On Friday, October 28, 2022, at approximately 5:31 a.m., Kankakee Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group (KAMEG) Agents, assisted by the Illinois State Police SWAT and the Bradley Police Department, arrested 36-year-old Antonio J. Paige of Kankakee, IL. Paige was arrested following a search warrant at this residence, 1185 East Merchant Street, Kankakee, in conjunction with an ongoing narcotics investigation. The search warrant execution resulted in the seizure of one loaded handgun approximately 54 grams of suspected crack cocaine, approximately 17 grams of suspected cocaine, approximately 3.2 grams of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and United States Currency. Paige, who is currently on parole with the Illinois Department of Corrections, has been initially charged with Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance between 15 and 100 grams, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver within 500 Feet of a Park, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, and Possession of a Firearm by a Gang Member. Paige was transported to and detained at the Jerome Combs Detention Center in Kankakee County. KAMEG reminds the public to call KAMEG at (815) 933-1710 to report non-emergency information about drug dealing and gang problems. We recognize our partnership with the public is important for quality of life issues for our citizens and children. 

 On October 27, 2022, the Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Zone 3 officials arrested 23-year-old Jaron M. Shannon Kankakee, IL for one count of Unlawful Sale of a Firearm (Class 2 Felony), one count Unlawful Sale of a Firearm (Class 3 Felony), one count of Unlawful Purchase of a Firearm (Class 2 Felony) and ten counts of Failure to Maintain Records of a Firearm Sale (Class A Misdemeanor).

On December 29, 2021, at approximately 9:41 p.m., the Bradley Police Department responded to the Comfort Inn, 1500 north State Route 50, for reported dogs barking in an unattended vehicle which was parked in the parking lot. Sergeant Marlene Rittmanic was shot and killed.  Officer Tyler Bailey was also shot and critically wounded.  Darius Sullivan and Xandria Harris were subsequently arrested for First Degree Murder.

ISP DCI Zone 3 Agents conducted an investigation into the firearm used on December 29th. Through the investigation, it was discovered Jaron M. Shannon originally purchased the firearm. On October 27, 2022, Shannon was taken into custody by ISP Zone 3 agents and lodged at the Jerome Combs Detention Center (Kankakee County) on the above listed charges.   On October 28, 2022, Shannon appeared in court and was issued a bond of $500,000, 10% to apply.

“Earlier today we charged Jaron Shannon as a ‘straw-purchaser’ of no fewer than 2 firearms and with unlawfully transferring no fewer than 10 firearms.  We know all too well the consequences of firearms falling into the hands of those who should not possess them; in fact, many of the firearms purchased by Jaron Shannon have been used by others in the commission of a crime, including a juvenile offender.  One of the firearms is alleged to have been used in the murder of Bradley Police Sgt. Marlene Rittmanic and attempt murder of Bradley Police Officer Tyler Bailey.  I thank the Illinois State Police for continuing to pursue every lead and every offender connected to those tragic events.  Shannon is the 8^th defendant now charged with a connection to that crime. As we continue to pursue justice for Marlene and Tyler, we ask that anyone else with information related to the unlawful possession or sale of a firearm contact local law enforcement before tragedy strikes again.” – Jim Rowe, Kankakee County State’s Attorney.

ISP DCI Zone 3 is continuing to follow-up on all leads.  ISP encourages the public to continue to provide information regarding this incident. You can call the ISP at 815-698-2315 or Crime Stoppers at 815-93-CRIME.  Callers can remain anonymous.  No further information is available.

Shortly after 8 AM on 26th October 2022, a nitric acid leak was discovered coming from a semi-tractor trailer that was parked at the Pilot Travel Center in Gilman, Illinois. Emergency responders, led by Gilman Fire Protection District, were called to the scene and ensured the safety of all present. A private cleanup crew was called in to remediate the spill. Overnight, the cleanup crew suffered an equipment failure that led to more nitric acid being spilled. Private cleanup crews are working with Gilman Fire Protection District, Iroquois County EMA, Illinois EPA, and Pilot Travel Center to finish remediation. Throughout the event, there have been no injuries, and the only interruption to business was to bulk diesel fueling, which has since been restored to bull operations. 

On Oct. 19 Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Sullivan J. Chem, 19, of Onarga. According to police reports, Sullivan was charged with aggravated assault. Chem was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond.

