By: Liz Lape
PEORIA, Ill. (25 News) – The attorney representing the owner of downtown Peoria’s Riverview Plaza will remain on the case as the City of Peoria continues its lawsuit over alleged building code violations.
According to 25 News, attorney Thomas Leiter, who had previously sought to withdraw from representing building owner MJ Illinois LLC, told a Peoria County judge Thursday that he will continue representing the company. Chicago attorney Stephen Pholand also entered an appearance on behalf of the owner.
The city is seeking millions of dollars in fines, alleging the owners have failed to correct ongoing safety violations at the 20-story building, which has remained closed since February 2024. During previous court testimony, city officials said the building’s fire alarm and sprinkler systems remain inoperable, and inspectors reported finding evidence that people had been living inside the building.
The court also addressed whether the building’s owner, who lives in South Korea, would require an interpreter during future proceedings. Leiter told the judge he does not believe one will be necessary after previous communication issues were resolved with assistance from the owner’s family.
The case is scheduled to continue Friday in Peoria County Court as the city continues presenting evidence in support of its request for fines against MJ Illinois LLC.
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