all charges after Bench Trial.

*NEW* .095 Breathalyzer Admitted at Trial--Acquitted of All Charges

Hazel Crest Police stop Defendant for traffic violation. Defendant failed two field sobriety tests and failed breath test with a .095 BAC. At trial Defendant stipulated to breathalyzer reading. Wigell & Associates DUI Defense Team obtained a Not Guilty on all charges by impeaching the accuracy of the breath test result. Under cross examination, the arresting officer admitted that he had not followed the proper procedures prior to administering the breath test.

*NEW* Not Guilty Despite .325 BAC and Accident

Defendant found on highway by Illinois State Police after single car accident. Defendant transported by Chicago Fire Department to hospital where a blood test indicated a blood alcohol level over four times the legal limit (.325 blood alcohol content). At trial, prosecution could not prove that Defendant was driving the vehicle. Defendant Not Guilty of all charges.

*NEW* No Headlights and Driving on Wrong Side of Road

Markham Police stop Defendant for driving at night without his headlights on, and for driving on the wrong side of the road. Defendant failed all standardized field sobriety tests. Officer's testimony impeached on cross examination through omission of details in police report. Not Guilty after Bench Trial.

Not Guilty on DUI with Accident and Open Alcohol

Defendant hit three parked cars. Admitted drinking five beers to Kankakee Police. Defendant failed all field sobriety tests. Open beer can found in Defendant's pocket. Not Guilty after Jury Trial.

DUI with Written Statement "I'm Drunk"--Not Guilty

Defendant involved in hit and run accident and arrested for DUI. Defendant signs written statement to Park Forest Police that he drank a fifth of Hennessy by himself, got into a car accident, and fled the scene because he was too drunk. Officer testifies that Defendant was so intoxicated that Defendant fell over after exiting vehicle. Finding not guilty of DUI after Bench Trial.

2nd DUI with .187 Blood Test--Not Guilty

Defendant charged in 2nd DUI submitted to blood test indicating a BAC of .187, over double the legal limit of .08. Defendant allegedly assaults Chicago Heights Police Officer, and attempts suicide while in custody. Blood test suppressed and excluded at trial. Negative evidence of Defendant's suicidal and erratic behavior excluded from trial on Defendant's Motion. Finding not guilty of DUI and Assault after Jury Trial.

High Speed Chase at Over 80 mph--Not Guilty

Defendant charged with Aggravated Fleeing and Eluding a Police Officer. Lynwood Police officer positively identifies Defendant at trial. Officer testifies that Defendant crashed car and turned to look at officer upon exiting vehicle and running away. Finding not guilty after Jury Trial.

Finding of Not Guilty on DUI with Unusual Defense

Defendant charged with DUI. Defendant failed field sobriety tests according to University Park Police Officer. Using the officers own squad car video to impeach him, Wigell & Associates, obtained a not guilty. Wigell & Associates successfully argued that Defendant performed poorly on field sobriety tests, not because she was intoxicated, but because she was overweight.

Breathalyzer Inadmissible in 2nd DUI- Finding Not Guilty

Defendant charged with 2nd DUI. Defendant takes breathalyzer with a result over three times legal limit. Wigell & Associates object to admission of breathalyzer results at trial based on improper foundation and Discovery violations. Breathalyzer excluded. Police officer's field sobriety test testimony severely impeached on cross examination, finding of not guilty.

Probation in Reckless Homicide

19 year old Defendant charged with Reckless Homicide and Aggravated DUI. Victim decapitated when Defendant drives off roadway and hits telephone pole in Midlothian, Illinois. Defendant facing 3 to 14 years in jail. Prosecution asks for prison time. Wigell & Associates successfully argues for probation.

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