Stuckert grants state request during Curl hearing Thursday

Presiding Judge Robbin Stuckert granted a state request at a status hearing Thursday that a prior complaint of criminal sexual abuse by the DeKalb man accused of killing NIU student Antinette “Toni” Keller be allowed for discussion at trial.

In 1995, William “Billy” Curl, 35, allegedly made unwanted sexual advances by kissing and fondling a young woman’s breasts in the bathroom of a house before the woman was able to leave, Stuckert said. The woman was allegedly under 21 and was under the influence of alcohol at the time. The woman never pursued any charges against Curl for the incident.

Regina Harris, head public defender and Curl’s defense attorney, said Jayne Braden, a licensed clinical psychologist is currently preparing a report on Curl that she is hoping to have ready by next week. Braden evaluated Curl in Feb. 2011 and deemed he was psychologically fit for trial. Braden could potentially be an expert witness used by Curl’s defense, during trial. However, Harris said the report may or may not have any bearing during the trial.

Keller was last seen Oct. 14, 2010, when friends said she went to Prairie Park near NIU. Her burned remains were found two days later.

Curl is schedule to go to trial on June 11, after jury selection. Keller was last seen Oct. 14, 2010, when she told friends she intended to take a walk in Prairie Park. Burned remains were found in the park two days later, and it took forensic analysts about a week to determine they were human.

Curl faces charges on five counts of first-degree murder, one count of concealing a homicidal death, one count of arson and one count of criminal sexual assault. Curl is currently being held in the DeKalb County Jail on more than $5 million bond.

Stuckert will continue addressing pre-trial motions at a status hearing on Thursday.