FIRE CALL 22-0010

Time: 00:51

Location: 200 Blk E Main St

Details: HFD was called to the above location for a CO2 detector activation. The owner of the building and Ameren was requested to respond by the Fire Chief. The scene was turned over to the building owners. No reports of injuries.

FIRE CALL 22-0011

Time: 04:16

Location: 500 Blk N 6th Ave.

Details: HFD was called to the above location reference a fire alarm activation. HPD and HFD both responded. Officers on scene reported nothing showing. HFD cleared the scene with nothing showing.

Burglary to Business H22-0361

Time: 06:30 AM

Location: KBA Limited 100 N 1st Avenue

Details: At the above time and location, Owners reported that person(s) unknown and without any permission entered onto the property. Forced Entry to a building and removed property. Investigation continues.

CRIMINAL TRESPASS TO REAL PROP, RESISTING/OBSTRUCTING A PEACE OFFICER H22-0373

Time: 08:17

Location: 112 E Main Street 112 Wine & Coffee shop

Arrested: Linsey M Warner (33) (F) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD was called to the above business ref Ms. Warner inside causing problem. She was previously barred from the property. After a short foot chase (while she was in hand cuffs) she was placed under arrest. She was transported to the PD where she was processed and released with a mandatory court date.

Disobeying Police (CITY) H22-0389

Time: 6:58am

Location: 500 blk of S 6th Ave

Arrested: Breanna M Johnson(22)(F) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were called to the above location for a report of Domestic Disturbance. Ms.

Johnson was located and transported to HPD for processing and later released with a

City notice to appear.

Aggravated Domestic Battery H22-0391 2022-0828

Time: 9:36am

Location: 300 blk of W Washington St.

Complainant: 22 year old Female of Hoopeston

Arrested: William J Rossolillie Jr(23)(M) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were dispatched to the above location for a report of Domestic Disturbance.

Mr. Rossolille was located and transported to HPD for processing and later transported

to the PSB.

An Illinois man was surfing a pornographic website moments before his tractor-trailer collided with a tar tanker near Lowell, killing the road construction worker who was driving, prosecutors say.

Clark R. Johnson, 69, of Hoopeston, Illinois, was charged Monday with reckless homicide, two counts of criminal recklessness and three counts of misdemeanor distracted driving. He was ordered held on a $4,000 cash bond, the Post-Tribune reported.

The crash occurred at 8:40 a.m. on Aug. 25, 2020, on U.S. 41 in Lowell. Martin Knip, 63, of LaPorte and DeMotte, was killed.

Johnson was treated for minor injuries at a hospital, charges state.

A witness told police he was in a pickup truck behind Knip’s tanker a semitrailer came speeding down a construction zone in their lane. The semitrailer struck the pickup’s rear left corner and then the tanker, causing the tanker to roll over.

At the time, Knip was spraying hot tar on the road shoulder, charges state.

Johnson told hospital workers he was driving 55-65 mph (88-105 kilometers per hour) at the time of the crash. He suffered a forehead cut and a fractured finger, according to hospital records.

Police later found the porn website on Johnson’s cellphone, documents said.

Darren Monroe, age 57, was found guilty Thursday by a Vermilion County Jury of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault, a Class X Felony, and Aggravated Domestic Battery, a Class 2 Felony. During the trial, presided over by Hon. Charles Hall, the Jury heard testimony from the victim, T.M., how her estranged husband, Monroe, entered her home in December of 2019, beat her about the face and head, strangled her, made her remove her clothing, and sexually assaulted her. Medical testimony was presented that Monroe fractured the victim's orbital bone, broke her nose, and caused extensive bruising to the victim's head, neck, and chest. Also, evidence was collected during an ensuing sexual assault examination after the crimes, and through testing by the Illinois State Police (ISP) Crime Laboratory, Monroe's DNA was located on the vaginal swabs obtained from the victim.

Monroe chose to testify in the case, and during cross examination by the prosecution, claimed that the victim actually raped him. He claimed that after he beat and strangled her, she begged him for sex. When he refused, according to Monroe, she forced herself onto him. The Jury clearly rejected Monroe's version of events.

After the verdicts were rendered, Judge Hall revoked Monroe's bond, and scheduled the matter for sentencing to occur on March 16, 2022. Monroe faces a sentencing range of nine (9) years to forty-four (44) years of imprisonment, all of which must be served at 85%. Any sentence he receives will be followed by three (3) years to life of Mandatory Supervised Release (i.e., Parole), and he will be required to register as a Sex Offender for the remainder of his days.

