On April 26th, 2026, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Neil J. McClanahan, age 49, of Thawville. According to police reports, McClanahan was wanted on two outstanding Iroquois County warrants charging him with aggravated driving under the influence and driving while license revoked. Deputies made contact with McClanahan, and he was taken into custody. McClanahan was eventually transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he awaits his next court date.

 

On April 27th , 2026, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Randy S. Dillon, age 43, of Danville. According to police reports, Dillon was being held at the Vermilion County Jail on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant for failure to appear on the original charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. Dillon was transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where he was later released with a notice to appear.

 

On April 27th , 2026, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Nicholas J. Nunamaker, age 36, of Kankakee. According to police reports, Nunamaker was found at the Iroquois County Courthouse. Nunamaker was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging him with residential burglary. Nunamaker was escorted to the Iroquois County Jail, where he was later released with a notice to appear.

 

On April 27th , 2026, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Kylen O. Wells, age 26, of Beaverville. According to police reports, Wells was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant for failure to appear on the original charge of criminal trespass to land. Deputies made contact with Wells. He was taken into custody and also charged with resisting a peace officer. Wells was transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where he awaits his next court date.

 

On April 27th , 2026, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Heather N. Scott, age 25, of Milford. According to police reports, deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Scott for traffic violations. Scott did not initially stop for deputies. After finally stopping, Scott was taken into custody and charged with fleeing/attempting to elude a peace officer, driving while license suspended, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and child restraint violation under 8. Scott was transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where she was later released with a notice to appear.

 

On April 28th , 2026, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Justin R. Kuehne, age 49, of Kankakee. According to police reports, deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for suspicion of burglary. Kuehne was found to be the driver. Through the course of their investigation, deputies located burglary tools and suspected methamphetamine. Kuehne was taken into custody and charged with burglary to a building, two counts of criminal damage to property, possession of burglary tools, and possession of methamphetamine less than 5 grams. Kuehne was transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where he awaits his next court date.

 

On April 28th , 2026, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Cara D. Wheeler, age 47, of Kankakee. According to police reports, deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for suspicion of burglary. Wheeler was found to be a passenger. Through the course of their investigation, deputies located burglary tools and suspected methamphetarnine. Wheeler was taken into custody and charged with burglary to a building, two counts of criminal damage to property, possession of burglary tools, and possession of methamphetamine less than 5 grams. Wheeler was transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where she was later released with a notice to appear.

 

On April 28th , 2026, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Michael J. Ashley Jr., age 34, of Bradley. According to police reports, deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for suspicion of burglary. Ashley was found to be a passenger. Through the course of their investigation, deputies located burglary tools and suspected methamphetamine. Ashley was taken into custody and charged with burglary to a building, two counts of criminal damage to property, possession of burglary tools, and possession of methamphetamine less than 5 grams. Ashley was transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where he was later released with a notice to appear.

On April 22nd, 2026, Annabelle L. Gordon, age 23, turned herself into the Iroquois County Jail. According to police reports, Gordon was wanted on an Iroquois County warrant, charging her with failing to appear for domestic battery, and failing to appear for expired registration. Gordon was released with a notice to appear.

 

On April 23rd, 2026, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Dawn D. Williams, age 49, of Thawville. According to police reports, Willams was wanted on a Kankakee County warrant, charging her with possession of a controlled substance. Willams was taken into custody and transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where she was later released on a notice to appear.

 

On April 23rd, 2026, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Megan A. Green, age 32, of Kankakee. According to police reports, Green was wanted on an Iroquois County warrant for driving while license suspended. Green was taken into custody and transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where she was later released on time served.

 

On April 24th , 2026, Jeffery A. Shives, age 47, of Chatsworth, turned himself into the Iroquois County Jail. According to police reports, Shives was sentenced to 10 days in the Iroquois County Jail, for the charge of driving while license revoked.

Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency was notified by the US National Weather Service’s (NWS) Chicago office that a third tornado has been confirmed to have touched down in Iroquois County during the severe weather outbreak that occurred during the storms Friday night, April 17th.

