Striking Deputy Sheriff Leads To Bar Charges

The Illinois ARDC has filed a complaint alleging that:

1. On November 17, 2006, Respondent, while appearing in court on behalf of Rita Patel, in the matter entitled In re the Marriage of Patel, case number 03 D 330179 in the Circuit Court of Cook County, began yelling at the Honorable James J. Donegan. Judge Donegan then ordered Respondent from his court room.

2. Cook County Deputy Sheriff Eric Gross ("Gross"), in performance of his official duties, attempted to escort Respondent from the courtroom pursuant to the order of Judge Donegan. Respondent initially resisted and struck Gross numerous times in his ribs.

3. As a result of Respondent’s actions on November 17, 2006, Deputy Gross suffered a fractured left rib and received medical treatment for his injuries at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

It is alleged that the accused attorney was charged with aggravated battery and pleaded guilty to a  reduced charge of assault. (Mike Frisch)