'Sun-Times' Columnist Steinberg Charged With Domestic Battery

Chicago Sun-Times columnist Neil Steinberg was arrested and charged with domestic battery after allegedly striking his wife, the newspaper reported Saturday.

Steinberg writes editorials and a thrice-weekly column for the Sun-Times. His column did not appear in Friday's paper. A note said he was "taking the day off." Steinberg also writes a column for the New York Sunday News.

Steinberg was arrested late Wednesday at his Northbrook, Ill., home, according to the story by staff reporter Shamus Toomey.

The story quoted a Northbrook police officer as saying Steinberg was charged with domestic battery and also with interfering with the reporting of domestic battery, for allegedly taking a phone away from his wife to prevent her calling the police.

After appearing in court Thursday, Steinberg was released on his own recognizance on the two misdemeanor charges, according to police.

The story quoted the police officer as saying Steinberg's wife of 15 years had a visual injury, but did not require hospitalization.

"I'm deeply humiliated to have brought this misfortune on my family, and am eager to do what is necessary to set it right," Steinberg told the Sun-Times Friday.

The paper quoted Steinberg as saying he had been drinking before the incident, and will enter alcohol counseling Monday.

"We hope for the best for Neil and his family," said Sun-Times Editor John Barron.