State's Attorney Jacqueline Lacy expressed her appreciativeness of the victim's courage in this case, including: her prompt reporting of Monroe's crimes; her enduring a sexual assault examination; and her remaining steadfast for over two years to obtain justice. The State's Attorney also thanked the Vermilion County Sheriff and his Deputies, medical staff at Carle Hospital, Urbana, and forensic scientists at the ISP Crime Laboratory involved in this matter, and noted that their combined efforts and cooperation helped ensure that a sex offender will properly spend a significant period of time behind bars.

Traffic Accident H22-0353

Time: 2:23pm

Location: South Market St. and East Penn St.

Unit 1: 2008 Chevrolet Wagon Driven by Keith Bell (M) (51) of Hoopeston

Unit 2: 2015 Mustang Driven by Joanne Gress (F) (66) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD Officers were called to the report of an accident with no injuries at the intersection of South Market St. and East Penn St. Driver of Unit 1 was traveling northbound on S Market St. came to the stop sign at E Penn St. Stopped and looked both ways and proceeded through the intersection striking into Unit 2. There was no injuries both vehicles were insured and no tickets were issued Unit 2 was towed by Knuth’s Towing out of Hoopeston.

Operating Hours: Monday - Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sunday: Closed.

Winter Reading Program for all Ages: Cozy up with a good book this winter. Our Winter Reading Program runs from December 20, 2021 to February 28, 2022. Earn books, fun stuff, and tickets to enter drawings for bigger prizes by reading. Register at tinyurl.com/DPL-Reading

February 8: Presidential Marriages & Romances. This one-hour program will offer an entertaining look at the marriages, romances, and love lives of the Presidents. 5:30 p.m. on Zoom Register at bit.ly/DPL-Presidents

February 10: Teen Book Club. We will be hosting our teen subscription box meeting on Zoom this month. Stop by to discuss January’s book, Loki: Where Mischief Lies by Mackenzi Lee. 4:00 p.m. on Zoom Register at bit.ly/DPL-LokiBook

February 11: Learn to Cross-Stitch with Amara! Learn how to create beautiful embroidered projects with Amara from the Reference department! In this program we will talk about what cross stitch is, how it is different from embroidery, and the materials that are used to create projects. 4:00 p.m. on Zoom. Register at tinyurl.com/DPL-Stitch

February 12: Vaccine Clinic. The Illinois Department of Public Health is partnering with Danville Public Library to provide Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines. Pfizer is authorized for ages 12+. Moderna is authorized for ages 18+. Sign up at https://tinyurl.com/IDHP-Vaccine 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Children's Art Challenge: Send us a photo of your (child's) art and we will post it on both Facebook and our Website. Winners will be chosen at the end of the month. Submissions must be family-friendly. February's Challenge is "I Love..." To submit your work visit tinyurl.com/DPL-KidArt

Children's Curbside Craft Kits: Available on a first come first served basis, Danville Public Library has craft kits for children at Curbside Pick Up. This week's craft is a Dr. Seuss Keychain. You can also contact the Children's Dept. at 217-477-5225 to reserve a kit.

Coloring Contest:  Color a picture, win a prize.  Return entries by the end of the month.  Entries will be displayed on the children’s room slat wall.  Winners will be notified.  Ages Preschool to adult.  The February contest begins on January 31.  Pick up coloring sheets at the library or visit https://danvillepubliclibrary.org/coloring-contest

Explore More Illinois: This program allows cardholders to reserve free and discounted admission, parking, and gift store purchases from cultural attractions in Illinois, including museums, cultural centers, zoos, aquariums, gardens, historical societies, park districts, and more. Learn more at exploremore.quipugroup.net/?Danville

Interactive Movie Experience: Play games while you watch your favorite movies! We have game packets available for 101 Dalmatians, Beetlejuice, Black Panther, Coco, Freaky Friday, Frozen, The Goonies, Guardians of the Galaxy, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Home Alone, Hotel Transylvania, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Inside Out, It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown, Karate Kid, Moana, Mulan, The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Santa Clause, and Toy Story.. Available on a first come first served basis. Call 217-477-5225 to reserve your movie packet.

Library Visits: Danville Public Library is going on the road...with a Bookmobile. We're starting with visits to local business and daycares. If you would like us to visit you, please fill out the form at tinyurl.com/DPL-Visits

Memory Lab: The Danville Public Library Memory Lab is now available. The Lab is used to digitize your old photos, home movies, or other old media formats for archival purposes. Full details available at https://danvillepubliclibrary.org/memory-lab/

Museum Adventure Pass: The Museum Adventure Pass program gives library patrons access to free or discounted museum passes in the Chicago area. So before you go on vacation or drive up to visit family, check out museumadventure.org for your Museum Adventure Pass!

