Man guilty in beating at birthday party

A 39-year-old man has been found guilty of aggravated battery and mob action in connection with the beating of another man at a 2-year-old child's birthday party in Huntley two years ago.

Jurors deliberated for about two hours Thursday before reaching their verdict against Boguslaw “Bob” Czapla, 39, formerly of Elmwood Park.

Prosecutors said Czapla kicked 34-year-old Robert Steele in the face with his metal-tipped cowboy boot, causing him to lose his eye during an alcohol-fueled argument in a relative's garage on July 19, 2008.

Czapla and Steele, who are brothers-in-law, started arguing over the Cubs and White Sox, and after Czapla made a rude comment about Steele's children, according to Steele's testimony this week.

Czapla faces probation, or two to five years in jail for the more serious aggravated battery charge, according to the McHenry County State's Attorney's office.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Dec. 15.

Czapla's attorney, Jim McAuliff, said he could file a motion for a new trial, depending on what happens at sentencing.

“Obviously (Czapla) was very disappointed in the verdict. We will be looking at all options,” McAuliff said.

Czapla was one of three men charged with attacking Steele.

Last year, Czapla's brother, Jaroslaw F. “Jerry” Czapla of Huntley, pleaded guilty to mob action and was sentenced to six months in jail. He also paid Steele $100,000 in an insurance settlement.

The other man charged in the beating, Maciej Trojnar of Elmwood Park, remains a fugitive, according to McHenry County court records.