People v. Wise

This case presents question as to whether govt. proved beyond reasonable doubt charge of unlawful possession of weapon by felon under section 24-1.1(a) of Criminal Code, where record showed that defendant was aware that gun was in vehicle, and where gun was hidden in glove five to ten feet from defendant. Appellate Court, in vacating defendant’s conviction, found that govt. failed to make required showing that gun was “on or about” defendant’s person. In its petition for leave to appeal, govt. argued that defendant had at least constructive possession of gun, where defendant had exclusive control over entire vehicle. (Dissent filed.)