Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White’s legislative initiative strengthening the law on texting while driving takes effect July 1. The law cracks down on texting while driving by classifying first-time offenses as moving violations. Under the previous law, second and subsequent texting while driving offenses are treated as moving violations, while first offenses are treated as nonmoving violations.

“With the increased use of technological devices, distracted driving has become a serious problem on the roads of our state and throughout the nation,” said White. “This important law will make our roads safer. No driver should be texting while driving.” 

The penalty for a violation of this law results in a moving violation that will be recorded to the motorist’s driving record, as well as fines and court costs which will be determined by a judge. A driver who is convicted of three moving violations in a 12-month period is subject to a driver’s license suspension. 

Texting while driving is considered among the most deadly forms of distracted driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a motorist traveling at 55 mph takes their eyes off the road on average for five seconds when sending or reading a text. This equates to driving blindly for the length of a football field.

Public Act 100-0858 was sponsored by state Rep. John D’Amico (D-Chicago) and state Sen. Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) and was signed into law by Gov. JB Pritzker.

-#-

On June 19th, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Phillip B. Millard, age 41, of Watseka. According to police reports, Millard was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging him with violation of bail bond. He was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

On June 20th, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested James A. Musselman, age 32, of Watseka. According to police reports, Musselman was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging him with burglary. He was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

On June 22^nd, 2019, Gilman Police arrested Delbert R. Stevens Ill, age 32, of Gilman. According to police reports, Stevens was charged with two counts of domestic battery, resisting a peace officer, and obstructing justice, He was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond and was released-

On June 24^th, 2019, Roy M. Tykol, age 32, of Watseka turned himself into the Iroquois County Jail. According to police reports, Tykol was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging him with theft. Tykol later posted the required bond and was released.

On June 24^th, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Derrick S, Hall, age 30, of Loda. According to police reports, Hall was charged with domestic battery. Hall was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.     

A total of 5 children entered the 2019 Lil’ Mr. & Miss Firecracker contest.  This year’s contest consisted of a coloring contest for area children ages 3 through 7. Lil Mr. Firecracker is Jax Johnson of Watseka, Illinois. Jax is 7 years old and is the son of Sawyer Johnson and Sarah Johnson  Lil Miss Firecracker is Karsyn Valentine of Watseka, Illinois. Karsyn is 3 years old and is the daughter of Terri Valentine and Jerry Wireman.   The winners will ride in the 2019 City of Watseka “Made in America” Independence Day Parade on July 4th beginning at 10:00 a.m.   All of the coloring sheets will be on display at the Chamber office until the 4th of July located at 110 South 3rd Street in Watseka. 

Watseka Police responded to a report of an animal complaint in the 100 block of E Jefferson Ave at 7:37 A.M. on 06-17-19.

Watseka Police responded to an animal complaint in the 1000 block of N Jefferson at 8:28 A.M. on 06-17-19.

Watseka Police responded to a domestic in the 400 block of E Walnut at 8:44 A.M. on 06-17-19.

Watseka Police responded to a report of an intoxicated person in the 300 block of E Walnut at 1:22 P.M. on 06-17-19.

Watseka Police responded to a report of trespassing in the 200 block of W Locust at 8:27 P.M. on 06-17-19.

Watseka Police responded to a report of a battery in the 200 block of E Fairman at 12:26 A.M. on 06-18-19.

Watseka Police responded to a report of telephone harassment in the 100 block of Hubbard Ct at 3:36 A.M. on 06-18-19.

Watseka Police responded to a report of burglary in progress in the 400 block of W Walnut at 10:43 A.M. on 06-18-19.

Watseka Police responded to a report of a battery in the 700 block of E Raymond Rd at 2:24 P.M. on 06-18-19.

Watseka Police arrested Chad C Koester, 30 Watseka in the 100 block of E Walnut at 5:10 P.M. on 06-18-19. Koester was wanted on an Iroquois County warrant charging him the Violation of an order of protection. Once Koester was taken into custody he was found to be in possession of another's check and was also charged with forgery. Koester was transported to the Iroquois County jail.

Watseka Police responded to a report of a suspicious person in the 1000 block of N Jefferson at 8:50 P.M. on 06-18

NEWTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE 

The suspect in yesterday’s carjacking is, 61 year old Victor Edward Cihonski Jr of South Bend, IN.