 

After further review by the NWS of previous data and damage assessment by Iroquois County EMA, the damage that was sustained from Woodland- extending northeast to south of Watseka, has been designated as an EF-0 tornado.

 

The storm damage path through Watseka is still being reviewed as satellite imaging is being looked over. Currently the damage is being designated as straight line wind damage.

 

Iroquois County residents are also being advised to keep weather aware on Monday as the potential for severe weather will once again be in our area. Be prepared for multiple waves of severe weather possible throughout the day, during the evening, and into the overnight hours. These predicted storms may contain high winds, large damaging hail and the possibility for tornadoes exist.

 

As we always recommend, please have multiple ways to receive severe weather alerts. Having multiple sources to receive emergency weather warnings is critical because no single system is guaranteed to reach you every time. Power outages, poor cell service, or simply being asleep can cause you to miss an alert if you rely on only one method. Using a combination of tools—such as National Weather Service alerts, NOAA Weather Radios, Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA), the Regroup app, and local media—helps ensure you receive timely warnings no matter the situation, giving you more time to take action and stay safe.

 

Scott Anderson, Director

Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency

Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency was notified by the US National Weather Service’s (NWS) Chicago office that a second tornado has been confirmed to have touched down during the severe weather outbreak that occurred Friday night (04/17).

 

After further review of data and site visits by the damage assessment team from the NWS, the damage that was surveyed at the Knauth Farm outside of Milford has been designated as a tornado, and as the path continued east into Darrow, the tornado sheared fairly new power poles off at the base just south of US Highway 24 near Effner, at the Newton County, Indiana, line. The strength of the wind required to fell the poles in that way earned the tornado an EF-2 rating. The tornado continued into Newton County.

 

As future data is received and analyzed and as further in person damage assessments are made, other areas of damage may also be designated as tornadoes. Updates and subsequent press releases may be issued as needed.

 

 

Scott Anderson, Director

Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency

Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency is working with the US National Weather Service’s (NWS) Chicago office to identify potential tornadoes within areas of damage that occurred following the severe line of storms that occurred Friday night (04/17).

 

Earlier Friday afternoon a damaging line of storms was identified, and the NWS issued a tornado watch for Iroquois County at 3:31 pm that would expire at 11:00 pm. Late Friday evening, a severe squall line- capable of producing both tornadoes and damaging straight line winds, was headed for all areas within Iroquois County and this prompted the NWS to issue a severe thunderstorm warning for the western half of the county at 9:05 pm. As this line continued to move east, there were significant areas of embedded circulation identified, and the NWS issued a tornado warning at 9:15 pm for the western half of the county. This was significantly earlier than the storm was due to pass into the area, but the NWS decided to issue the warning at that time to prepare the residents and to keep them informed. The sirens were sounded by ICOM dispatch in the western half of the county- per EMA protocol, at the time of the warning. This combination was to make sure residents were aware of the approaching dangerous situation. As the line began to pass through the county, the NWS issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the eastern half of the county at 9:46 pm. No tornado warning was issued by the NWS for the eastern half of the county. As the severe winds hit Watseka, EMA Director Anderson gave the order to sound the sirens for the eastern half of the county, including Watseka. Due to the very rapid eastward pace of the line of winds, along with the time it takes the ICOM dispatch center to activate all the sirens on the eastern half, the Watseka sirens sounded just after the severe winds passed through. The sounding of the sirens on the east side of the county were not only for the line of severe wind, but they were for what very easily could have been for an imbedded tornado within the front as it passed through.

 

Significant damage within the county was reported, and the NWS confirmed that an EF-1 rated tornado was responsible for the destruction in the Buckley area. Members of the Paxton ERS assisted EMA with spotting duties as well as damage assessment in the Buckley area. Heavy damage was also reported in Woodland, with outbuildings, trees and power poles knocked down or destroyed. For the second time in a year, the Knauth farm in Milford suffered significant damage to their cattle buildings and trees, but no animals were harmed. The City of Watseka had a concentrated area of major tree damage, all on the southeast quadrant of the city. The severe line exited the county and continued its path of damage into Kentland, Indiana. Other areas of damage within the county may be reported later, The NWS will continue to receive other data and may update the severity level of the storm track within the next few days.

