People v. Romanski

As a result of statements made during his closing argument before a jury, attorney Henry Romanski was found guilty of contempt. He was also fined and placed on conditional discharge for one year. Upon review of the record, we are unable to find that Romanski’s actions were contemptuous. Therefore, we reverse.

On September 26, 1985, Romanski was representing Joseph Malone in a jury trial in Peoria County. Prior to closing arguments, the assistant State’s Attorney submitted a motion in limine. He sought to prohibit any argument during closing statements which would inform the jury that a…