Cihonski is currently being held at the Lake County Jail in connection with armed robberies that occurred in Cedar Lake and Lowell, IN.

Newton County Sheriff’s Office has placed a hold on Cihonski for several felony charges related to the carjacking.

WHAT:  Fatal Crash 
 
WHERE:   Route 45/52 @ 7500 N (Kankakee County) 
 
WHEN:  Tuesday, June 18, 2019, 6:06 a.m. 
 
VEHICLE:  Unit One:  2004 Chevrolet Impala    Unit Two:  2012 Chevrolet Impala  
DRIVER:  Unit One:  Lawrence R. Henitz, 59, Bourbonnais (Deceased)    Unit Two:  Timothy S. Sandt, 22, Joliet 
 
 
PRELIMINARY:  Preliminary investigation has indicated unit two was traveling      southbound on Route 45 at 7500 N.  Unit one was traveling northbound      at the same location attempting to pass another vehicle and struck     unit two head on.  The driver of unit two was transported to a local    hospital with injuries.  The driver of unit one was pronounced deceased    on scene by the Kankakee County Coroner.  
 

The Watseka Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that the Watseka FFA Chapter will serve as this year’s “Made in America” Grand Marshal in this year’s 4th of July parade sponsored by the City of Watseka.             The Watseka FFA chapter was re-established 13 years ago at the Watseka Community High School. The 2019-2020 Officer Team consists of Co-President Cal Cotter, Co-President Lainey Scher, Vice President Jack Naese, Secretary Allie Hoy, Treasurer Adam Norder, Reporter Sydney McTaggart, and Sentinel Ashton Bowling. The Chapter is more than 100 members strong and growing with members involved in every aspect of church, community, and school activities that make up WCHS. The Watseka FFA Chapter has been affiliated with the Watseka Park District & FFA Alumi Association, four members will be receiving their state degrees and one member will be receiving his American degree. Congratulations to the Watseka FFA Chapter and to Mr. Wilkey on being named this year’s Grand Marshal’s.                  This year’s parade will take place on Wednesday, July 4, 2019 at 10am, the parade route will proceed south on Belmont Avenue, turn west on Fairman Avenue, north on Fourth Street, east on Cherry Street, south on Fifth Street, east on Lincoln Avenue, south on Belmont Avenue ending at the Watseka High School, where the parade will disperse. Announcer and the judges will be located at First Financial Bank parking lot on south Fourth Street. Judging will take place during the parade.             For more information on registering for the parade, contact Amanda at the Chamber office 815-432-2416 or stop by 110 S. Third Street in Watseka. 

On June 17, 2019 at 6:20am, Newton County Dispatch received a report of a single vehicle crash on US 41 near CR 300W (north of the Morocco overpass).

A  Watseka, Il man witnessed the crash and called 9-1-1.  As the witness was checking on the driver of the crashed vehicle, the driver displayed a gun and forced the Watseka man to drive him in his car.  The Watseka man complied and drove the suspect from the crash scene. 

Within a few miles, the suspect released the Watseka man, unharmed.  The suspect then fled east in the stolen vehicle.

About 8:25am, the suspect was involved in a short pursuit in Marshall County near Plymouth, IN.  He crashed the stolen vehicle and was taken into custody.

Anyone that witnessed the Morocco crash or carjacking should call 219-474-6081 EXT 3108 to speak to Deputy Fellmy.

This case remains an active investigation.  Additional details are expected to be released within 24 hours.

All suspects are considered innocent until/unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Assisting agencies: Newton County EMS, Newton County EMA, Morocco Fire,  Jasper County Sheriff, Marshall  County Sheriff’s Office, Indiana State Police, Cedar Lake Police and Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

On June 14th, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Jonathan St. Peter, age 36, of Rantoul. According to police reports, St. Peter was charged with possession of methamphetamine less than 5 grams. St. Peter was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond and was released.

On June 14th, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested James Kupferer, age 32, of Kankakee. According to police reports, Kupferer was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging him with probation violation for possession of methamphetamine, He was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

On June 15th, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Phillip B. Millard, age 41, of Milford. According to police reports, Millard was charged with aggravated domestic battery- He was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond and was released,
 

On June 16th, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Kathleen L. Powell, age 23, of Ashkum. According to police reports, Powell was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging her with possession of a controlled substance and theft. She was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where she posted the required bond and was released.