Personal Shopping: Do you miss browsing the shelves because you aren't sure what you want? Talk to a librarian about what you like! We'll talk to you about your taste in books or movies and select items that could interest you. We can pick out a selection of books, audiobooks, Music CDs, or DVDs for you to pick up at curbside. Call (217) 477-5228 to talk to a staff member today!

Servicios gratuitos de la biblioteca pública de Danville. ¿No sabe cómo usar algunos de nuestros servicios gratuitos? ¡Tenemos una colección de videos tutoriales para ayudarle! danvillepubliclibrary.org/spanish-guides Spanish Services at Danville Public Library. Not sure how to use some of our services? We have a set of tutorial videos here for you!

StoryWalk®: Enjoy a quiet walk and read a book! We have Fox vs Winter by Corey R. Tabor on our back (South) windows. (The side facing Madison St.)

Tween Subscription Book Box! Our February Box features A Whale of the Wild by Rosanne Parry. Subscription includes a Book Club Meeting in March. Supplies limited. Open to children aged 8-12. To apply and for further details, visit tinyurl.com/DPL-TweenWhale Funded by a grant from Danville Library Foundation.

Used Book Sale: Due to overwhelming popularity, we're keeping our Used Book Sale year-round! Payment is a "pay what you want" donation at the Circulation Desk. Your donation supports Danville Library Foundation and Danville Public Library.

Wonder Garden Club: Create a mini-Zen Garden! Learn how your mini Japanese Zen Garden can help relieve stress, improve focus, and create a sense of well-being. Visit tinyurl.com/DPL-WonderZen or call 217-477-5225. This program is made possible through a partnership with the University of Illinois Extension Office.

YouTube: Catch story times, crafting, and snack-making on Danville Public Library's YouTube page. Visit DanvillePublicLibrary.org or tinyurl.com/DPL-YouTube

 Eastern Illinois Foodbank (EIF) today announced the public phase of its capital campaign for warehouse expansion and improvements. The campaign, More than Food, hopes to raise $3.6 million to support the expansion and renovation of their current facility. To date, EIF has raised $3.3 million, more than 90% of its goal. 

The plan for expansion includes:

·        The addition of warehouse space to allow for improvements in the storage and delivery system and increase the amount of product made available to partner agencies and families

·        Expansion and relocation of refrigeration units to accommodate more fresh and frozen product

·        The addition of a designated volunteer area that will allow utilization of more volunteers to ensure the warehouse is sufficiently supported and increase the food available to partner agencies

·        Adding a second truck docking station to enable more efficient intake and distribution of product

“Even before the pandemic, our facility had reached its limit in both size and suitability. The needs of our community demand we grow, and our Board of Directors and staff have been working on a vision to carry us into the future,” said Kelly Daly, President & CEO of Eastern Illinois Foodbank. “The vision is to be able to meet the needs of every neighbor with dignity and respect.”

At any given time, there are more than 100,000 people in eastern Illinois facing hunger. The expansion and renovations will enable EIF to extend the number of people they serve and increase the amount of fresh, nutritious food that is distributed throughout their 18-county service area. 

The Foodbank accepts thousands of pounds of food each month from distributors, manufacturers, and retailers. As the primary resource of food for local pantries, shelters, and soup kitchens, EIF has been a vital resource for those living with food insecurity in eastern Illinois for the past three decades.

Eastern Illinois Foodbank officially began renovations to their facility in April 2021 when they upgraded their truck docking system to add an additional loading area. Construction on the warehouse expansion is currently planned for summer 2022.

Anyone interested in donating to the campaign, or a complete informational packet about the project, can visit www.eifoodbank.org.

Videos about the vision and impact of the campaign can be found here:

It’s About More Than Food – April’s Story

Fight Hunger and Transform Our Community

Structure Fire (Mutual Aid)

Call Time: 6:12 AM

Clear Time: 8:40 AM

Location: 700 Block E Penn St

Details: HFD, Arrow, HPD, WFD, RFD, all responded to an early morning house fire. Occupant was out of the house. House damage estimates were not available at the time of blotter entry. No reports of Injuries.

*** Note: HFD request to remind the motorist to stay away from fire scene due to equipment spread out over the roadways, and safety of the Fire Team. Please Do Not Drive Across Fire Hoses as it can cause significate damage to the hoses and potential for injury if one ruptures and hits someone.

Illinois State Police (ISP) District 10 Commander, Acting Captain Ryan Starrick, announces the results of Occupant Restraint Enforcement Patrols (OREP) held in Vermilion County during January. These OREPs provided extra patrol coverage for the ISP so officers could focus on saving lives by making sure all vehicle occupants were buckled up.