Accidents: On Oct,. 18 Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police investigated a two-vehicle accident on County Road 2850 East in front of a private drive at 1117 North. A vehicle driven by Robert Shore, 69, of Rankin, was northbound on 2850 East. A vehicle driven by Michelle R. Brown, 53, of Hoopeston, was also northbound on 2850 East. Shore was a following Brown and tempted to pass Brown while shew as beginning to turn left into the private drive. Brown struck the side of Shore’s vehicle causing more than $,1500 in damage to Brown’s vehicle No injuries were reported and no citations were issued.

On Oct. 20 Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police investigated a car versus deer accident on County Road 1900 North in front of 1157 East. A vehicle driven by Kelly J. Hull, 44, of rural Watseka, was westbound on 1900 North when a deer entered the roadway. Hull was unable to avoid the deer, striking it and causing more than $1,500 in damage. No injuries were reported and no citations were issued.

Arrests: On Oct. 19 Milford Police arrested Danyel L. Fader, 42, of Milford. cording to police reports, Fader was charged with domestic battery. Fader as transported to the Iroquois County Jail in lieu of bond.

On Saturday, October 29, 2022, from 10:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m., the Kankakee Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group (KAMEG), Kankakee Police Department, Bradley Police Department, Bourbonnais Police Department, Kankakee County Sheriff’s Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public its next opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.  Please bring your unwanted medications for disposal to the Northfield Square Mall at 1600 North State Route 50 in Bourbonnais, Illinois.  A Drive-Thru, drop off system will be utilized in the east parking lot by the entrance near LensCrafters. If there is inclement weather, it will be held inside the mall near LensCrafters. 

This service is free, anonymous, and no questions will be asked.  Officers from KAMEG will be stationed to accept medications.  According to KAMEG Director Clayt Wolfe, “The program is a success in our area due to continued public support.  During the past two collections, officers have collected over 2,000 pounds of unwanted prescription drugs.” A drive-thru location in the east parking lot of Northfield Square Mall, by the entrance near LensCrafters will be utilized this year. Director Wolfe reminds the public that needles and syringes are NOT accepted during the event. All liquids need to be tightly sealed in their original containers.

Director Wolfe also advised that most police departments have permanent drug drop boxes.  Area residents are encouraged to contact their local law enforcement agencies to determine exact locations and hours of availability.

The DEA reports that the response to the National Prescription Drug Take Back Initiative has been overwhelmingly positive.  In the previous Take-Back events nationwide, approximately 2,500 tons of drugs were collected.    By participating in the program, the community helps prevent potential safety and health hazards associated with improper prescription drug disposal.

This initiative provides an opportunity for the public to safely dispose of pharmaceutical controlled substances and other medications that were not previously collected or have accumulated since the last event.  Also, assisting KAMEG with this program is the Pledge for Life Partnership, Kankakee County Health Department, Riverside Healthcare, State Representative Jackie Haas and State Senator Patrick Joyce.

On Wednesday, October 12, 2022, Kankakee Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group (KAMEG) Agents, assisted by the United States Marshall Service, the Kankakee Police Department, and Tri-County Auto Theft Task Force, conducted a warrant sweep, which included two search warrant executions, based on KAMEG investigations. During the warrant sweep, the following individuals were arrested:

Randolph Douglas, age 29, was arrested following a search warrant at his residence, 210 Tedmark Court, Apt. #5, Kankakee, in conjunction with an ongoing narcotics investigation. The search warrant execution resulted in the seizure of approximately 73 grams of suspected cocaine, 81 grams of suspected cannabis, approximately 2.4 grams of suspected psilocybin mushrooms, 107 suspected Xanax pills, and a loaded brown Sig Sauer 9mm handgun with an extended magazine.

Douglas has been charged with Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance (4 counts), Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Deliver between 30 and 500 grams, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver, Unlawful Use of a Weapon/No FOID, Felon in Possession of Firearm, Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance.

Cory Trapp, age 44,  was arrested following a search warrant at his residence, 202 Crestlane Drive, Apt. #203, Kankakee, in conjunction with an ongoing narcotics investigation. The search warrant execution resulted in the seizure of approximately 1,500 grams of suspected cannabis, drug paraphernalia, and a loaded Glock .45 caliber handgun with a loaded extended magazine.

Trapp has been charged with Unlawful Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Deliver between 500 and 2,000 grams and Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon/No FOID.