On June 17th, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Jesse K. McGhee, age 37, of Danforth, According to police reports, McGhee was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging him with failure to appear for domestic battery- McGhee was aware of his warrant and turned himself into the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond and was released.

County Treasurer, Kurt Albers, has announced that the 2018 payable in 2019 real estate tax statements have been mailed to the taxpayers of Iroquois County.  The deadline to pay the first installment without penalty is July 16, 2019.  The second installment due date is September 16, 2019.  After the due dates a 1 ½ percent penalty must be added each month it remains unpaid, according to Illinois State Statutes.  Taxpayers must include their tax bill when paying or a $1.00 fee will be charged.

The Treasurer’s Office is open 8:30 to 4:30 Monday through Friday.  To avoid waiting in line, you may also pay by mail or at any bank in Iroquois County including Iroquois Federal, Commonwealth Credit Union and the First State Bank of Forrest in Onarga.  Taxpayers paying in person at the Treasurer’s Office or at the local banks should bring the entire bill if they would like a receipt.  Upon payment, the appropriate stub of the bill will be removed and then the date will be stamped on the back of the remaining part of the tax bill.  If you mail your payment and wish to have a receipt, you must enclose the entire bill plus a self-addressed stamped envelope.

Credit card payments will be accepted by phone and online starting June 17, 2019.  Call the Treasurer’s Office first at 815-432-6985 during office hours to verify the payment amount.  Then you will be given the Government Payment Service phone number, website address, and the pay location and authorization codes.  Their phone number and the website will be available 24 hours a day 7 days a week to receive payments.  Fees will be added based on the amount charged, there is a minimum service fee, and all fees are paid to and kept by Government Payment Service.

Members of any United States Armed Forces Reserve Unit can defer their real estate tax payment until 180 days after they return from active duty.  This option is available if you are called to active duty for deployment outside the continental United States and if you are on active duty on the due date of any installment of taxes.

Remember that a drop box has been installed at the Administrative Center near the 911 Center so that taxpayers can drop off their payments during non-office hours.

If you have any questions about exemptions, assessed valuations, or address changes, please contact the Assessment Office at (815) 432-6978.

If you have any questions regarding the tax rates, please contact the County Clerk’s Office at (815) 432-6960.

If there are any questions about your tax statements, feel free to call the Treasurer’s Office at (815) 432-6985.

One suspect has been arrested on a warrant for animal cruelty (Class A Misdemeanor) and torturing or mutilating a vertebrate animal (Level 6 Felony).  Edgar Gardozo-Vasquez, 36 years old of Brook, IN was taken into custody, he is currently being held at the Newton County Jail.   Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) has placed a hold on Gardozo-Vasquez.

There are still outstanding warrants for Santiago Ruvalcaba Contreros and Miguel Angel Navarro Serrano.

All suspects are considered innocent unless/until proven guilty in a court of law.

Assisting agencies:  Jasper County Sheriff and Indiana State Police

Sheriff VanVleet

On June 11, 2019 approximately 6:40PM, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office and emergency personnel responded to a report of a two vehicle crash on SR 10 near CR 175W (about 1.5 miles east of Lake Village)

The preliminary investigation indicates a Scion passenger vehicle was traveling eastbound on SR 10.  The 20 year old male driver from Saint John, IN lost control of the vehicle and spun into the westbound lane.  A westbound Chevrolet pickup truck (driven by a 27 year old Lake Village man) struck the Scion on the passenger’s side.

Both drivers and a 24 year old female passenger in the pickup were transported to an area hospital for what is believed to be non-life threatening injuries. 

Speed is believed to be a factor in the crash.  The crash remains under investigation.

Names of the drivers and occupant are not being released at this time.

Assisting agencies: Newton County Dispatch, Indiana State Police, Newton County EMS, Lake Township Fire Dept.