Violations Enforcement Activity

Safety Belt Citations 29

Child Restraint Citations 1

Total Citations 43

Total Written Warnings 13

Most motorists know safety belts save lives, but some ignore their safety and that of their families by neglecting to use safety belts and child restraint devices. These patrols reinforce the occupant protection message by focusing on those who ignore the law. Lives can be saved if people simply “buckle up!” This project is funded through the Illinois Department of Transportation

Aggravated U.U.W(Unlawful Use of Weapon), U.U.W by a felon, driving while license revoked, Unlawful display of registration, Operating Uninsured motor vehicle. H22-0318 2022-0669

Time: 8:45pm

Location: 715 W Elm St. (Plaza Commons)

Arrested: Troy A. Knight (M) (36) of Hoopeston

Details: Officers conducted a traffic stop on Mr. Knight and he was found with a fire arm and with false plates on the vehicle and no insurance as well. Mr. Knight also had a revoked driver license. Mr. Knight was transported to HPD where he processed and later transported to the Public Safety Building in Danville.

Affording college these days can be a daunting task at times. That’s why Vermilion County Farm Bureau is pleased to announce several programs with scholarships available for Farm Bureau members and others.

Application deadlines vary for each offer. Application forms for all these scholarships can be accessed through the Vermilion County Farm Bureau website – www.vcfb.info.

IAA Foundation Scholarships

Agriculture students and Illinois Farm Bureau® (IFB) members and their children are encouraged to apply for 84 college scholarships offered by the IAA Foundation, Illinois Farm Bureau’s charitable arm. The scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $7,500, will be awarded in total of $164,500 for the 2020-2021 school year. 

An online application form and activities template is available at www.iaafoundation.org. The deadline to submit a completed forms is February 15.

Freese Memorial Scholarship to Help Farm Kids with College

Immanuel Lutheran Church of Flatville is offering scholarships up to $1,000 in memory of Ed and Helen Freese.

This scholarship is available to sons and daughters of farmers residing in Vermilion, Ford, or Champaign Counties, and is available to new and current college students.  It is not limited to an agriculture degree program.

A link to an application form is available at www.vcfb.info. The deadline to submit a completed form is February 15.

Andrews/Brumett Scholarship to Help Vermilion County Grad Attend DACC

Vermilion County Farm Bureau Foundation will again be administering the Andrews/Brumett Memorial Scholarship for 2022.

The Andrews/Brumett Memorial Scholarship was established for the late Clark Andrews and Joe Brumett, Sr., along with their wives Katharyn and Agnes.

A $1,000 scholarship ($500 each for two years) will be awarded to a graduating high school student living in Vermilion County and planning to attend DACC. Criteria for selection includes scholastic achievements, community service and financial need. Priority will be given to Farm Bureau members and dependents.

Applications are available at the Farm Bureau office and online at www.vcfb.info. Completed forms need to be received in the Farm Bureau office by March 15.

Balloon Group Again Sponsors Scholarships for Farm Bureau Members

The Balloon Association of Greater Illinois (BAGI) annually awards a scholarship to a Farm Bureau member student majoring in agriculture or an ag-related program.  This year, BAGI will again be awarding up to four $500 scholarships.

BAGI is a non-profit association organized to promote the sport of hot air ballooning by bringing together pilots and potential crew. 

The scholarship will be awarded on the basis of scholastic ability, community involvement, and/or financial need.  A packet outlining the eligibility requirements and an application are available on the association’s website at www.bagiballoon.org. The application deadline is March 15.

Nurse Practitioner Scholarship Available

Applications are now available for nurse practitioner scholarships through the Illinois Farm Bureau^® Rural Nurse Practitioner Scholarship Program.  Now in its twenty-eighth year, the scholarship program helps encourage and develop the pool of rural health practitioners to help meet primary health care needs in rural Illinois.  Students who receive scholarships agree to practice for two years in an approved rural area in Illinois.

There will be five scholarships, worth $4,000 each, granted this year. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be Illinois residents and be a Registered Nurse accepted or enrolled in an accredited Nurse Practitioner Program. Applications are available online at RIMSAP.com. The application deadline is May 1.

Possession of Methamphetamines, Domestic Battery, Communication with a Witness H22-0306 2022-0629

Time: 7:19pm

Location: 300 blk W Main St

Complainant: 32 year old Hoopeston female

Arrested: Brian Kinnaird (M) (41) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were called to the above location for a 911 hang up. After an investigation, Mr. Kinnaird was arrested for the above charges. Subject was processed and later taken to the PSB to await arraignment.

