“We are currently working with USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection
Service (APHIS) to address reports of unsolicited shipments of seeds from foreign
countries. Anyone who receives unordered seeds in the mail should contact the
Illinois Department of Agriculture by emailing the following information to
agr.seeds@Illinois.gov: First and Last Name, Phone Number and the number of
packages received. Do not open the package, plant the seeds, or throw them out.
Please keep all seeds unopened and with their original packaging and labels,
including mailing labels, until further instruction is provided.”

Iroquois county numbers as of 7/27/2020

217 comfirmed casees

181 released

6 hospitalized 

Ford County, IL - Ford County Public Health Department (FCPHD) is announcing two new confirmed cases. The individuals
include a female in her 70’s and a female in her 20’s. Ford County has a total of 45 cases. Of those, 35 are confirmed cases and
10 are probable cases. There has been one COVID-19 related death. These numbers are accurate as of the release time.
Public health officials continue to investigate and contact all individuals who may have had exposure to individuals that tested
positive for COVID-19. All close contacts are asked to self-quarantine for 14 days and monitor themselves for symptoms of
COVID-19. Both confirmed and probable cases are treated the same with regards to isolation and contact tracing. Federal
privacy restrictions prohibit the release of any further information. For more information about case definitions and criteria,
please visit: https://wwwn.cdc.gov/nndss/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/case-definition/2020/.
FCPHD continues to encourage all residents to conduct preventive measures, including practicing three key steps (The 3 W’s):
wash your hands, watch your distance, and wear a face covering. COVID-19 appears to spread from person-to-person mainly
with close contact (less than 6 feet), but may also be spread by a surface that has the virus and then touching one’s mouth,
nose, or possibly one’s eyes. Illinois Department of Public Health states that the spread is through respiratory droplets
produced when an infected person speaks, coughs or sneezes.
COVID-19 in Illinois
• For zip code level information on confirmed positive COVID-19 cases, please visit IDPH Virtual map at:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/covid19-statistics. Please note, data will not be shown unless a zip code has six or
more confirmed cases. This is consistent with Collection, Disclosure, and Confidentiality of Health Statistics (77 Ill. Adm.
Code 1005). Zip code areas 60957 and 60936 are being reported.
• For information on long term care facilities with cases of COVID-19 among residents and staff, please visit:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/long-term-care-facility-outbreaks-covid-19. Information provided at this link is
provisional, subject to change, and updated weekly. Facilities report data to their local health departments, which in-turn
report to IDPH, so lag time and discrepancies are to be expected.
• For county-level COVID-19 risk metrics, please visit: http://dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics.
• For information on Restore Illinois and Phase 4, please visit: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/restore.
• For a listing of COVID-19 testing sites in Illinois, please visit: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/testing. This is not a
comprehensive list of testing sites. Locations are continuously being added as information is provided. Some locations have
asked not to be named.
Please visit our website (www.fordcountyphd.org) and follow our Facebook and Twitter pages for additional COVID-19
information and resources. For general questions about COVID-19, call the Illinois Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Hotline at
1(800) 889-3931 or send an email to: DPH.SICK@ILLINOIS.GOV anytime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

183 Confirmed cases

171 Released 

1 on home isolation 

1 remains in the hospital 

Richard Paquette, 39, St. Anne, turned himself in at the Iroquois County Jail July 17 to begin a 10 weekend sentence for driving while his license is suspended.

Ashkum/Clifton police arrested Ryan Lowery, 43, Ashku, July 18. According to police reports, Lowery was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging him with violation of an order of protection. He was taken to the Iroquois County Jail, where he posted the required bond and was released.

Watseka Police arrested Heather M. Anderson, 35, Watseka, in the 300 block of North Boughton at 6:09 p.m. July 17. Anderson was charged with disorderly conduct and criminal trespass to land. She was transported to the Iroquois County Jail.

Watseka Police investigated a hit and run accident in the 400 block of East Cherry at 8:52 p.m. July 17. According to police reports, a vehicle belonging to Byron Navas, Watseka, was legally parked on the roadway when it was struck by an unknown vehicle. Damage was estimated at more than $1,500.

Watseka Police arrested Heather M. Anderson, 35, Watseka, in the 300 block of West Oak at 1:56 p.m. July 18. Anderson was charged with theft and transported to the Iroquois County Jail.