On June 6^th , 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Pamela R. Lowe, age 33, of Watseka, IL,

According to police reports, Lowe was charged with retail theft under $300. Lowe was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where she remains in lieu of bond,

On June 7^th , 2019, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Gabriel H. Ordonez, age 45, of Milford, IL, According to police reports, Ordonez was wanted on an outstanding Cole's County warrant- Ordonez was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

On June 8^th , 2019, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Spencer Andrews, age 48, of Danforth, IL. According to police reports, Andrews was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant for driving while license is revoked. Andrews was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

On June 8^th , 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Shauna Wilson, age 38, of Kankakee, IL. According to police reports, Wilson was wanted on an outstanding Cook County warrant for possession of drug paraphernalia. Wilson was transponed to the Iroquois County Jail where she remains in lieu of bond.

On June 8^th , 2019, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police arrested Miguel Aguilera, age 68, of Onarga, IL. According to police reports, Aguilera was charged with driving while license is revoked. Aguilera was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

On June 8^th , 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested John Planinsek, age 33, of Buckley, IL.

According to police reports, Planinsek was wanted on an outstanding Will County, Grundy County, and Livingston County warrants. Planinsek was also charged with driving white license is suspended, unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon, and drug paraphernalia. Planinsek was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

On June 10^th, 2019, Sheldon Police arrested Andre Maiden, age 23, of Sheldon, IL, According to police reports, Maiden was charged with resisting a Peace Officer, Maiden was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

On June 1 I ^th, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Joshua T. Berry, age 32, of Watseka, IL. According to police reports, Berry was charged with burglary and theft under $500. Berry was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond

Watseka Police responded to a call of an open door on a business in the 500 block of N. Kay st. on 06/07/19 at 8:59 A.M.

Watseka Police investigated an accident which occurred in Berkot's parking lot on 06/07/19 at 8:57 A.M. A vehicle driven by Susan P. Stone, 71 of Watseka was pulling out of a parking space, when she collided with a vehicle driven by Daniel M. Sullivan, 52 of Watseka that was driving through the parking lot. No injuries were reported and no citations were issued.

Watseka Police responded to a call of a loose dog in the 600 block of S. 4^th st. on 06/07/19 at 11:30 A.M.

Watseka Police responded to a call of phone harassment in the 200 block of S. 3 ^rd st. on 06/07/19 at 1:44 P.M.

Watseka Police responded to a call for a public service in the 200 block of N. Brianna Dr. on 06/07/19 at 2:47 P.M.

Watseka Police responded to a call of a reckless driver and made a traffic stop in the 1700 block of E. Walnut St. on the vehicle on 06/07/19 at 3:46 P.M.

Watseka Police investigated a traffic accident which occurred on

06/07/19 at 5:06 P.M. on E. Lincoln Av. at the intersection with S. Belmont Avenue. A vehicle driven by Kevin L. Verkler, 61 of Watseka was backing into a parking space, when he struck a vehicle owned by Ryan J. Miller, 34 of Watseka. No injuries were reported and no citations were issued.

Watseka Police responded to a report of a theft in the 300 block of N. Market St. on 06/07/19 at 6:17 P.M.

Watseka Police responded to a call of a reckless driver in the 1700 block of E. Walnut St. on 06/07/19 at 10:43 P.M.

Watseka Police responded to a call of a disturbance in the 400 block of E. Cherry St. on 06/08/19 at 12:08 A.M.

Watseka Police responded to a call of a battery in the 800 block of N. Virginia St. on 06/08/19 at 2:32 A.M.

Watseka Police responded to a call of a disturbance in the 400 block of E. Cherry St. on 06/08/19 at 8:42 A.M.

Watseka Police responded to a call of fireworks in the 500 block of W. Park Av. on 06/08/19 at 8:23 P.M.

Watseka Police investigated an accident which occurred in the 300 block of W. Hickory St. on 06/08/19 at 10:32 P.M. A vehicle driven by Brenda K. Miller, 50 of Watseka was east bound on Hickory St. when she struck a vehicle driven by Kathy J. Bertrand, 46 of Watseka that was west bound. At the end of the investigation, Brenda Miller was arrested for Driving under the influence of alcohol, she was also ticketed for driving while BAC over .08, Improper lane usage, Failure to reduce speed to a avoid an accident, and Operation of an uninsured motor vehicle. She was transported to ICSD jail where she later posted bond and was released.

