McLean County man charged with harassing jurors in his domestic violence trial

Posted on February 10, 2022

McLean County Law and Justice Center — *The McLean County Jail reported Abdullah posted $15,000 cash bail and was released Wednesday evening. He was ordered to appear in court for his arraignment February 25. (WJBC file photo)*

BLOOMINGTON – McLean County prosecutors contend a Heyworth man on trial for domestic battery went to extraordinary and illegal lengths to convince a jury that he’s not guilty.

Prosecutors on Wednesday filed 14 charges, 13 of them felonies, against Steve Abdullah.

Authorities say Abdullah and his wife, who is the alleged victim in the domestic violence case, yelled at jurors and held up signs when they came back for a second day of deliberations on Tuesday. The day before, jurors indicated they might be deadlocked in that case.

Abdullah’s wife reportedly told jurors that her husband was innocent, and that she hit him first.

One of the jurors reported Abdullah went so far as to post his business cards in the courthouse elevator.

Prosecutors said Abdullah told authorities he “needed to get his side out” even though he testified at trial.

The judge declared a mistrial, and prosecutors filed new charges including juror harassment, alleging Abdullah’s actions may have caused mental anguish or emotional distress.

Abdullah’s attorney Michael Malin said his client plans to plead not guilty, claiming Abdullah did not intend to intimidate jurors.

The McLean County Jail reported Abdullah posted $15,000 cash bail and was released Wednesday evening. He was ordered to appear in court for his arraignment February 25.

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