The Earl Park Fall Festival committee has exhausted all efforts in a attempt to host the 48th annual festival.

They have already began planning the 2021 festival. All 2020 camping fees will be honored for 2021.

The Earl Park Fall Festival is normally held over Labor Day Weekend. 

AS OF 7/15/2020

The Iroiquois County Health Department is reporting

180 Confirmed cases of Covid 19

of those, 162 have recovered and been released, 12 are on home isolation, 1 hospitalized, and 5 deceased. 

Iroquois county sheriffs police arrested Tatiana Neustadler 30 of Chicago after they discovered she was wanted on a warrant out of Rock Island County for driving while license suspended. Neustadler was taken to the ICJ. 

ICSP arrested Laura Hall 42 of Watseka for possession of a controlled substance. Hall was taken to the ICJ.  

ICSP say they arrested Heather Osborne of Watseka for Theft over $10,000.00 Osborne was taken to the ICJ

ICSP arrested Brandon Wood 36 of Cissna Park,  Wood was taken to the ICJ on a warrent for theft over $500.00.

ICSP arrested Terry Blair 26 of Gilman. Blair was taken into custody for Criminal damage to property.

ICSP arrested Joseph Wessel  28 of Onarga, Wessels was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant, also charged with Criminal sexual abuse, and Unlawful Restraint

Tinley Park, IL - Illinois State Police (ISP) District 5 Troopers arrest and charge Robert F. Andracki, a 60 year old male from Hickory Hills, IL, on Friday, July 10, 2020, with one count of Reckless Discharge of a Firearm.

On July 10, 2020, at approximately 10:42 p.m., ISP District 5 Troopers responded to a local area gas station after learning a shooting had occurred on Interstate 80.  The male driver and sole occupant of the victim vehicle stated he was traveling Interstate 80 eastbound west of LaGrange Road when his vehicle was shot. The driver of the victim vehicle did not sustain any injuries.

ISP District 5 Troopers with the assistance of ISP Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Agents initiated an investigation that culminated in the arrest of Andracki for the offense of Reckless Discharge of a Firearm. Andracki was transported to the Will County Adult Detention Facility where he awaits a bond hearing.

Watseka Police investigated a two-vehicle accident in the 800 block of East Walnut at 6:30 p.m. July 11. According to police reports, a vehicle driven by Henry A. David, 70, St. Anne, was in a private drive and began back in up. David did not see a vehicle driven by Daniel M. Chase, 41, Hoopeston, behind him, striking the Chase vehicle. No injuries were reported and no citations were issued. Damage was estimated at less than $1,500.

Unit:
 

District Chicago
 

Location:
 

Interstate 94 southbound (locals) 51st Street 

When:
 

July 13, 2020 at approximately 2:36 a.m.

Incident:
 

Expressway Shooting
 

Brief Synopsis:
 

A preliminary investigation indicates the following occurred: ISP District Chicago Troopers were at a local area hospital reference an earlier crash that occurred on the Interstate. While at the hospital, ISP District Chicago Troopers learned a shooting had occurred at the above location and time and the victims of the shooting, relocated to the hospital for treatment. The male driver and female (child) rear seat passenger of the victim vehicle did not sustain any injuries. The female front seat passenger sustained nonlife threatening injuries. At approximately 3:47 a.m., all southbound local lanes on Interstate 94 at 47th street were closed for the investigation with traffic diverted off at 47th Street. The investigation is ongoing and there is no further information at this time. The public is advised to please slow down, if in the area or seek alternate routes before entering the area. Please avoid using entrance ramps to exit the expressway.

Please be sure to follow our social media pages for the most current updates: Twitter: @ChicagoISP and Facebook: @ISPDistrictChicago

