People v. Bates

In November 2003, a jury convicted defendant, Stacey D. Bates, of attempt (bribery) (720 ILCS 5/8 — 4(a), 33 — 1(a) (West 2002)). In January 2004, the trial court sentenced defendant in absentia to two years in prison and assessed court-appointed counsel fees totaling $520.

Defendant appeals, arguing only that the reimbursement order must be vacated because the trial court failed to conduct a hearing on his ability to pay. We disagree and affirm.

I. BACKGROUND

In August 2003, the State charged defendant with attempt (bribery) and two counts of aggravated assault (720 ILCS 5/12 — 2(a)(1) (West…