People v. Watson

Does the filing of an amended post-conviction petition restart the 90-day period in which the circuit court may dismiss a petition as frivolous or patently without merit? The answer is yes.

Defendant was convicted of first degree murder, aggravated criminal sexual assault, and aggravated kidnaping, and was sentenced to natural life plus 65 years in prison. The appellate court affirmed on direct appeal. People v. Watson, No. 3—93—0444 (1996) (unpublished order under Supreme Court Rule 23). Defendant then filed a pro se petition for post-conviction relief in the circuit court of La Salle County…