As of 07/10/2020 Iroquois County has 173 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases of COVID-19. At the time of this press release the Iroquois County Public Health Department has received 3,662 test results for COVID-19. Of the 3,662 results, 3,489 have been negative and 173 have been positive. Here is the information that we can release about our recent cases: ? Case 173: Male in his 70’s Of the 173 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases, 152 have recovered and have been released from isolation, 0 are hospitalized, 16 remain isolated at home and 5 have passed away. We extend our prayers and deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community members affected by these losses. Our Communicable Disease nurses are working tirelessly to complete investigations, conduct contact tracing and notify anyone determined to be at increased risk of exposure. All individuals under health department mandated isolation or quarantine are monitored daily until released. This situation is fluid. Guidance and recommendations regarding patients under investigation may evolve as more is learned. No additional details will be provided regarding any of the above Iroquois County residents per compliance with 77 Ill. Adm. Code 1005. Please visit http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/077/07701005sections.html for further information regarding the Collection, Disclosure, and Confidentiality of Health Statistics. For zip code level information on confirmed positive COVID-19 cases please visit the IDPH Virtual map at: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/covid19-statistics For information on long term care facilities with cases of COVID-19 among residents and staff please visit the IDPH map at: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/long-term-care-facility-outbreaks-covid-19 The Iroquois County Public Health Department is reporting congregate data regarding COVID-19. In an effort to clarify this data, we would like to provide a brief explanation. A confirmed case is an individual residing in Iroquois County who has a positive laboratory confirmation of COVID-19. The total confirmed case numbers we report includes all individuals who have tested positive, regardless of their current status. This number will never decrease. Recovered cases are individuals who tested positive and after a period of ten days, are afebrile (fever free without fever-reducing medication) for at least 72 hours and respiratory symptoms have improved. These recovered cases are then released from isolation by the health department. This is a rapidly evolving situation and the Iroquois County Public Health Department will provide updated information and guidance as it becomes available on our Iroquois County Public Health Department Facebook page and website at http://www.co.iroquois.il.us/covid-19-corona-virus/  

As of 07/09/2020 Iroquois County has 172 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases of COVID-19. At the time of this
press release the Iroquois County Public Health Department has received 3,440 test results for COVID-19. Of the 3,440
results, 3,268 have been negative and 172 have been positive. Here is the information that we can release about our recent
cases:
? Case 171: Male in his 30’s
? Case 172: Male in his 30’s
Of the 172 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases, 150 have recovered and have been released from isolation,
0 are hospitalized, 17 remain isolated at home and 5 have passed away. We extend our prayers and deepest
condolences to the family, friends, and community members affected by these losses.
Our Communicable Disease nurses are working tirelessly to complete investigations, conduct contact tracing and notify
anyone determined to be at increased risk of exposure. All individuals under health department mandated isolation or
quarantine are monitored daily until released. This situation is fluid. Guidance and recommendations regarding patients
under investigation may evolve as more is learned.
No additional details will be provided regarding any of the above Iroquois County residents per compliance with 77 Ill.
Adm. Code 1005. Please visit http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/077/07701005sections.html for further
information regarding the Collection, Disclosure, and Confidentiality of Health Statistics.
For zip code level information on confirmed positive COVID-19 cases please visit the IDPH Virtual map at:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/covid19-statistics
For information on long term care facilities with cases of COVID-19 among residents and staff please visit the IDPH map
at:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/long-term-care-facility-outbreaks-covid-19
The Iroquois County Public Health Department is reporting congregate data regarding COVID-19. In an effort to clarify
this data, we would like to provide a brief explanation. A confirmed case is an individual residing in Iroquois County who
has a positive laboratory confirmation of COVID-19. The total confirmed case numbers we report includes all individuals
who have tested positive, regardless of their current status. This number will never decrease. Recovered cases are
individuals who tested positive and after a period of ten days, are afebrile (fever free without fever-reducing medication)
for at least 72 hours and respiratory symptoms have improved. These recovered cases are then released from isolation by
the health department.
This is a rapidly evolving situation and the Iroquois County Public Health Department will provide updated information
and guidance as it becomes available on our Iroquois County Public Health Department Facebook page and website at
http://www.co.iroquois.il.us/covid-19-corona-virus/ 

Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Donte A. Jefferies, 19, Martinton, June 30. According to police reports, Jefferies was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging him with criminal trespass to state land. He was aware of his warrant and turned himself in at the Iroquois County Jail, where he posted the required bond and was released.

Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Donte L. Wade, 33, Chicago June 30. According to police reports, Wade was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging him with failure to appear for driving under the influence of drugs. He was placed in custody and transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where he posted the required bond and was released.

Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Misty Carlson, 28, Donovan, July 3. According to police reports, Carlson was charged with battery. She was placed in custody and transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where she posted the required bond and was released.

Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Dawn Carlson, 51, Watseka, July 3. Carlson was charged with battery. She was placed in custody and transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where she posted the required bond and was released.

Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Tyrod Whitehead, 40, Rocky Mount, North Carolina, July 5. According to police reports, Whitehead was charged with unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon. He was placed in custody and transported to the Iroquois County Jail, where he posted the required bond and was released.

Watseka Police arrested David W. Richmond, 28 Watseka, in the 400 block of East Oak at 8:03 p.m. July 4. Richmond was charged with domestic battery and was taken to the Iroquois County Jail.

As of 07/07/2020 Iroquois County has 169 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases of COVID-19. At the time of this
press release the Iroquois County Public Health Department has received 3,180 test results for COVID-19. Of the 3,180
results, 3,011 have been negative and 169 have been positive. Here is the information that we can release about our recent
cases:
? Case 169: Male in his 80’s
Of the 169 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases, 149 have recovered and have been released from isolation,
0 are hospitalized, 15 remain isolated at home and 5 have passed away. We extend our prayers and deepest
condolences to the family, friends, and community members affected by these losses.
Our Communicable Disease nurses are working tirelessly to complete investigations, conduct contact tracing and notify
anyone determined to be at increased risk of exposure. All individuals under health department mandated isolation or
quarantine are monitored daily until released. This situation is fluid. Guidance and recommendations regarding patients
under investigation may evolve as more is learned.
No additional details will be provided regarding any of the above Iroquois County residents per compliance with 77 Ill.
Adm. Code 1005. Please visit http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/077/07701005sections.html for further
information regarding the Collection, Disclosure, and Confidentiality of Health Statistics.
For zip code level information on confirmed positive COVID-19 cases please visit the IDPH Virtual map at:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/covid19-statistics
For information on long term care facilities with cases of COVID-19 among residents and staff please visit the IDPH map
at:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/long-term-care-facility-outbreaks-covid-19
The Iroquois County Public Health Department is reporting congregate data regarding COVID-19. In an effort to clarify
this data, we would like to provide a brief explanation. A confirmed case is an individual residing in Iroquois County who
has a positive laboratory confirmation of COVID-19. The total confirmed case numbers we report includes all individuals
who have tested positive, regardless of their current status. This number will never decrease. Recovered cases are
individuals who tested positive and after a period of ten days, are afebrile (fever free without fever-reducing medication)
for at least 72 hours and respiratory symptoms have improved. These recovered cases are then released from isolation by
the health department.
This is a rapidly evolving situation and the Iroquois County Public Health Department will provide updated information
and guidance as it becomes available on our Iroquois County Public Health Department Facebook page and website at
http://www.co.iroquois.il.us/covid-19-corona-virus/ 

Ford County Public Health Department (FCPHD) is announcing one new confirmed case. The individual is a female in her 20’s.
Ford County has a total of 41 confirmed positive cases. There has been one COVID-19 related death. These numbers are
accurate as of the release time. Public health officials continue to investigate and contact all individuals who may have had
exposure to individuals that tested positive for COVID-19. Federal privacy restrictions prohibit the release of any further
information.
FCPHD continues to encourage all residents to conduct preventive measures, including practicing three key steps (The 3 W’s):
wash your hands, watch your distance, and wear a face covering. COVID-19 appears to spread from person-to-person mainly
with close contact (less than 6 feet), but may also be spread by a surface that has the virus and then touching one’s mouth,
nose, or possibly one’s eyes. Illinois Department of Public Health states that the spread is through respiratory droplets
produced when an infected person speaks, coughs or sneezes.
COVID-19 in Illinois
• For zip code level information on confirmed positive COVID-19 cases, please visit IDPH Virtual map at:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/covid19-statistics. Please note, data will not be shown unless a zip code has six or
more confirmed cases. This is consistent with Collection, Disclosure, and Confidentiality of Health Statistics (77 Ill. Adm.
Code 1005). Zip code areas 60957 and 60936 are being reported.
• For information on long term care facilities with cases of COVID-19 among residents and staff, please visit:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/long-term-care-facility-outbreaks-covid-19. Information provided at this link is
provisional, subject to change, and updated weekly. Facilities report data to their local health departments, which in-turn
report to IDPH, so lag time and discrepancies are to be expected.
• For county-level COVID-19 risk metrics, please visit: http://dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics.
• For information on Restore Illinois and Phase 4, please visit: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/restore.
• For a listing of COVID-19 testing sites in Illinois, please visit: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/testing. This is not a
comprehensive list of testing sites. Locations are continuously being added as information is provided. Some locations have
asked not to be named.
Please continue to visit our website (www.fordcountyphd.org) and follow our Facebook page for additional COVID-19
resources and updates. For general questions about COVID-19, call the Illinois Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Hotline at
1(800) 889-3931 or send an email to: DPH.SICK@ILLINOIS.GOV anytime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

WHAT:                      Hit and Run Pedestrian Fatal Traffic Crash

WHERE:                    US Route 150 at Vermilion County Road 1300E (Henning Road)

WHEN:                      Saturday, July 4, 2020, 2:03 a.m.

