People v. Lampton

On April 14, 1981, a Tazewell County grand jury indicted the defendant, William Lampton, for attempt (murder), armed violence (two counts), and aggravated battery (four counts). Trial was by jury. The jurors returned guilty verdicts on all armed violence and aggravated battery charges. Defendant was acquitted of attempt. Judgment was entered on the first armed violence count. Defendant appeals.

Were the prosecutor’s opening remarks so prejudicial as to deny defendant a fair trial? Did the People prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt? Did the trial judge err in aggravating defendant’s sentence,…