For now, a Streator man accused of shooting at a police officer during a drug bust a few months ago is representing himself. Courtney Perkins argued in favor of lowering his bond, with some success, today. Judge H. Chris Ryan dropped it from $4 million to $3 million. Perkins would have to post 10% of it to get out. Perkins could get up to 100 years in prison for attempted murder, aggravated discharge of a firearm, and delivery of a controlled substance.
The 20-year old Perkins said he has family in the area, is too young to rent a car, and isn’t a flight risk. Prosecutor Matt Kidder said Perkins committed the crime while on probation for robbery and the public has to be protected. Kidder also said the prison time Perkins faces could motivate him to flee.
Perkins also said the $4 million bond is a burden on his socio-economic status. Judge H. Chris Ryan said bond is set to guarantee a defendant shows up for court and to protect society, not to punish someone for being poor.
Twenty-six year old Alaina Cravatta is charged with delivery of a controlled substance and aggravated discharge of firearm in connection with the case. Her next court date is next month. Perkins is scheduled for trial the week of February 27th. He said in court today, he intends to ask to move the case to another county.