People v. Owens

Following a bench trial, Yusef Owens (Owens) was convicted of reckless driving. 625 ILCS 5/11 — 503 (West 2000). Owens claims the trial court conducted the bench trial without first admonishing him of his right to a jury trial and without getting a valid jury waiver before proceeding. For the reasons that follow, we reverse the trial court’s judgment and remand for a new trial consistent with the views expressed herein.

BACKGROUND

The misdemeanor complaint alleged that Owens, with a wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property, drove over the curb and onto the easement, swerved from…