Cubs-backing brothers plead not guilty in attack on Sox fan
A pair of Chicago Cubs fans accused of beating a White Sox fan so severely last month that he lost an eye pleaded not guilty today to felony charges that could land each in prison for three years or more.
Jaroslaw "Jerry" Czapla, 31, of Huntley, and his brother Boguslaw "Bob" Czapla, 37, of Elmwood Park, each asked for jury trials on allegations stemming from an alcohol-fueled argument at a child's second birthday party.
A third Cubs fan charged in the incident, Maciej Trojnar, 33, of Elmwood Park, remains a wanted man. A $10,000 warrant for his arrest has been issued.
Police said the defendants and the 32-year-old Gurnee man they are accused of beating were drinking together at Jaroslaw Czapla's home July 19 during a Sesame Street-themed birthday party for the niece of the victim's fiancee.
When baseball allegiances came up, the defendants began taunting victim Robert Steele, telling him White Sox fans had missing teeth and hurling other insults, police said. The taunting eventually turned into a physical altercation in which Steele was knocked to the ground and kicked in the face with a steel-toed boot, police said.
Steele, who was hospitalized for several days, has since been fitted for a glass eye.
Boguslaw Czapla now faces charges of aggravated battery and mob action. If convicted, he would face a maximum five years in prison.
Jaroslaw Czapla and Trojnar are charged with mob action and battery. If found guilty, they would face up to three years in prison.
The Czaplas, who are free on bond, declined to comment through their attorneys Tuesday.
They are scheduled to return to court Oct. 7 for a pretrial status hearing.
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