People v. J.A.

The State appeals from the circuit court’s order dismissing its petition to have the respondent, J.A., declared a delinquent minor. The State contends the court erred in dismissing the petition on the ground of prejudicial delay.

On August 1, 1989, the State filed a petition for adjudication of wardship of respondent. Count I alleged that respondent, who was born August 16, 1979, was a delinquent minor by virtue of having committed arson (Ill. Rev. Stat. 1989, ch. 38, par. 20 — 1(a)). It further alleged that he knowingly damaged by fire a garage belonging to Jacque Cribb.

Count II alleged that…