Scannell testifies in misconduct trial

Cook County Attorney Tim Scannell, accused of sexual misconduct testified in his own defense yesterday and will be cross examined today.

Scannell is charged with two counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct for an alleged inappropriate relationship with a 17-year-old girl. Scannell said Wednesday in St. Louis County Court that he developed feelings for the girl in 2012. He admitted he kissed the girl multiple times but didn't intentionally touch her in a sexual way. He also said he thought she was too young.

According to WTIP’s Martha Marnocha, defense attorney Joseph Tamburino began his questioning of Scannell with a long recap of events leading up to the girl's family seeking a restraining order against Scannell to stop the relationship.

Tamburino included details of the courthouse shooting of Scannell in December of 2011 by Daniel Schlienz, his hospitalization, rocky recovery, subsequent PTSD, breakdown and treatment in an Arizona rehabilitation facility.

Prosecutor Thomas Heffelfinger interrupted Tamburino with objections for “excessive recollecting.” He also objected several times to Scannell’s “rambling” testimony. From the beginning Scannell alternately cried and appeared aggressive during testimony, he was animated and frequently went off topic.

Scannell's attorney says his client acted inappropriately but not criminally. Today Heffelfinger will cross-examine Scannell and the case could go to the jury this afternoon.