Prosecutor: Additional witnesses saw Double J Hug punch in Joliet

JOLIET – A special prosecutor expects to determine by next month whether a man will face charges for allegedly hitting a Joliet City Council member at a bar earlier this year.

Mark Koenig, a Joliet real estate broker, was arrested and charged with misdemeanor battery after he hit Larry Hug on March 31 at the Double J Sports Bar, 1001 Essington Road in Joliet. Video released in April by police shows Hug taking at least two blows with an open hand.

But criminal charges against Koenig have not been filed in Will County Court.

"I learned from social media of additional witnesses who were not identified that night and have reached out to Joliet police to interview those witnesses," Special Prosecutor Dave Neal said Tuesday.

Neal has been assigned to prosecute the case after the Will County State's Attorney's Office cited a potential conflict. Will County Board member Annette Parker and her husband, Brian Parker, a county employee, were present during the altercation.

Hug has said he and Koenig began arguing about the Rialto Square Theatre management. Hug at times has criticized Rialto management at council meetings and urged cuts in funding provided by the city. Annette Parker works at the Rialto.

"After those interviews [are done] we will make a final decision whether it's appropriate to file charges," Neal said.

He expects that will be done before the case is called for review Aug. 11.

Carlos Tinoco, who was also in the bar that night, said in April that Hug insulted Marines and Koenig, whose father is a veteran, took offense. Tinoco operates a sign company that provides signs for Koenig's company.