Watseka Police made a traffic stop on E. Walnut St. near 3^rd St. on 06/09/19 at 4:04 A. M. for disobeying a traffic control device. The driver was released on a verbal warning.

As a result of the investigation into the alleged animal cruelty at Fair Oaks Farms, charges have been filed on three individuals  for the beating of a vertebrate animal, Indiana Code 35-46-3-12, a Class A misdemeanor.

We anticipate the release of these names within 24 hours.

Interviews with other persons of interest are being conducted.

Details of the investigation cannot be released at this time as this investigation is still active.

Questions regarding acceptable farm practices should be directed to the Indiana State Board of Animal Health as they are the governing body.  They can be contacted by e-mail animalhealth@boah.in.gov or www.boah.in.gov

Assisting agencies: Indiana State Police, Indiana State Board of Animal Health and the Newton County Prosecutor’s Office

Sheriff Thomas B. VanVleet

Illinois State Police District 21 Commander, Captain Don Aaron Harsy, 
announced today activity and enforcement figures for May 2019.   
Illinois State Police District 21 Troopers issued 919 citations, 904 written warnings, including 7 
DUIs, 132 seatbelt citations, 23 criminal arrests.  Troopers also assisted 205 motorists, 
conducted 204 Motor Carrier Inspections, and investigated 83 traffic crashes.  There was one 
fatal crash investigated by District 21 in May.   
According to the National Safety Council the major contributing factors to motor-vehicle 
deaths in the United States are lack of occupant protection, alcohol, speeding, young drivers, 
distractions, and large trucks. 
In an effort to reduce fatalities, the Illinois State Police uses enforcement activities and 
educational programs to fight these major contributing factors. 

ACTIVE INVESTIGATION-

Re:  ALLIGATIONS OF ANIMAL CRUELTY AT FAIR OAKS FARMS

NEWTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE (6-5-19 10:00AM)

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office has been made aware of the video and activities depicted in the video that has been released.

We acknowledge the need for humane treatment of animals and the need to hold individuals that have gone beyond an acceptable farm management practice accountable for their actions.

We have requested the names and identifiers of those terminated for animal cruelty by Fair Oaks Dairy Farms.  We will also be seeking the identity of the witness to the alleged crimes that failed to report this activity for some time. 

We will work with the Newton County Prosecutor’s Office to file charges for any criminal activity the independent investigation revealed.

We anticipate cooperation from both parties in this matter during this investigation.

Any suspected animal cruelty should be reported immediately by calling 219-474-5661 or our TIP LINE 219-234-7014.

Sheriff VanVlee

On June 3^rd, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Derek R. Gilbert, age 28, of Danforth) IL. According to police reports, Gilbert was wanted on an outstanding Kankakee County warrant. Gilbert was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

On June 3^rd, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested David R. Blair, age 40, of Gilman, ILAccording to police reports, Blair was wanted on and outstanding Iroquois County warrant for possession of methamphetamine. Blair was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

On June 4^th, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Frank D. Lucus, age 49, of Rankin, IL. According to police repons, Lucus was charged with aggravated battery, Lucus was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

Arrests

On June 1st, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Tremaine G. Walton, age 44, of Harvey. According to police reports, Walton was charged with driving while license revoked. He was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond and was released.

On June 1st, 20191 Sheldon Police arrested Travis L Patterson, age 201 of Sheldon. According to police reports, Patterson was charged with possession Of methamphetamine. He was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond and was released.

Accidents

 May 31st, 2019t Iroquois County Sheriffs Police investigated a single vehicle accident on 1700 N, near 900 E- According to police reports, a vehicfe driven by Alicia A, Johnson, age 31, of Gilman was traveling east on 1700 N. when she tost control and skidded off the roadway and entered the north ditch striking the embankment. No injuries were reported and no citations were issued.

On June 1st, 2019, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police investigated a two vehicle accident in the ailey way between Oak and Locust St. in Onarga, According to police reports, a vehicle driven by Starlett K. Dziuam, age 28, of Onarga, was traveling north in the ailey way. As Startett was approaching Jackson Ave. she failed to yield at the intersection. She proceeded through the intersection and struck a vehicle driven by Andrew P. Harroun, age 35, of Onarga. Starett was cited for failure to yield right of way. No injuries were reported.