Dad pleads guilty to lesser charge

An Algonquin man who lost his cool when confronting his son's rival was ordered to undergo anger counseling as part of a plea bargain struck Wednesday with McHenry County prosecutors.

Michael Kasper, 43, admitted guilt to a misdemeanor battery charge as part of a deal in which he must also serve 18 months' probation, pay $1,500 in fines and perform 200 hours of community service.

Kasper initially faced a felony aggravated battery charge stemming from the May 21 incident in which police said he grabbed a 12-year-old boy by the back of the head and shoved him to the ground.

The altercation occurred during a Little League game at Algonquin's Presidential Park, though both Kasper and the boy were there only as spectators. The boy was not injured.

Kasper's attorney, William Hellyer, called the incident an unfortunate event and described his client as an asset to his community.

"The bottom line is that the alleged victim was picking on Mike Kasper's son," Hellyer said. "(Kasper) realizes he didn't handle it well and he's going to make amends. Emotions got the best of him."

Prosecutors said they were willing to offer Kasper a reduced charge because he had no prior record and was willing to participate in an anger management program.

"We felt it was appropriate for the defendant to engage in counseling," First Assistant McHenry County State's Attorney Thomas Carroll said.