Warrant Arrest (Vermilion County 21CM422, Champaign County 19CM698) H22-0280 2022-592

Time: 3:50PM

Location: 500 Blk of N 7th Ave

Arrested: Robert L Enlow (52)(M) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers made contact with Mr. Enlow and a computer search showed him to have two outstanding warrants. Mr. Enlow was arrested and transported to HPD for processing. He was later transported to PSB by a Vermilion County Deputy.

Warrant Arrest (Vermilion County 20CF98), Possession of Meth H22-0282 2022-597

Time: 6:01PM

Location: 1000 blk of W Main St

Arrested: Rachel N Harper (39)(F) of Hoopeston

Roger D Catron (63)(M) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers went to the above location to locate Ms. Harper for an outstanding warrant. When she was located and a computer search confirmed she had a warrant through Vermilion County. Mr. Catron was arrested for possession of methamphetamines. Both subjects were taken to HPD for processing and later transported to PSB to await arraignment.

Traffic Accident H22-0283

Time: 6:14pm

Location: Route 1/Route 9

Unit #1: 2019 Ford Edge driven by Sandra Auter (F) (58) of Rossville

Unit #2: 2018 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Aaron Fisher (M) (54) of Fowler, IN

Details: HPD officers were called to the report of an accident at Routes 1&9. Unit #1 was traveling northbound on Route 1 and struck Unit #2 who was traveling eastbound on Route 9. No injuries were reported and both units were insured. Driver of Unit #1 was cited for Disobeying Stop Sign. 

Vermilion County Vaccination Counts

Total Number of Vaccinations Administered (includes 12+):  73,011
Total Number of Boosters Administered:  13,861
Percentage of Fully Vaccinated Population with a Booster Dose:  42.1%
Percentage of Fully Vaccinated 65+ Population with a Booster Dose:  63.9%
Total Number of Vermilion County Residents FULLY vaccinated (includes 12+):  31,410
Percentage of Vermilion County’s TOTAL Population who are FULLY vaccinated:  40.90%
CDC has Vermilion County’s total Vaccination rate at 44.2% (this includes some of the federal programs that do not report to the state) You can look at the county views by going to this website:  CDC Data Tracker
Percentage and Number of those who are 65+ that are fully vaccinated:  73.01% / 10,847
Percentage and Number of those who are 18-64 that are fully vaccinated:   43.38% / 19,026
Percentage and Number of those who are 12-17 that are fully vaccinated:  19.44% / 1,180
Percentage and Number of those who are 5-11 that are fully vaccinated:  4.95% / 350

Vermilion County Case Counts
Number of new reported cases in the last 14 days (1/20):  3,690
New reported cases since noon on 1/20 to noon on 1/21:  366
New hospital admissions (last 7 days as of 1/19):  47
Total Cases (beginning March, 2020):  25,102
Total Deaths:  258

A 22-year-old was arrested Wednesday on a charge of aggravated discharge of a firearm in connection with an early-morning shooting in Loda that left a 19-year-old hospitalized with a gunshot wound to the head.

Colton M. Johnson of Loda was arrested Wednesday evening on the Class 1 felony charge and remained Thursday evening at the county jail in Watseka, according to the Iroquois County Sheriff’s Office.

Bond was set Thursday at $25,000, meaning Johnson would need to pay $2,500 to be released.

The male gunshot victim, whose name was not immediately released, remained in critical condition at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, a news release from the sheriff’s office said.

According to the news release, the shooting occurred at a residence in Loda early Wednesday morning. A 911 call was made from the residence asking for an ambulance for a person who was bleeding from the head, the release said.

Upon paramedics’ arrival, it was discovered the person had suffered a gunshot wound, and the victim was transported to the hospital in critical condition, the release said.

The shooting remained under investigation by the sheriff’s office and Illinois State Police Crime Scene Unit.

“This is an isolated incident,” the release said, “and there is no threat to the community.”

Wanted on Warrant out of Yavapai County in Prescott Valley AZ H22-0258 2022-0530

Time: 4:19pm

Location: 400 Block of W Chestnut

Arrested: Devan M Turner (M) (26) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD Officers conducted a traffic stop where Mr. Turner was found in the car. A computer check showed Mr. Tuner to have a warrant out Yavapai County, AZ. Mr. Turner was transported to HPD where he was processed and later transported to the Public Safety in Danville where he will await extradition from Yavapai County.

