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Haley Reinhart appears at court hearing for nightclub brawl charges

Former “American Idol” finalist and Wheeling native Haley Reinhart appeared in a Rolling Meadows courtroom Wednesday for a brief hearing related to a brawl that erupted at a Palatine nightclub last month.

Reinhart, 26, was charged with misdemeanor battery after authorities say she struck a member of the security staff at Lamplighter Inn Tavern & Grille.

During the hearing, which lasted less than five minutes, Palatine prosecutor James Etchingham indicated to Cook County Judge James Pieczonka the village will be ready for a trial on Oct. 6, Reinhart's next appearance.

Accounts differ as to what occurred while Reinhart and some of her friends were at the bar on July 8. An attorney for Reinhart's friend Alan Chislof, said Reinhart touched a rope separating tables from the dance floor, angering bouncers, one of whom grabbed Reinhart's arm.

Police said someone from Reinhart's party flipped over a table and the group was asked to leave. As they were doing so, police said Reinhart struck a bouncer.

A brawl erupted, during which Chislof, 30, suffered a concussion, broken nose, black eyes and other injuries. The altercation was captured on surveillance and cellphone video.

Lamplighter employee Adam Sobanski, 32, was charged with aggravated battery after authorities say he choked and struck Chislof. Sobanski was ordered held on $45,000 bail last month. He next appears in court on Aug. 10.

‘American Idol’ star, Wheeling native Haley Reinhart arrested at Palatine bar

Palatine police: Person hurt during Haley Reinhart arrest

Attorney: Haley Reinhart’s friend got concussion, cuts in Lamplighter Inn brawl

Bar employee charged in brawl that involved Haley Reinhart and friends

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