Crystal Lake bar sued over brawl

A Fox River Grove man stabbed during an altercation outside a Crystal Lake tavern last year is now suing the bar and its owner, claiming his assailants' intoxication is partially to blame for the attack.

The suit, filed by Darryl L. Burkett Jr. last week in McHenry County Circuit Court, seeks at least $50,000 in damages from Suds R' Us and owner David Brinsko for the injuries he suffered in the Dec. 7, 2006, incident.

According to the suit, the accused attackers became inebriated while drinking in the bar, causing them to attack Burkett during a later fracas in its parking lot.

Also suing the tavern is Jason Premas, a Crystal Lake man who was alongside Burkett during the altercation.

The suit alleges Premas was struck over the head with a bottle during the incident and, like Burkett's, his suit claims the bar bears some of the responsibility for his injuries.

Both men also are suing their accused assailants: Aaron J. Averkamp, 25, of Wonder Lake, Keith Bounds, 27, of Woodstock, and Rudy Saldana, 27, of Wonder Lake. He is seeking at least $50,000 in damages from each.

The three men are scheduled to face trial Jan. 28 on aggravated battery, mob action and other charges stemming from the incident.

Official wins award:

Congratulations to McHenry County Sheriff's Capt. David Shepherd, who last week received a prestigious award for his efforts during a management training program.

Shepherd, one of the highest-ranking members of the sheriff's department, won the Highest Award for Achievement after completing the 12-week Dale Carnegie Course on Effective Communication and Human Relations.

The recognition is awarded to the course participant who, in the opinion of his or her peers, best exemplifies the standards, qualities and principles of the program.