People v. Cook

Roger Cook was indicted for first-degree murder in connection with the death of Lauren Whitewing (Lauren). Cook was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment after a jury trial by the circuit court of Cook County. A timely notice of appeal was filed. Defendant requests that this court reverse and remand for a new trial on the charge of second-degree murder or, in the alternative, reduce the sentence or remand for resentencing.

Defendant makes five arguments: (1) the evidence was insufficient to sustain a conviction where the State failed to prove beyond a…