Takelia Dorsey, age 34, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance between 1 and 15 grams. Upon her arrest, she was found in possession of approximately 2.4 grams of suspected crack cocaine. Dorsey was also charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver and Child Endangerment.

Jawan Smith, age 24, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance. Smith is also on Federal Parole and will be held per the parole violation.

Calvin Wright, age 36, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance (2 counts). Wright is also on Federal Parole and will be held per the parole violation.

Leonard Green, age 39, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

Bobbi Prindle, age 36, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

Elton Pendleton, age 52, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

Darryl Hollis, age 57, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

All subjects were transported to and detained at the Jerome Combs Detention Center (Kankakee County).

KAMEG reminds the public to call KAMEG at (815) 933-1710 to report non-emergency information about drug dealing and gang problems.  We recognize our partnership with the public is important for quality of life issues for our citizens and children.   

A South Carolina man was charged several drug charges after a report of a reckless driver was investigated in Watseka.

Pete Gorman, 30, North August, South Carolina, was charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, driving under the influence of drugs, DUI and driving while license suspended.

According to Watseka Police reports, police received call at 2:21 p.m. Oct. 11 of a reckless driver who was eastbound on U.S. 24.

The vehicle was located a short time later in a private parking lot. Officers made contact with the person, later identified as Gorman, and he eventually was placed into custody for suspected DUI.

Officers conducted a search incident to arrest of the person and located an opaque orange container containing multiple prescription narcotics. Police also located $12,922 in currency in Gorman’s pocket. That money was seized as well.

Gorman was taken to the Iroquois County Jail where he later was released.

 Illinois State Police (ISP) District 21 Commander, Captain Gregg Cavanaugh, announces the ISP will conduct Special Traffic Enforcement Patrols (sTEP) in Kankakee, Iroquois, and Ford Counties on October 15, 2022. These sTEPs allow the ISP to focus on these fatal four violations which contribute the greatest to traffic crashes and fatalities: - Driving Under the Influence (DUI); - Safety Belt and Child Restraint use; - Speeding; and, - Distracted Driving. The ISP will increase our daytime and nighttime patrols to ensure the safety of vehicle travelers through enforcement of all traffic safety laws. Impaired driving is a factor in more than 30 percent of traffic deaths in Illinois. Likewise, speeding is a factor in nearly 35 percent of fatal crashes; and, nearly 50 percent of vehicle occupants killed in traffic crashes were known to not be buckled up. This project is funded through the Illinois Department of Transportation.

 Illinois State Police (ISP) District 21 Commander, Captain Gregg Cavanaugh, announces the ISP will conduct Occupant Restraint Enforcement Patrols (OREP) in Kankakee, Iroquois, and Ford Counties on October 13th and October 31st. OREPs allow the ISP to focus on safety belt and child safety seat laws. Illinois law requires all vehicle passengers (front and back) to be buckled up. Safety belts are still one of the most effective safety devices in vehicles, estimated to save nearly 14,000 lives each year. Half of vehicle occupants killed in a traffic crash were not properly buckled up. The objective of this program is to increase occupant restraint compliance through education, child seat inspections, and enforcement. 

On October 5, 2022, the Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Zone 3 officials arrested Xavier Harris, 22-year-old male of Bradley, IL for two counts of Obstructing Justice (Class 4 Felony), and two counts of Concealing or Aiding a Fugitive (Class 4 Felony).

On December 29, 2021, at approximately 9:41 p.m., the Bradley Police Department responded to the Comfort Inn, 1500 north State Route 50, for reported dogs barking in an unattended vehicle which was parked in the parking lot. Sergeant Marlene Rittmanic was shot and killed.  Officer Tyler Bailey was also shot and critically wounded.  Darius Sullivan and Xandria Harris were subsequently arrested for First Degree Murder.

On October 7, 2022 Xavier Harris was issued a bond of $75,000, 10% to apply. Harris is jailed at the Jerome Combs Detention Center in Kankakee, IL.

“Today’s charges are the result of our collective commitment to ensure that every individual who aided and assisted in the events of December 29, 2021, are held accountable.  I commend the Illinois State Police for never giving up and for continuing to bring all involved to justice.  Including the four offenders charged by Indiana authorities, this Defendant is the 7^th to be charged overall.” – Kankakee County State’s Attorney, Jim Rowe.