 

No injuries were reported with any of the weather-related incidents. No residential structures were reported to have been destroyed. Several outbuildings or grain storage structures were identified as significantly damaged or destroyed within the areas of this report.

 

Scott Anderson, Director

Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency

The Iroquois County Sheriffs Office has arrested and charged 22-year-old Jason L. Ruiz of Watseka, ll. with first-degree murder and aggravated battery in connection with the death of his one-month-old son, Jace.

On April 10, 2026, Watseka Fire and EMS were dispatched to 1631 N Blue Bell Bend Rd in rural Watseka in reference to a 3-week-old baby not breathing. The infant, later identified as Jace, was transported from the scene to Iroquois Memorial Hospital and later to Lurie Children's Hospital in Chicago, ll. Jace was pronounced deceased on 4/13/26.

Jason Ruiz was taken into custody in Chicago, ll. on 4/16/26, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshal Great Lakes Fugitive Task Force.

The investigation remains active. Out of respect for the ongoing legal proceedings and the victim's family, no additional information will be released at this time.

On April 12th, 2026, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Sundav L. Pettigrew, age 25, of Urbana. According to police reports, Pettigrew was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging him with failure to appear for driving while license suspended. Pettigrew was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he was later released with a notice to appear.

 

On April 13th, 2026, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Angelica Q. Simpson, age 37, of Chicago. According to police reports, Simpson was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging her with possession of a controlled substance. Simpson was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where she was later released with a notice to appear.

 

On April 13th, 2026, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Zachary C. Kalb, age 39, of Chebanse. According to police reports, Kalb was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging him with theft over $500 and driving under the influence of alcohol. Kalb was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he was later released with a notice to appear.

The Watseka Police Department has recently received numerous reports of damage to utility trailers across the city in which the wiring is being cut and the copper wire stolen.  Additionally, it was reported to Ameren CIPS today that several utility poles in the area of N. Jefferson St. and W. North St. had the copper ground wires removed from them overnight.

 

If observed, the police department reminds you to please call 911 and report any suspicious activity immediately.

Jenna Strouble, the St. John, Indiana, woman who is accused of the March shooting deaths of her boyfriend, Jacob Lambert, and his mother and stepfather, Stacy and Patrick Forde, pleaded not guilty Friday in a Will County courtroom.

Strouble has been charged with nine counts of first-degree murder in the March 23 killings of the Crete Township family, which prosecutors say she had “no real motive for other than a general dislike for them.”

 

Lambert was the father of Strouble’s two children, aged 4 and 3, and she expressed “frustration” both with how he communicated with her and how he talked to the children, according to prosecutors.

Lambert allegedly confessed to the shootings to Will County sheriff’s police, according to prosecutors.

Lambert’s body was found lying face down on the passenger seat of a car parked outside his family’s house with a gunshot wound to the head when police conducted a wellness check at the residence, sheriff’s police said.

Police reported that Patrick Forde was found near the front door of the home with multiple gunshot wounds to his chest and abdomen.

Stacy Forde was found behind her husband on the stairs, also with multiple gunshot wounds to her torso, sheriff’s police said.

About 2 a.m. on March 23, sheriff’s deputies responded to the incident on Norway Trail in Crete Township.

Strouble’s sister reported receiving a call from Strouble, who told her she had shot Lambert and his parents, according to prosecutors.

Officers on March 24 found Strouble in her St. John, Indiana, residence, and she handed them a bag containing a loaded Glock 19 handgun fitted with a suppressor, according to prosecutors.

In court on Friday, Strouble’s attorney, David Drwencke, waived a hearing of the indictment against his client and entered a plea of not guilty, while Strouble stood silently in handcuffs at his side.

Strouble did not address Judge Amy Christiansen directly.

The next pre-trial hearing is slated for April 20.

Initial discovery for the prosecution is due on April 24, with initial discovery for the defense expected by May 8.