Warrant Arrest H22-0261

Time: 9:31pm

Location: 500 blk S 6th Av, Parkview Court

Arrested: Michelle Coffey (F) (45) of Hoopeston

Details: While on patrol, HPD officers stopped to investigate a possible domestic situation. Upon

investigation, a computer check revealed Ms. Coffey had an outstanding Iroquois County

warrant. She was arrested and taken to HPD to be processed. She was later picked up

by an Iroquois County Deputy and taken to their jail in lieu of bond

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White is announcing that all Secretary of State departments will reopen for in-person transactions – including Driver Services facilities – on Monday, Jan. 24. Driver Services facilities operating on a Tuesday – Saturday schedule will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 25. All departments and Driver Services facilities had been closed since Jan. 3 due to the surge of COVID-19 cases statewide. “The health and safety of employees and the public is our top priority,” said White. “Masks and social distancing will be required as we safely reopen all offices and Driver Services facilities.” Customers who wish to schedule an appointment at one of the select Driver Services facilities requiring appointments may do so beginning the morning the facilities reopen. Visit ilsos.gov for a list of Driver Services facilities requiring appointments. As a reminder, White has extended all driver’s license and ID card expiration dates to March 31, 2022. Commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and CDL learner’s permits were extended until Jan. 31, 2022, and covers expiration dates between Nov. 1, 2021 and Jan. 31, 2022. Online services remain available at ilsos.gov. Customers can:

· Renew a license plate sticker.

· Renew a driver’s license or ID card for those who qualify (individuals may call 217-785-1424 to confirm their eligibility or to obtain their PIN).

· Obtain a duplicate driver’s license or ID card.

· Obtain a driver record abstract.

· File Business Services documents, such as incorporations and annual reports. Three Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) facilities are currently open for in-person CDL services only. The CDL facilities are: Rockford at 4734 Baxter Rd., Springfield at 2701 S. Dirksen Pkwy. and Marion at 1905 Rendelman St. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has extended the federal REAL ID deadline to May 3, 2023. For more information, visit ilsos.gov.

The Iroquois County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate an early-morning incident in Loda that left one person hospitalized with a gunshot wound to the head.

The gunshot victim, whose name was not immediately released, was in critical condition Wednesday at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, according to a news release from the sheriff’s office.

The news release said a 911 call was made from a residence in Loda during the early morning Wednesday asking for an ambulance for a person who was bleeding from the head. Upon paramedics’ arrival, it was discovered the person had suffered a gunshot wound, the release said. The victim was transported to the hospital in critical condition, the release said.

The sheriff’s office requested assistance at the scene from the Illinois State Police Crime Scene Unit, the release said.

No other details were released.

“This is an isolated incident,” the release said, “and there is no threat to the community.”

Burglary to Semi Trailer H22-0229

Time: 11 AM

Location: 200 block W Orange St

Complainant: 55-year-old Rossville Man

Details: At the above time the complainant reports that person(s) unknown forced entry to a semi-trailer parked on the lot and removed items. Anyone with information, are asked to contact HPD

Wanted on Warrant H22-0234

Time: 5:37pm

Location: S 3rd St. and E Main St.

Arrested: Joseph D Hart (M) (36) of Hoopeston

Details: Officers Observed Mr. Hart digging around a dumpster in the above area. Officers made contact and a computer search showed Mr. Hart to have Vermilion County Warrant. Mr. Hart was transported to HPD where he was processed and later transported to the PSB in Danville by the Vermilion County Sherriff’s Department.

COVID 19 Daily Updates

As of January 18th, 2022
IDPH Statistics for Vaccination Numbers
https://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/vaccine/vaccine-data?county=Vermilion
Data is pulled from I-CARE.  Data is Provisional.

Vermilion County Vaccination Counts

Total Number of Vaccinations Administered (includes 12+):  72,537
Total Number of Boosters Administered:  13,567
Percentage of Fully Vaccinated Population with a Booster Dose:  40.7%
Percentage of Fully Vaccinated 65+ Population with a Booster Dose:  62.5%
Total Number of Vermilion County Residents FULLY vaccinated (includes 12+):  31,321
Percentage of Vermilion County’s TOTAL Population who are FULLY vaccinated:  40.78%
CDC has Vermilion County’s total Vaccination rate at 43.9% (this includes some of the federal programs that do not report to the state) You can look at the county views by going to this website:  CDC Data Tracker
Percentage and Number of those who are 65+ that are fully vaccinated:  72.97% / 10,840
Percentage and Number of those who are 18-64 that are fully vaccinated:   43.26% / 18,972
Percentage and Number of those who are 12-17 that are fully vaccinated:  19.29% / 1,171
Percentage and Number of those who are 5-11 that are fully vaccinated:  4.74% / 335

Vermilion County Case Counts
Number of new reported cases in the last 14 days (1/18):  3,767
New reported cases since noon on 1/17 to noon on 1/18:  272
Current Hospitalizations as of 1/13: 48
Total Cases (beginning March, 2020):  24,089
Total Deaths:  251

Due to staff shortages, as well as for the safety of our staff and patrons, Hoopeston Public Library will be open for CURBSIDE SERVICE only effective today January 18, 2022 through January 31, 2022.  You may still order books and pick up materials by calling 217-283-6711 and we will deliver to your vehicle. Copying and fax services will be available by appointment. Library hours will remain the same.