ISP DCI Zone 3 is continuing to follow-up on all leads.  ISP encourages the public to continue to provide information regarding this incident. You can call the ISP at 815-698-2315 or Crime Stoppers at 815-93-CRIME.  Callers can remain anonymous.  To protect the integrity of the open and ongoing investigation, there is no further information at this time.

On September 28th, 2022, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested David C. Readus, age 52, of Danville. According to police reports, Readus was wanted on an Iroquois County warrant for failure to appear on a traffic offense. Readus was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond.

On September 28th, 2022, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Savione M. Sanders, age 27, of Dwight. According to police reports, Sanders was wanted on an Iroquois County warrant for animal torture and aggravated cruelty to animals. Sanders was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond.

On September 28th, 2022, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested James F. Koch Jr., age 55, of rural Watseka_ According to police reports, Koch was wanted on an Iroquois County warrant for failure to appear on a burglary charge and also a Fountain County, IN warrant, Koch was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond,

On September 29th, 2022, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Austin M. Archer, age 28, of Watseka, According to police reports, Archer was charged with possession of methamphetamines under 5 grams, Archer was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond,

On September 29th,2022, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Heather C. Pelehowski, age 49, of Donovan. According to police reports, Pelehowski was wanted on an Iroquois County warrant for aggravated DUI. Pelehowski was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where she remains in lieu of bond.

On September 30th, 2022, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police investigated a two-vehicle accident In front of 512 E. Park Ave. in Gilman. According to police reports, a vehicle being driven by Dana M. Cobb, age 42, of Gilman was backing from a private parking area. A vehicle being driven by Miguel Vergara, age 55, of Onarga, was traveling westbound on E, Park Ave. Cobb failed to yield to Vergara, resulting in the rear of Cobb’s vehicle striking the passenger side of Vergara’s vehicle. There was over $1500 in damage to both vehicles. No citations were issued and no injuries were reported.

On October 1”, 2022, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police investigated a single vehicle accident that occurred on County Rd 2400 N near 1518 E. According to police reports, a vehicle being driven by Noah J. Martin, age 20, of rural Watseka was traveling westbound or 2400 N. Martin was briefly distracted by his cell phone and failed to negotiate the curve after the west side of the bridge. The vehicle then entered the south ditch/embankment and caused over $1500 in damage. Martin was transported by a friend to IMH for non-life-threatening injuries. No citations were issued.

The Crescent-Iroquois Community Unit School District #249 Board of Education and administration of Crescent City Grade School have set a meeting to discuss the deactivation of Crescent City Grade School's junior high. This meeting will take place at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6, at the Crescent City Community Center. It is open to all those with an interest in CCGS, including parents, staff and the general public.

What the board has put on the ballot is an item in which voters will decide whether or not to deactivate the junior high, which is grades 6-7-8. Also to be discussed are district finances, staffing issues and the status of Crescent-Iroquois High School. These are important issues which need to be addressed so anyone with an interest is welcome to attend. It is stressed, the issue is to deactivate the junior high, not consolidate with another district.

In regards to the deactivation of the junior high, if the issue is passed, the junior high students will then have the same options as high school students, which is to attend one of three receiving schools. Currently, the three receiving schools are in Cissna Park, Gilman and Watseka. In the event the junior high is deactivated, Crescent City Grade School would become a K-5 institution.

WHAT:                      Two Vehicle Fatal Traffic Crash

WHERE:                   Illinois Route 17 at 16000 East Road, Kankakee County

WHEN:                      September 30, 2022 at approximately 9:31 p.m.

VEHICLES:              Unit 1 – 2016 Blue Chevrolet Sonic

                                    Unit 2 – 2022 White Peterbilt Truck-Tractor/Tank Trailer

DRIVERS:                 Unit 1 – John E. Niles, 35-year-old male from Cedar Lake, IN – Deceased

                                    Unit 2 – David W. Nagel, 60-year-old male from Green Bay, WI– Minor Injuries

PRELIMINARY:      A preliminary investigation indicates the following occurred: Unit 1 was traveling northbound on 16000 East Road near the intersection of Illinois Route 17. Unit 2 was traveling westbound on Illinois Route 17 near 16000 East Road. Unit 1 failed to yield to a stop sign, entered the intersection, and struck Unit 2’s empty tank trailer. The driver of Unit 1 was pronounced deceased on scene. The driver of Unit 2 was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries. Illinois Route 17 near 16000 East Road was closed for the investigation until approximately 2:45 a.m. No further information is available at this time.