On April 5th, 2026, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Amanda L. Cunningham, age 39, of Kentland IN. According to police reports, deputies conducted a traffic stop in the area of Lincoln and Hamilton in Iroquois on a vehicle being driven by Cunningham for traffic violations. Cunningham was taken in to custody and charged with operating an uninsured motor vehicle and methamphetamine possession less than 5 grams. Cunningham was transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where she was later released on a notice to appear.

On April 5th, 2026, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Corey A. Renwick, age 23, of Momence. According to police reports, Renwick was wanted on several Kankakee County warrants, charging him with unlawful restraint, aggravated assault, and four counts of driving while license revoked. Deputies located Renwick in the 300 block of north second street where he was taken into custody. Renwick was transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where he was later released to Kankakee County.

On April 7th , 2026, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Noel L. Swartz, age 30, of Gilman. According to police reports, deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle being driven by Swartz for traffic violations in rural Milford. During the duration of the stop, Swartz showed signs of impairment. Swartz was taken into custody and charged with driving while under the influence of drugs or combination of drugs. Swartz was transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where she was later released on a notice to appear.

On April 7th, 2026, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Jose A. Andrade, age 35, of Onarga. According to police reports, Deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle being driven by Andrade in the 100 block of north second street. Andrade was taken into custody and charged with driving while license revoked. Andrade was transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where he was later released on a notice to appear.

The Bradley Police Department requested the Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 1 to investigate an officer involved shooting.

 

On April 8, 2026, at approximately 12:46 p.m., Bradley Police Department officers responded to a well-being check in the 600 block of Jonette Avenue in Bradley. ? The officers encountered a male armed with a bladed weapon. ? The suspect reportedly disobeyed officers’ orders to stop and continued to advance on the officers, at which time the officers discharged their weapons striking the suspect. ? The officers rendered aid until EMS arrived on scene. ? The suspect was transported to an area hospital and pronounced deceased. No officers were injured. ? ?

 

ISP Special Agents will complete a thorough, timely, and independent investigation, and once complete, the case will be turned over to the Kankakee County State’s Attorney for review. ? The investigation is active and ongoing, and no additional information is available at this time. 

On March 23, at 3:35 p.m., the Watseka Police Department was dispatched to the intersection of S 3rd Street/W Walnut Street for a disturbance. According to reports, Wood, Brandon J., 42 of Watseka, was arrested for Disorderly Conduct and Aggravated Assault. Wood was transported to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

 

On March 31, at 8:13 a.m., the Watseka Police Department was dispatched to the 300 block of E Elm Street for a disturbance. According to reports, Gillespie, Kyle J., 32 of Watseka was arrested for Aggravated Domestic Battery and Resisting Arrest. Perez-Gutierrez, Bobbie J., 38 of Watseka was also arrested for Assault. Gillespie and Perez-Gutierrez were both transported separately to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

 

On April 3, at 4:44 a.m., the Watseka Police Department was dispatched to the 200 block of E Fairman Avenue for a disturbance. Frye, Katelynn M., 32 of Watseka, was arrested for an outstanding Iroquois County Warrant. Frye was transported to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

 

On April 3, at 2:33 p.m., the Watseka Police Department was dispatched to the 500 block of W Walnut Street for a trespasser. Barrone, Barry D., 38 of Watseka, was arrested for Criminal Trespass to Property. Barrone was transported to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

 

On April 3, at 4:18 p.m., the Watseka Police Department was dispatched to the 800 block of E Walnut Street for a fight in progress. According to reports, Tucker, Christopher M., 43 of Watseka, was arrested for Aggravated Battery and Disorderly Conduct. Tucker was transported to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

 

On April 3, at 6:22 p.m., the Watseka Police Department was dispatched to the 100 block of W Oak Street for a male subject trying to fight people. According to reports officers located the suspect in the alley near the 200 block of S 2nd Street. Baker, David L., 44 of Watseka, was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine. Baker was transported to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

 

On April 5, at 8:51 a.m., the Watseka Police Department was dispatched to the 400 block of N 8th Street for a domestic. According to reports, Chavez, Eduardo J., 33 of Watseka, was arrested for Domestic Battery. Additionally, Torres, Erica G., 43 of Watseka, was arrested for an outstanding Kankakee County Warrant. Both subjects were transported separately to the Iroquois County Jail.

