People v. Gross

Defendant appeals a jury verdict convicting him of one count of aggravated battery, four counts of armed violence and five counts of reckless conduct. The numerous issues raised on appeal necessitate a thorough recitation of the facts.

Defendant Randy Gross, a 20-year-old janitor, finished work on May 17,1975, about 3:30 p.m. After a stop at home, he went first to his mother’s house, where he consumed three beers, and then went to Tony Hutchison’s house, where he also drank. James Algee and defendant went to Algee’s mother’s house about 6 p.m. There, defendant consumed more hard liquor.…