City of De Kalb v. Thomas

In each of the cases consolidated here on appeal, plaintiff, the City of De Kalb, appeals from the judgment of the trial court ordering De Kalb to pay the fees of defense counsel appointed by the court. We reverse.

De Kalb is a home rule municipality pursuant to article VII, section 6(a), of the Illinois Constitution. Ill. Const. 1970, art. VII, § 6(a). As such, it has the authority to regulate public safety. See Ill. Const. 1970, art. VII, § 6(a). De Kalb has passed various ordinances regarding disorderly conduct, battery, criminal damage to property, and retail theft. See City of De Kalb…