On March 19, at 8:31 a.m., the Watseka Police Department were dispatched to the 100 block of W Division Street for a domestic battery. According to police reports Amanda A. Temen-Wilkey, 36, of Watseka was arrested for aggravated domestic battery. Temen-Wilkey was transported to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

 

On March 21, at 9:24 p.m., the Watseka Police Department conducted a warrant check in the 500 block of N 5th Street. Katlynne M. Long, 32 of Watseka, was arrested on an outstanding Iroquois County Warrant. Long was transported to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

 

On March 23, at 8:18 a.m., the Watseka Police Department conducted a warrant check in the 100 block of E Ash Street. Billy J. Stevens, 45 of Watseka, was arrested on an outstanding Livingston County Warrant. Stevens was transported to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

 

On March 23, at 11:27 p.m., the Watseka Police Department conducted a traffic stop at W North Street/N Wabash Street on a vehicle with no registration. According to police reports the driver, Jeremia R. Albright, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine. Additionally, Albright was issued three state citations for driving revoked, no valid registration, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Alrbight was transported to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

 Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 1 Special Agents arrested 34-year-old Timothy M. Kleinert of Momence, IL for Unlawful Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material (Class 2 Felony), Dissemination of Child Sexual Abuse Material Depicting Victims Under 13 (Class X Felony), and Dissemination of Child Sexual Abuse Material - Video Depiction (Class X Felony). ?

 

In October of 2025, ISP Special Agents received an online tip and began an extensive investigation into the possession of child sexual abuse materials in Kankakee County. Special Agents identified Kleinert as the suspect. On March 25, 2026, Officers executed a search warrant at Kleinert’s residence in the 100 block of Maple Street in Momence and collected electronic evidence. Kleinert was arrested on scene. ISP presented their case to the Kankakee County State’s Attorney’s Office, who approved the above-mentioned charges. Kleinert was held at the Kankakee County Jerome Combs Detention Center pending his first court appearance.

 

ISP provides resources for parents, for the public to report crimes against children, and for survivors to start their path towards healing and recovery. Anonymous tips of child sexual abuse materials can also be reported through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's (NCMEC) CyberTipline at www.cybertipline.com. To keep kids safe online, learn more at: https://illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/onlinesafe/; www.cybertipline.org; For resources for survivors of sexual abuse visit: https://www.missingkids.org/gethelpnow/csam-resour?ces/

 As Iroquois Federal and Servbank move toward the completion of the acquisition this month, Iroquois Federal Board Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Walter H. “Chip” Hasselbring III has been named to the Servbank Board of Directors.

Hasselbring’s appointment reflects the shared commitment of both organizations to strong governance, community leadership, and maintaining a meaningful local voice as the two institutions come together. With decades of experience serving customers and communities across central Illinois, Hasselbring will bring valuable perspective to Servbank’s board as the combined organization looks ahead.

“I am truly honored to join the Servbank Board of Directors and grateful for the trust placed in me during this important time,” said Walter H. ‘Chip’ Hasselbring III, Chairman and CEO of Iroquois Federal. “Iroquois Federal has always been deeply rooted in the communities we serve, and I look forward to bringing that local perspective to Servbank’s board. As we move forward together, I am committed to ensuring the voices of our customers, employees, and communities continue to be heard and represented at the highest level, while preserving the strong local leadership that has long defined Iroquois Federal.”

We are pleased to welcome Walter “Chip” Hasselbring III to the Servbank Board of Directors,” said Stavros Papastavrou, Board Chairman of Servbank. Mr. Hasselbring’s appointment to the Servbank board reflects our commitment to preserving strong local leadership and community connection,” said Papastavrou. “His longstanding dedication to customers, employees, and the communities served by Iroquois Federal adds an important perspective as we continue building a strong, forward?looking organization together.