VEHICLE:                Unit 1:  Silver sedan  

DRIVER:                   Unit 1:  Unknown at this time

PEDESTRIAN:         Unit 2:  Tyler L. Rodriguez, 26-year-old male of Danville, IL (Deceased)

PRELIMINARY:      Preliminary investigation indicates the following occurred:  A pedestrian was walking on US Route 150 westbound, approximately .3 miles west of Henning Road in Danville.  An unknown passenger car struck the pedestrian and fled the scene.  The pedestrian died due to injuries sustained as a result of the crash.  No further information will be released at this time.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has any knowledge of the crash is asked to contact the ISP at 217-278-5004 or ISP.DCI.Zone05@Illinois.gov.  Callers can remain anonymous.

CHARGES:               Pending Investigation. 

As of 07/06/2020 Iroquois County has 168 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases of COVID-19. At the time of this
press release the Iroquois County Public Health Department has received 3,122 test results for COVID-19. Of the 3,122
results, 2,954 have been negative and 168 have been positive. Here is the information that we can release about our recent
cases:
? Case 163: Male in his 50’s
? Case 164: Male in his 30’s
? Case 165: Male in his 20’s
? Case 166: Female in her 60’s
? Case 167: Male in his 60’s
? Case 168: Female in her 50’s
Of the 168 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases, 147 have recovered and have been released from isolation,
0 are hospitalized, 16 remain isolated at home and 5 have passed away. We extend our prayers and deepest
condolences to the family, friends, and community members affected by these losses.
Our Communicable Disease nurses are working tirelessly to complete investigations, conduct contact tracing and notify
anyone determined to be at increased risk of exposure. All individuals under health department mandated isolation or
quarantine are monitored daily until released. This situation is fluid. Guidance and recommendations regarding patients
under investigation may evolve as more is learned.
No additional details will be provided regarding any of the above Iroquois County residents per compliance with 77 Ill.
Adm. Code 1005. Please visit http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/077/07701005sections.html for further
information regarding the Collection, Disclosure, and Confidentiality of Health Statistics.
For zip code level information on confirmed positive COVID-19 cases please visit the IDPH Virtual map at:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/covid19-statistics
For information on long term care facilities with cases of COVID-19 among residents and staff please visit the IDPH map
at:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/long-term-care-facility-outbreaks-covid-19
The Iroquois County Public Health Department is reporting congregate data regarding COVID-19. In an effort to clarify
this data, we would like to provide a brief explanation. A confirmed case is an individual residing in Iroquois County who
has a positive laboratory confirmation of COVID-19. The total confirmed case numbers we report includes all individuals
who have tested positive, regardless of their current status. This number will never decrease. Recovered cases are
individuals who tested positive and after a period of ten days, are afebrile (fever free without fever-reducing medication)
for at least 72 hours and respiratory symptoms have improved. These recovered cases are then released from isolation by
the health department.
This is a rapidly evolving situation and the Iroquois County Public Health Department will provide updated information
and guidance as it becomes available on our Iroquois County Public Health Department Facebook page and website at
http://www.co.iroquois.il.us/covid-19-corona-virus/ 