Due to increasing case numbers and the need to keep city workers healthy, city hall will be closed to the public beginning January 18, 2022 and will tentatively reopen on January 31, 2022. Residents needing city services can still contact City Hall via telephone at 217-283-5833. Water payments can be dropped off in the drop box located in front of City Hall, payment by telephone at 217-283-5631, by mail, or via the City’s website at www.cityofhoopeston.com. The front window of the Hoopeston Police Department will also be closed. Residents needing police assistance are asked to call the non-emergency number at 217-283-5196. If you have an emergency dial 9-1-1. 

Fire Call, Traffic Accident H22-0211

Time: 1:06am

Location: S 7th Av/W Penn St

Unit #1: 2009 Ford Escape driven by an unknown driver, owned by George Watson of Hoopeston

Unit #2: Parked 2015 trailer owned by Jesus Zarate of Hoopeston

Details: HPD, HFD and Arrow responded to a traffic accident at the above location. Unit #1 was

traveling eastbound on west Penn St when it struck a legally parked trailer. Witness on scene advised they saw a male leave the area after the accident. One passenger was

taken to the hospital for treatment. An investigation continues.

Traffic Accident H22-0215

Time: 3:15PM

Location: 300 blk of E Lincoln St

Unit 1: 2010 Ford F150 driven by Claude A Bridgman(34)(M)of Hoopeston

Unit 2: Parked 2007 Honda Accord owned by Jason Funk of Hoopeston

Details: Unit 1 was reversing out of the driveway by the residence. Unit 2 was parked on the North side of the roadway by that residence. While backing up, Unit 1 struck Unit 2 driver side with its passenger side bumper. Both vehicles are insured. No citations issued.

Domestic Battery H22-0182 2022-0355

Time: 12:09PM

Location: 200 blk of N 9th Ave

Complainant: 75 yr old Hoopeston Male

Arrested: Gage Fouse(27)(M)of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were dispatched to the above location for a report of Domestic Battery. Mr.

Fouse was located and arrested. Mr. Fouse was transported to HPD for processing and

later transported to the PSB.

Brett Magana, formerly of 621 Dewitt Avenue, Mattoon, Illinois, was sentenced today to twelve (12) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for the offense of Methamphetamine Possession, a Class 1 Felony. Day-for-day sentencing credit applies, and the sentence shall be followed by one (1) year of Mandatory Supervised Release (i.e., Parole). Additionally, Magana must provide truthful testimony in any hearing or trial involving his co-defendant, Caleb Hackler, who remains in the custody of the Vermilion County Sheriff on Class X Felony Methamphetamine Delivery charges and Class 2 Felony weapons offense.

The Honorable Derek Girton entered the sentence upon hearing that on August 13, 2021, Vermilion County Sheriff’s Deputies attempted to conduct a stop on a motor vehicle for a traffic violation. Rather than pull over, the vehicle raced away at a speed in excess of 100 m.p.h. Ultimately, the car crashed. The driver, later identified as Magana, and the passenger, later identified as Hackler, fled from the wreck. In the vehicle, law enforcement located firearms, over 150 grams of methamphetamine, and identification belonging to the two men.

Upon being apprehended shortly thereafter, Magana confessed to agents with the Vermilion County Metropolitan Enforcement Group (VMEG) that he and Hackler were on a “business move,” meaning a drug transaction. According to Magana, when law enforcement first attempted to pull the car over, Hackler placed a gun to Magana’s head and threatened to shoot if Magana did not attempt to elude the Deputies. Magana further indicated that, at the time, Hackler was wearing a bullet-proof vest. This vest also was located by law enforcement after being abandoned by Hackler during his flight from the crashed vehicle.

State’s Attorney Jacqueline Lacy thanked the Sheriff, his Deputies, and VMEG for their excellent work in this matter. She noted that, “Though this defendant did cooperate with law enforcement during the investigation, and has agreed to provide truthful testimony against his co-defendant, when it comes to drug dealers, this Office will insist on severe punishment.”