 

The acquisition brings together two organizations with Illinois roots and a shared focus on service, innovation, and long?term community impact.

Iroquois Federal Savings and Loan Association headquartered in Watseka , Illinois and Servbank, N.A. headquartered in Oswego, Illinois have entered into a definitive agreement under which Servbank, N.A. will acquire Iroquois Federal Savings and Loan Association. The transaction is expected to close on March 12, 2026. Until this transaction is completed, the institutions will continue to operate as separate, independent banks.

Servbank N.A. NMLS #203463. Equal Housing Lender. Member FDIC.

Iroquois Federal Savings and Loan Association NMLS #472172 . Equal Housing Lender. Member FDIC.

Due to the recent tornado and severe storms, KCC will be closed for the remainder of the week while crews assess damage and begin repairs. This includes the Riverfront Campus and Manufacturing and Industrial Technology Center (MITC) in Kankakee, North Extension Center in Bradley and South Extension Center in Watseka.

 

The Red Cross is currently operating a shelter on the Riverfront Campus. Anyone in the community who needs shelter is welcome there. 

 

Otherwise, for everyone’s safety, we ask that everyone stay away. It’s important to keep the area clear so assessment and repair teams can work safely.

 

We expect the Riverfront Campus to be fully operational by Monday, March 16.

On Feb. 25, at approximately 9:30 a.m., the Watseka Police Department conducted a warrant check in the 200 block of E Walnut Street. Smith, Kyle D., 34 of Watseka, was arrested on an outstanding Champaign County Warrant. Smith was additionally charged with Resisting Arrest. Smith was transported to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

 

On March 2, at approximately 11:04 p.m., the Watseka Police Department was conducting a business check in the 300 block of W Walnut Street. Barrone, Barry D., 38 of Watseka, was arrested for Retail Theft. Barrone was transported to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

 

On March 9, at approximately 6:16 p.m., the Watseka Police Department was dispatched to the 1000 block of W Newell Street for a criminal trespass to property. Roberts, Stephanie A., 42 of Gilman, was arrested for Criminal Trespass to Property, Criminal Damage to Property, and Battery. Roberts was transported to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

On March 9, at approximately 11:53 p.m., the Watseka Police Department conducted a traffic stop in the 400 block of E Walnut Street. The driver, Lewis, Terrell L., 32 of Milwaukee, Wisconsin was arrested for Driving While License Suspended and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. Lewis was transported to the Iroquois County Jail without incident.

Iroquois County EMA has received this information from Ameren: A scheduled power outage coming next week. Ameren crews are planning on having a necessary outage in Gilman to facilitate local system maintenance. There will be approximately 610 customers without electricity from:

9:00 p.m. Monday, March 9th

Until the following day-

Tuesday morning around 5 a.m. on March 10th

With it being a scheduled outage, affected customers should be getting an automated call from Ameren.

Iroquois County EMA recommends Individuals with medical devices that are dependent on electricity should be making alternate plans now. These plans should be occasionally tested to be sure the same capabilities exist in an emergency situation. This would be a good time to practice those capabilities.

The Watseka Family Festival Committee proudly presents the 2026 Watseka Family Festival—a two-day celebration of music, fun, and community spirit at the scenic Watseka American Legion Park, August 28-29! Enjoy an exciting concert lineup featuring acclaimed artists, along with a wide array of activities designed for the whole family. This year’s festival is set to create unforgettable memories for attendees of every generation.

 

Beyond the main stage, festivalgoers can look forward to a free kids’ fun zone, bustling craft and flea markets, a vibrant car show, a spirited 5K Run, a charming Baby Contest, a lively beer garden, a variety of food vendors, and much more. Admission to all non-concert activities is completely free, making this a welcoming event for the entire community.

 

Friday night, August 28th, opens with southern rock legends The Kentucky Headhunters. Renowned as “Southern Rock Royalty,” this GRAMMY-winning band boasts a career filled with accolades, including a CMA Album of the Year Award, two CMA Vocal Group of the Year Awards, two Top 10 albums, and four consecutive Top 40 hits. Their enduring success and genre-spanning sound promise an electrifying start to the festival.