Ford County Public Health Department (FCPHD) is announcing three new confirmed cases. The individuals include a female in
her 30’s, a female in her 40’s, and a male in his 80’s.
Ford County has a total of 40 confirmed cases. There has been one COVID-19 related death. These numbers are accurate as of
the release time. Public health officials continue to investigate and contact all individuals who may have had exposure to
individuals that tested positive for COVID-19. Federal privacy restrictions prohibit the release of any further information.
FCPHD continues to encourage all residents to conduct preventive measures, including practicing three key steps (The 3 W’s):
wash your hands, watch your distance, and wear a face covering. COVID-19 appears to spread from person-to-person mainly
with close contact (less than 6 feet), but may also be spread by a surface that has the virus and then touching one’s mouth,
nose, or possibly one’s eyes. Illinois Department of Public Health states that the spread is through respiratory droplets
produced when an infected person speaks, coughs or sneezes.
COVID-19 in Illinois
• For zip code level information on confirmed positive COVID-19 cases, please visit IDPH Virtual map at:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/covid19-statistics. Please note, data will not be shown unless a zip code has six or
more confirmed cases. This is consistent with Collection, Disclosure, and Confidentiality of Health Statistics (77 Ill. Adm.
Code 1005). Zip code areas 60957 and 60936 are being reported.
• For information on long term care facilities with cases of COVID-19 among residents and staff, please visit:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/long-term-care-facility-outbreaks-covid-19. Information provided at this link is
provisional, subject to change, and updated weekly. Facilities report data to their local health departments, which in-turn
report to IDPH, so lag time and discrepancies are to be expected.
• For county-level COVID-19 risk metrics, please visit: http://dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics.
• For information on Restore Illinois and Phase 4, please visit: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/restore.
• For a listing of COVID-19 testing sites in Illinois, please visit: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/testing. This is not a
comprehensive list of testing sites. Locations are continuously being added as information is provided. Some locations have
asked not to be named.
Please continue to visit our website (www.fordcountyphd.org) and follow our Facebook page for additional COVID-19
resources and updates. For general questions about COVID-19, call the Illinois Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Hotline at
1(800) 889-3931 or send an email to: DPH.SICK@ILLINOIS.GOV anytime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

A Milford man was indicted by an Iroquois County grand jury July 1 on murder charges.

Jason P. Fancher, 47, was indicted on two counts of murder with intent to kill/injure in connection with the death of Pam Williams, 54, Martinton, Dec. 13, 2019, said Iroquois County Assistant States Attorney Alex O’Brien.

During the early morning hours of that date, Williams’ body was discovered outside of Sheldon by a passerby.

The following morning, Brian Musk, 50, Milford, was found murdered in his apartment at Milford Auto and Truck Parts.

An investigation into the homicides found them to be related and Matthew W. Borden of Melvin was identified as a suspect in both murders.

Watseka Police arrested Nicholas A. Spring, 26, Watseka, in the 600 block of North Jefferson at 3:57 p.m. July 1. Spring was arrested for driving while his license is revoked and was taken to the Iroquois County Jail.

Watseka Police investigated a two-vehicle accident in the 400 block of West Walnut at 4:18 p.m. July 1. According to police reports, Zackery R. Tobeck, 16, Watseka, was driving his vehicle and failed to notice a vehicle driven by Kendall R. Kupferer, 34, Watseka, that was stopped in traffic, causing Tobeck to strike the Kupferer vehicle. No injuries were reported and no citations were issued. Damage was estimated at more than $1,500.

Ford County Public Health Department (FCPHD) is announcing one new confirmed case. The individual is a female in her 50’s.
Ford County has a total of 34 confirmed cases. There has been one COVID-19 related death. These numbers are accurate as of
the release time. Public health officials continue to investigate and contact all individuals who may have had exposure to
individuals that tested positive for COVID-19. Federal privacy restrictions prohibit the release of any further information.
FCPHD continues to encourage all residents to conduct preventive measures, including practicing three key steps (The 3 W’s):
wash your hands, watch your distance, and wear a face covering. COVID-19 appears to spread from person-to-person mainly
with close contact (less than 6 feet), but may also be spread by a surface that has the virus and then touching one’s mouth,
nose, or possibly one’s eyes. Illinois Department of Public Health states that the spread is through respiratory droplets
produced when an infected person speaks, coughs or sneezes.
COVID-19 in Illinois
• For zip code level information on confirmed positive COVID-19 cases, please visit IDPH Virtual map at:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/covid19-statistics. Please note, data will not be shown unless a zip code has six or
more confirmed cases. This is consistent with Collection, Disclosure, and Confidentiality of Health Statistics (77 Ill. Adm.
Code 1005). Zip code areas 60957 and 60936 are being reported.
• For information on long term care facilities with cases of COVID-19 among residents and staff, please visit:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/long-term-care-facility-outbreaks-covid-19. Information provided at this link is
provisional, subject to change, and updated weekly. Facilities report data to their local health departments, which in-turn
report to IDPH, so lag time and discrepancies are to be expected.
• For county-level COVID-19 risk metrics, please visit: http://dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics.
• For information on Restore Illinois and Phase 4, please visit: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/restore.
• For a listing of COVID-19 testing sites in Illinois, please visit: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/testing. This is not a
comprehensive list of testing sites. Locations are continuously being added as information is provided. Some locations have
asked not to be named.
Please continue to visit our website (www.fordcountyphd.org) and follow our Facebook page for additional COVID-19
resources and updates. For general questions about COVID-19, call the Illinois Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Hotline at
1(800) 889-3931 or send an email to: DPH.SICK@ILLINOIS.GOV anytime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

