People arrested on counts of violent crime in Illinois can face charges of aggravated battery and/or assault. Aggravated charges indicate the presence of circumstances that make the crime more serious than it would be otherwise. What this means for you if authorities charge you with aggravated battery is that you could face harsher penalties if convicted.
According to the Illinois General Assembly, there are a number of complex factors that, if present during the alleged crime, could lead to charges of aggravated battery. These factors include the use of a weapon, location, an individual’s status and the injury that allegedly results.
Weapon use
Use of a deadly weapon can result in charges of aggravated battery. Such a weapon could be a firearm but does not necessarily have to be.
Location
Certain locations have protected status, meaning that a violent crime allegedly committed there may result in aggravated battery charges. These locations include sports venues, domestic violence shelters, public places of amusement or accommodation, public ways or any other public property.
Status of the alleged victim
It is not only locations that have protected status; it is certain groups of people as well. Examples include children and the elderly, disabled individuals and women who are pregnant. Certain professions, such as law enforcement officers, transit workers, government officials and teachers, also receive protected status.
Injury
Law enforcement may impose aggravated battery charges if the alleged victim becomes permanently disfigured, disabled or otherwise suffers “great bodily harm.”
The information in this article is not intended as legal advice but provided for educational purposes only.