 

Kicking off Friday night is Confederate Railroad, the southern rock powerhouse that burst onto the scene in the early ’90s. With more than 18 charting hits—including "Jesus and Mama," "Queen of Memphis," and “Trashy Women”—Confederate Railroad delivers rowdy country energy and authentic emotion that will fire up the crowd.

 

Saturday, August 29th, brings country music sensation Rodney Atkins to center stage. With six No. 1 singles, eight Top 5 hits, and a staggering 3.8 billion career streams, Atkins is celebrated for beloved anthems such as “Farmer’s Daughter,” “These Are My People,” and “Cleaning This Gun.” Get ready for a headlining performance packed with fan favorites.

 

Kicking off Saturday night is Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry, whose award-winning career and dynamic stage presence guarantee another can’t-miss performance.

 

All concerts will be held at Watseka American Legion Park on August 28-29, 2026. Gates open at 5 PM, with music starting at 7:30 PM each evening.

 

Take advantage of our special Early Bird Ticket Package, available through March 21st! Purchase tickets for both nights and receive half off Friday’s admission.

 

Chairs are welcome in designated General Admission areas on both nights. Tickets will be available online at www.watsekafamilyfest.com starting Friday, March 6, 2026, at 8 AM.

 

Stay tuned for updates and full event details at www.watsekafamilyfest.com as they become available.

The Ford-Iroquois 4-H Foundation Inc. is pleased to announce the availability of two types of scholarships this year. One scholarship is designated for students enrolling in a college or junior college, while the second is intended for those pursuing education at a trade school. Eligibility for the Ford-Iroquois 4-H Foundation Inc. scholarship is limited to members of Ford and Iroquois County 4-H clubs who have maintained active membership for the past five years, are current members of a Ford or Iroquois County 4-H Club, participated in the 2025 4-H show, are graduating high school in 2026, and have consistently adhered to the 4-H code of conduct. All applications are due by April 17. They have been sent to all 4-H seniors and high school counselors.

The Iroquois Sheriff’s Office arrested Christopher Burton, of Milford, Friday on a warrant charging him with first-degree murder.

 

A months-long investigation by deputies resulted in the 53-year-old Burton being accused of setting a house fire that led to the death of Ashley Tucker, 37.

 

Burton was arrested without incident and is being held in the Iroquois County Jail pending his initial court appearance, a news release from the sheriff’s office said.

 

The October 2025 house fire occurred in the 200 block of North Grant Street.

Investigators reviewed evidence from the scene, multiple witness statements, surveillance video from the area, cellular location data, and other records to establish the circumstances surrounding the fire, the sheriff’s office said.

 

 

The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal assisted in the investigation of the fire, the release said.

 

The case file was presented to the Iroquois County States Attorney who requested that a warrant be issued for Burton. The investigation remains active.

The Eastern Illinois Fire Chief’s Association, along with County Board Chairman Paul Ducat and the entire Iroquois County Board, hereby notify all Iroquois County residents that the burn ban that was in place County wide has officially been lifted as of today, Thursday, February 26, 2026.

Ashkum Fire Chief and President of the Eastern Illinois Fire Chief’s Association said, “You have to use common sense. If the wind is blowing, and there is a red flag warning issued by the National Weather Service- you can’t burn! Regardless if a burn ban is officially issued or not. If you need to burn CRP ground, contact your local fire chief and communicate with them before you light the fire!”

The Eastern Illinois Fire Chief’s Association, the Iroquois County Board and Chairman Paul Ducat, and the Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency would like to thank everyone that respected the ban.

Scott Anderson, Director

Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency

The Eastern Illinois Mutual Aid Fire Association- which is comprised of all 21 fire departments located in Iroquois County, along with County Board Chairman Paul Ducat and the entire Iroquois County Board, hereby notify all Iroquois County residents that a County-wide burn ban has been issued and is in effect immediately, Tuesday February 24th, 2026.

