Woman pleads not guilty in Schaumburg hotel murder

An Elgin woman embroiled in murder charges stemming from her boyfriend's shooting at a Schaumburg hotel pleaded not guilty at a Tuesday arraignment in Cook County court.

Kristian Branch, 28, is charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder, attempted armed robbery, and aggravated battery related to a dispute at the Homestead Studio Suites Hotel March 16.

Branch and Mario C. Charles, whom relatives identified as her boyfriend, showed up at a hotel room occupied by four other people in the early morning hours, prosecutors said. One of those was Vicky West, an acquaintance of Branch's who knew West recently received money from a relative.

Charles, of Rockford, drew a gun and along with Branch demanded money, authorities said. A 26-year man in the room also pulled a weapon and as shots rang out, Charles, 29, was hit several times. He fled with Branch and died later from his wounds.

The 26-year-old man was shot also and Branch was hit in the foot. Her actions set in motion the chain of events leading to Charles' death, prosecutors said.

Defense attorneys, however, contend they'll be able to disprove both the murder and the robbery allegations.

Wearing a blue prison jumpsuit, Branch told Judge Thomas Fecarotta she understood the charges filed against her. Emotional family members and friends were on hand in the Rolling Meadows courtroom to share a brief glance with Branch as she was led out.

Branch has a history of arrests including charges for prostitution, manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance, battery, resisting arrest and criminal damage to property.

Branch is being held on $3 million bond. Her next court date is May 25.