Legal Question in Criminal Law in Illinois

As an identical twin, how can I be found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt?

I am an identical twin. Both my brother and I were

charged with the felony distribution of a controlled

substance in Illinois, but in different counties. We

were both set up by the same confidential

informant, and both of our cases were handled by

the West Central Illinois Task Force. As it turned

out, the task force falsely accused my brother (he

passed a polygraph) and his charges were later

dismissed. Now, as my trial proceeds, I ask: How

can any prosecutor prove me guilty beyond a

reasonable doubt (No cops as eye-witnesses, no

prior record, this is the only charge against me)?

Does the task force's previous blunder make their

case against me less provable?


Asked on 1/22/01, 4:05 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
David Shestokas Shestokas, & Associates

Re: As an identical twin, how can I be found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt?

Certainly, in the context of a trial, there are many issues that you can bring up. It might even be possible that your twin could testify regarding related events, and surely the identification of the informant is doubtful. Without complete knowledge of your entire case, a more detailed opinion is impossible, but you appear to have the probability of a strong defense.

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Answered on 2/15/01, 8:47 am


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