Ashkum Fire Chief and MABAS Division 37 President Jeff Glenn said, “Extreme wind conditions and the dry grassy areas create a scenario for out-of-control brush fires. Everything is just tinder dry.”

This burn ban was instituted by the Fire Chiefs of Iroquois County. The Fire Chiefs have the authority to issue a burn ban, pursuant with Illinois State Law (70 ILCS 705/8.20) directing everyone to refrain from any open burning, including landscape waste, agricultural waste, household trash, and garbage. Also included in this ban are any type of consumer fireworks. The Fire Departments can- by law, impose fines for violation of this burn ban and will, after warning and extinguishing these fires, impose a fine of $100.00. Fines will double for the second violation.

This ban will be in effect until further notice.

Thank you all for your help making this a safe time for everyone.

Scott Anderson, Director

Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency

The Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency would like to announce the promotion of one current member and the addition of one new member- both strong EMA professionals, to their staff of volunteers.

On Monday, February 23, 2026 current EMA volunteer Danny Neal will be promoted to the Deputy Director of the agency. His pursuit of a career within the emergency management field over the last few years has been a fruitful task, with Danny completing numerous IEMA sponsored courses. Putting his knowledge into practice by completing the preparation for training exercises, as well as focusing on volunteer recruitment and retention are some of his specialties. His expansive weather knowledge and training ability is an attribute that is impossible to pass up at this time. Director Anderson said about Mr. Neal, “Danny will be a major benefit to the Iroquois County EMA along with the residents of the county. His ability to hit the ground running on the first day is rare, especially from a volunteer. I look forward to helping him with whatever guidance he may need to expand and mold our current roster of volunteers.” Anderson continued, “Danny’s extensive weather knowledge and forecasting abilities is recognized by the National Weather Service, allowing him to teach the sanctioned NWS severe weather spotting classes. That is a huge benefit to the county. His work as a severe weather spotter in the field has generated thousands of followers, and that expertise will be available to us.” Danny is currently a volunteer with the Paxton Emergency Services.

EMA will also be adding Jason Madden to our roster. Jason is a full-time emergency management professional, as he currently works as the Emergency Management Training Coordinator for the University of Illinois, where he has served for several years. He is also a member of Paxton Emergency Services. He holds a degree in Geography from Northern Illinois University and has completed both the IEMA-OHS and FEMA Professional Development Series and has also earned accreditation as an Illinois Professional Emergency Manager. Anderson stated about Jason, “Having someone with Jason’s abilities within our staff to design and write the complex training exercises, will allow for our agency to hold more training with the fire, EMS, and law enforcement departments county wide. That is one of the primary functions of any emergency management agency as those training exercises allow our first responders to be ready and able to handle the different situations that are presented to them every day.”

“I certainly look forward to working with both Danny and Jason to continue moving the Iroquois County EMA in the positive direction my Assistant Director Chris Meredith and the rest of our volunteers have taken us. Danny and Jason will make it easier to continue down this path faster and give us the ability to expand to provide other divisions such as a search and rescue team or a rehab sector to support the first responders.”

Scott Anderson, Director

Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency

On February 18th, 2026, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Andrew D. Winkler, age 33, of Danville. According to police reports, Winkler was being held at the Vermilion County Jail on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant, charging him with unlawful possession of a credit/debit card. Winkler was taken into custody and transported to the Iroquois County Jail. He was later released with a notice to appear.

 

On February 19th, 2026, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Imanuel B. Wilson, age 34, of Kankakee. According to police reports, deputies were dispatched to the report of criminal damage to property. Through the course of their investigation, deputies made contact with Wilson and observed evidence that Wilson had been driving on private property. Wilson was taken into custody and charged with criminal damage to property and criminal trespass to land. Wilson was transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where he was later released with a notice to appear.

 

On February 19th, 2026, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Kristy M. England, age 45, of Watseka. According to police reports, deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by England for traffic violations. A search was conducted, and suspected methamphetamine was revealed. England was taken into custody and charged with reckless driving and possession of methamphetamine less than 5 grams. England was transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where she was later released with a notice to appear.