Bradley, IL – Felony charges have now been formally filed in the highly publicized assault case stemming from an incident at Mac Franks bar, following weeks of investigation and evidence review, according to Kankakee County State’s Attorney Jim Rowe.
According to the State’s Attorney’s Office, the case was submitted by the Bradley Police Department on January 2 after a suspect was confirmed in connection with the December 24, 2025 incident. Detectives continued gathering evidence through January 5, at which point misdemeanor battery charges were initially approved against Nicholas Monacelli while felony charges remained pending further review.
On January 12, investigators submitted additional evidence, including medical records, to establish proof of great bodily harm — a required element for felony battery charges under Illinois law. That evidence was reviewed the following day, and felony charges were approved and formally filed on January 14.
Monacelli is now charged with three counts of aggravated battery, all Class 3 felonies; one count of hate crime, a Class 4 felony; and two counts of battery, Class A misdemeanors. According to prosecutors, the felony counts will be presented for indictment at the next scheduled grand jury.
Rowe emphasized that the investigation remains active, noting that his office and Bradley police communicated frequently — often daily — and that prosecutors reviewed the case file more than 65 times to ensure accountability for every individual involved.
In addition to the criminal case, the State’s Attorney’s Office expects the Village of Bradley’s liquor commissioner to initiate proceedings that could result in suspension or revocation of Mac Franks’ liquor and business licenses.
Rowe also addressed broader concerns about Illinois hate crime laws, noting that current sentencing statutes often discourage prison sentences for Class 3 and Class 4 felonies. He said legislation to strengthen hate crime penalties is expected to be reintroduced during the upcoming legislative session.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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