As of 07/02/2020 Iroquois County has 162 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases of COVID-19. At the time of this
press release the Iroquois County Public Health Department has received 2,792 test results for COVID-19. Of the 2,791
results, 2,629 have been negative and 162 have been positive. Here is the information that we can release about our recent
cases:
? Case 161: Male in his 60’s
? Case 162: Female in her 40’s
Of the 162 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases, 144 have recovered and have been released from isolation,
0 are hospitalized, 13 remain isolated at home and 5 have passed away. We extend our prayers and deepest
condolences to the family, friends, and community members affected by these losses.
Our Communicable Disease nurses are working tirelessly to complete investigations, conduct contact tracing and notify
anyone determined to be at increased risk of exposure. All individuals under health department mandated isolation or
quarantine are monitored daily until released. This situation is fluid. Guidance and recommendations regarding patients
under investigation may evolve as more is learned.
No additional details will be provided regarding any of the above Iroquois County residents per compliance with 77 Ill.
Adm. Code 1005. Please visit http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/077/07701005sections.html for further
information regarding the Collection, Disclosure, and Confidentiality of Health Statistics.
For zip code level information on confirmed positive COVID-19 cases please visit the IDPH Virtual map at:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/covid19-statistics
For information on long term care facilities with cases of COVID-19 among residents and staff please visit the IDPH map
at:
https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/long-term-care-facility-outbreaks-covid-19
The Iroquois County Public Health Department is reporting congregate data regarding COVID-19. In an effort to clarify
this data, we would like to provide a brief explanation. A confirmed case is an individual residing in Iroquois County who
has a positive laboratory confirmation of COVID-19. The total confirmed case numbers we report includes all individuals
who have tested positive, regardless of their current status. This number will never decrease. Recovered cases are
individuals who tested positive and after a period of ten days, are afebrile (fever free without fever-reducing medication)
for at least 72 hours and respiratory symptoms have improved. These recovered cases are then released from isolation by
the health department.
This is a rapidly evolving situation and the Iroquois County Public Health Department will provide updated information
and guidance as it becomes available on our Iroquois County Public Health Department Facebook page and website at
http://www.co.iroquois.il.us/covid-19-corona-virus/ 

As of 07/01/2020 Iroquois County has 160 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases of COVID-19. At the time of this press release the Iroquois County Public Health Department has received 2,710 test results for COVID-19. Of the 2,710 results, 2,550 have been negative and 160 have been positive. Here is the information that we can release about our recent cases: ? Case 158: Female in her 30’s ? Case 159: Female in her 20’s ? Case 160: Female in her 60’s Of the 160 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases, 135 have recovered and have been released from isolation, 0 are hospitalized, 20 remain isolated at home and 5 have passed away. We extend our prayers and deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community members affected by these losses. Our Communicable Disease nurses are working tirelessly to complete investigations, conduct contact tracing and notify anyone determined to be at increased risk of exposure. All individuals under health department mandated isolation or quarantine are monitored daily until released. This situation is fluid. Guidance and recommendations regarding patients under investigation may evolve as more is learned. No additional details will be provided regarding any of the above Iroquois County residents per compliance with 77 Ill. Adm. Code 1005. Please visit http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/077/07701005sections.html for further information regarding the Collection, Disclosure, and Confidentiality of Health Statistics. For zip code level information on confirmed positive COVID-19 cases please visit the IDPH Virtual map at: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/covid19-statistics For information on long term care facilities with cases of COVID-19 among residents and staff please visit the IDPH map at: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/long-term-care-facility-outbreaks-covid-19 The Iroquois County Public Health Department is reporting congregate data regarding COVID-19. In an effort to clarify this data, we would like to provide a brief explanation. A confirmed case is an individual residing in Iroquois County who has a positive laboratory confirmation of COVID-19. The total confirmed case numbers we report includes all individuals who have tested positive, regardless of their current status. This number will never decrease. Recovered cases are individuals who tested positive and after a period of ten days, are afebrile (fever free without fever-reducing medication) for at least 72 hours and respiratory symptoms have improved. These recovered cases are then released from isolation by the health department. This is a rapidly evolving situation and the Iroquois County Public Health Department will provide updated information and guidance as it becomes available on our Iroquois County Public Health Department Facebook page and website at http://www.co.iroquois.il.us/covid-19-corona-virus/  

