People v. Phelps

After a jury trial, defendant, Willie Phelps, was found guilty of attempted murder and aggravated battery. The trial court sentenced defendant to a 10-year term of imprisonment. On appeal, defendant contends that the trial court abused its discretion in denying his motion for a continuance to obtain new counsel.

On October 21, 1987, defendant was arrested for the September 26, 1987, shooting of Robert Morris and was charged with attempted murder and aggravated battery. On the following day, the public defender’s office was appointed to represent defendant. Defendant was released on bond.

On…