Opinion ID: 2156002
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 8

Heading: conclusion

Text: For the reasons expressed in this opinion, we hold it was reversible error for the State to have been permitted to use the prior statements of its witness Leslie Bea as substantive evidence against defendant when the witness refused to testify at trial based on his fifth amendment privilege not to incriminate himself. The prior statements of the witness failed to meet the requirements of subsections (a) and (b) of section 115-10.1 and were inadmissible and prejudicial hearsay which denied defendant a fair trial. Because of our disposition of this case, we need not consider the remaining issues alleged by defendant to have been error. Defendant's convictions are reversed and his sentences are vacated. We remand this cause to the circuit court of Cook County to be assigned for a new trial. Convictions reversed; sentences vacated; cause remanded.