Secretary of State Jesse White and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) announced two new laws that take effect July 1 which establish tougher penalties for drivers who seriously injure others while texting and driving and for those who cause severe injury to pedestrians. “These laws enhance the penalties for drivers who seriously injure others because of texting and driving,” said White. “Drivers who are negligent by texting and driving or disregarding pedestrians are putting others in grave danger. I urge drivers never to text while driving and to always be mindful of yielding to pedestrians.”

The first law, Public Act 101-0090, amends the Illinois Vehicle Code (IVC) by establishing a 12-month license suspension and minimum fine of $1,000 for a motorist who, while texting and driving, causes great bodily harm, permanent disability or disfigurement to another person.

The second law, Public Act 101-0470 also referred to as Mason's Law amends the IVC by establishing a 12-month license suspension for a motorist who, while violating the right-of-way at crosswalks and in school zones, causes serious injury to another person. “Distracted driving and the safety of pedestrians remain among our biggest challenges to get the number of traffic deaths where it should be: Zero,” said Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “I thank Gov. Pritzker for signing the bills.

These laws will make drivers think twice about the life-and-death decisions they make behind the wheel.” White also reminds drivers to be safe during the holiday weekend. “Celebrate the holiday weekend safely and responsibly by not driving distracted or impaired,” said White

As of 06/30/2020 Iroquois County has 157 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases of COVID-19. The Iroquois County Public Health Department has not received any additional positive test results for COVID-19 today. Of the 2,658 test results for COVID-19 received, 2,501 have been negative and 157 have been positive. Of the 157 individuals with laboratory confirmed cases, 134 have recovered and have been released from isolation, 0 are hospitalized, 18 remain isolated at home and 5 have passed away. We extend our prayers and deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community members affected by these losses. Our Communicable Disease nurses are working tirelessly to complete investigations, conduct contact tracing and notify anyone determined to be at increased risk of exposure. The situation is fluid. Guidance and recommendations regarding patients under investigation may evolve as more is learned. No additional details will be provided regarding any of the above Iroquois County residents per compliance with 77 Ill. Adm. Code 1005. Please visit http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/077/07701005sections.html for further information regarding the Collection, Disclosure, and Confidentiality of Health Statistics. For zip code level information on confirmed positive COVID-19 cases please visit the IDPH Virtual map at: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/covid19-statistics For information on long term care facilities with cases of COVID-19 among residents and staff please visit the IDPH map at: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/long-term-care-facility-outbreaks-covid-19 The Iroquois County Public Health Department is reporting congregate data regarding COVID-19. In an effort to clarify this data, we would like to provide a brief explanation. A confirmed case is an individual residing in Iroquois County who has a positive laboratory confirmation of COVID-19. The total confirmed case numbers we report includes all individuals who have tested positive, regardless of their current status. This number will never decrease. Recovered cases are individuals who tested positive and after a period of ten days, are afebrile (fever free without fever-reducing medication) for at least 72 hours and respiratory symptoms have improved. These recovered cases are then released from isolation by the health department. This is a rapidly evolving situation and the Iroquois County Public Health Department will provide updated information and guidance as it becomes available on our Iroquois County Public Health Department Facebook page and website at http://www.co.iroquois.il.us/covid-19-corona-virus/  

Watseka Family Festival
2020
Craft & Flea Market Vendors Needed

Date: August 29th, 8AM-5PM & August 30th, 8AM-3PM At Legion Park in Watseka Il. This will be a rain or shine event.


                             For information or to request an application please call Jason Cahoe 815-383-4194 or Mary Cahoe 815-383-6504 or for a complete festival schedule please visit  "Watseka Family Festival" on Facebook.  Application requests can be made through Facebook messenger as well.