People v. Dotson

The State appeals from orders of the circuit court of Peoria County dismissing two criminal cases for lack of a speedy trial. Because the issues in both cases are identical, the two appeals have been consolidated before this court.

Defendant Lloyd G. Dotson, a/k/a Lloyd G. Shorty, was charged by information with attempted retail theft and battery on September 11, 1986, and defendant made a jury demand and a motion for a speedy trial on November 19, 1986. The cause was set for trial on January 21, 1987, but on that date a continuance was granted because defendant’s attorney was unavailable. The…