People v. Michels

James R. Michels, the defendant, was charged in a four-count indictment with murder. After trial by jury in the circuit court of Rock Island County the defendant was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of not less than three years and four months nor more than 10 years.

Prior to imposing sentence the trial court scheduled a sentencing hearing, however, no witnesses were called to testify in aggravation or mitigation. Counsel for the defendant and the State’s Attorney elected to rely on a presentence investigation report. Following arguments by…