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Homeless Chicago man gets six months for flipping off judge

By Carolyn Rusin
Chicago Tribune

CHICAGO — A homeless McHenry County man in trouble with the law will have a roof over his head for the next six months after making an obscene gesture to the judge who was trying to decide how high to set his bail.

“He flipped off the judge,” said McHenry County State’s Attorney Lou Bianchi. “I think he’s got a serious anger-management problem.”

Kane Kellet, 24, had appeared Saturday before McHenry County Circuit Judge G. Martin Zopp on home invasion and battery charges.

Kellet was accused of attacking two acquaintances last month -- a woman, 21, and her male roommate, 23, of Crystal Lake. After beating the man with a flashlight, police said, Kellet broke away from officers trying to arrest him.

The hearing had already gotten off to a bad start, when Zopp asked if Kellet had an attorney. Kellet uttered a four-letter response that was even less polite than the bird.

Assistant State’s Attorney Patrick Kenneally suggested that Zopp wash out Kellet’s mouth with a contempt citation -- and six months in jail. The judge obliged.

“It’s our position to uphold that those appearing before a judge be very respectful,” Bianchi said. “I hope this sends a message.”

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