Chicago, IL — A 24-year-old man was found guilty of three counts of aggravated battery for an attack on a man that left him blind and paralyzed. The incident occurred on July 24, 2009 outside of a bar in Mokena. Eric Bartels and his best friend’s sister were waiting for a ride outside the bar when she made a comment about Joseph Messina’s bloodstained white T-shirt with a graphic design popular with mixed-martial-arts fans. Next thing she knew, Messina became angry and punched Bartel with such force it left him with massive brain injuries. He now has to live with his mother in her Tinley Park home. Messina was celebrating his 21st birthday at the bar. Now he could face anywhere from probation to up to five years in prison. His sentencing will be on March 6. If you have been charged with assault and battery, contact a Chicago assault and battery defense attorney to review your case.
