Former Geneva doctor seeks different counsel
A former Geneva doctor accused of a 2012 sex assault and a sophisticated marijuana growing operation at his home is in search of a new attorney.
The attorneys for Mark G. Lewis, 56, of St. Charles, recently removed themselves from the case, records show.
"These irreconcilable differences have caused a breakdown in the attorney-client relationship and the attorneys believe they can no longer represent the defendant, and that it would be in (Lewis') best interests to seek new counsel," wrote Michael Krejci and Dean Kekos.
Lewis was charged in summer 2014 with the sex assault of a woman he knew at his home in November 2012. His medical license also was suspended at that time.
While out on bond, Lewis was arrested after authorities raided his home on the 0-99 block of Squire Lane in early May and said they seized more than 100 marijuana plants, nearly 26 pounds of processed cannabis and a handgun. The grow operation included high-tech lights and a carbon dioxide emitter, according to court records.
Lewis' bond on the sex assault case was revoked and authorities are trying to seize his home. He is next due in court July 22.
Lewis faces up to 30 years in prison if convicted in the sex assault case and up to 60 years on the drug case.
New fundraiser gains steam
Aurora Police are optimistic an annual June fundraiser called "ButterBurgers and Badges" at Culver's restaurants will be a boon to Illinois Special Olympics.
Aurora Police Officer Lisa Carter said officers helped raise $660 in a charity event last week in which officers worked for tips at the Culver's at 509 N. Route 59.
Carter said the tally does not include money raised by Culver's during the entire month of June; the company donated $1 for every Concrete Mixer dessert ordered last month.
Carter said even with short notice and limited volunteers the event was a success.
"It's statewide ... and Culver's has decided to do this every year," Carter said. "It will be much bigger next year."
Aurora police have raised more than $13,000 for Illinois Special Olympics this year.
Probation in ax chase
A Carpentersville man accused of chasing his 73-year-old elderly landlord with an ax recently pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two years of probation.
Christopher A. Pedersen, 62, of the 100 block of South Lincoln Avenue, was sentenced to probation and Treatment Alternative Court and ordered to pay $1,170 in fines by Kane County Judge Clint Hull, records show.
Pedersen was accused of chasing his landlord in May 2013 through a parking lot after a dispute over a rent check, police said. Pedersen also accused the landlord of stealing items from his apartment. The landlord escaped and called police.
If Petersen violates his probation for felony aggravated battery to a victim over 60, he could be resentenced to up to five years in prison.
hhitzeman@dailyherald.com