The attorney representing a Viola man in a child porn investigation, has filed an objection to WRMJ’s request for extended media coverage. Extended media coverage allows for cameras and microphones in the courtroom. The objection was filed today in Mercer County Circuit Court by James Eric Haley’s attorney—David Morrison of Rock Island. The 44 year old Haley was arrested earlier this month following a search warrant executed at his home. He is facing a single Class X felony, one Class 2 felony and 14 Class 1 felonies. The case involves one victim–a 15 year old girl with alleged offenses occurring in 2014 and 2015. Class X felonies are punishable by 6-to-30 years in prison upon conviction with Class 1 felonies carrying a 4-to-15 year term and Class 2 felonies punishable by 3-to-7 years in prison. A preliminary hearing is set for Sept. 3 in Mercer County Circuit Court. Haley remains in custody on $500,000 bond.