Vermilion County Vaccination Counts

Total Number of Vaccinations Administered (includes 12+):  71,962
Total Number of Boosters Administered:  13,249
Percentage of Fully Vaccinated Population with a Booster Dose:  40.1%
Percentage of Fully Vaccinated 65+ Population with a Booster Dose:  61.9%
Total Number of Vermilion County Residents FULLY vaccinated (includes 12+):  31,187
Percentage of Vermilion County’s TOTAL Population who are FULLY vaccinated:  40.60%
CDC has Vermilion County’s total Vaccination rate at 43.9% (this includes some of the federal programs that do not report to the state) You can look at the county views by going to this website:  CDC Data Tracker
Percentage and Number of those who are 65+ that are fully vaccinated:  72.89% / 10,828
Percentage and Number of those who are 18-64 that are fully vaccinated:   43.02% / 18,870
Percentage and Number of those who are 12-17 that are fully vaccinated:  19.24% / 1,168
Percentage and Number of those who are 5-11 that are fully vaccinated:  4.48% / 317

Vermilion County Case Counts (as of 1/14/2022) 
Number of new reported cases in the last 14 days:  3,532
New reported cases since noon on 1/13 to noon on 1/14:  392
Current Hospitalizations as of 1/13: 48
Total Cases (beginning March, 2020):  23,027
Total Deaths:  249

Fire Call

Time: 10:19pm

Location: 500 S 6th Av, Parkview Court

Details: HFD was dispatched for an unusual odor inside the residence.

Criminal Damage to Property H22-0178

Time: 11:41pm

Location: 200 blk S Dixie Hwy

Complainant: 43 year old Hoopeston female

Details: HPD officers were dispatched in reference to property damage to a door. An investigation

continues.

Just a few updates.  We continue to see a surge in cases.  We have had 3,170 new cases in the last 14 days, which is a record.  For all other data sets, please go to our website: www.vchd.org

As sent out yesterday, contact tracing has been moved to the centralized contact tracing surge center.  Vermilion County Health Department will NOT be issuing any COVID19 release back to work/school letters due to this transition as of today, January 13^th.    See the General public and specific settings for how long someone should be out.  Last day of exposure for a close contact is day 0.  If you test positive, the onset of symptoms or positive test, whichever comes first, is day 0. 

Please see updated guidance:

Schools:  https://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/school-guidance

General Public and Specific Settings:  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html

Upcoming Vaccination Clinics

Location:  Mark Denman Elementary School, 930 Colfax Street, Danville, IL  61832

Date and Time:  January 15th, 2022 from 1pm-4pm

What Type of Vaccines Will be Available:  Vaccines for kids 5-11 and Pfizer for 12+, Moderna, Pfizer, and J&J available.  Boosters Available.

This is an IEMA/IDPH Clinic and is not part of VCHD clinics.

Location:  Oakwood Public Library, 110 E. Finley Ave, Oakwood, Il  61858

Date and Time:  January 15th, 2022 from 8am-12pm

What Type of Vaccines Will be Available:  Pfizer for 12+, Moderna and J&J, Boosters too.

This is an IEMA/IDPH Clinic and is not part of VCHD clinics.

Location:  Catlin Church of Christ, 715 W. Vermilion St. Catlin, IL  61817

Date and Time:  January 17th, 2022 from 10am-3pm

What Type of Vaccines Will be Available:  Vaccines for kids 5-11 and Pfizer for 12+, Moderna and Pfizer Boosters Available.

This is an IEMA/IDPH Clinic and is not part of VCHD clinics. 

Location:  LTC-Hawthorne Inn – 3222 Independence Dr. Danville, IL  61832

Date and Time:  January 25th, 2022 from 10am – 4pm

What Type of Vaccines will be Available:  Pfizer for 12+, Moderna, and J&J available.  Boosters Available.

This is an IEMA/IDPH Clinic and is not part of VCHD clinics

Location: Mary Miller Junior High School, 414 W West St. Georgetown, IL  61846

Date and Time: February 2, 2022 from 9am-1pm

What Type of Vaccines Will be Available: Vaccines for kids 5-11 and Pfizer for 12+, Moderna and J&J available.  Boosters Available.

This is an IEMA/IDPH Clinic and is not part of VCHD clinics.

Region 6 Hospital Update (15 hospitals):

Number of Hospitals in Peak Census this morning:  5

Number of Adult ICU beds open:  15

Number of Pediatric ICU beds open:  0

Number of Pediatric COVID19 patients in ICU: 1

Number of Pediatric COVID19 patients in non-ICU beds: 4

Number of Adult COVID19 patients in ICU: 49

Number of Adult COVID19 patients in non-ICU beds: 258

Number of COVID19 patients on vents:  31

Number of patients waiting in ED for beds:  26

Number of COVID19 patients who died on 1/12:  7

I hate to even mention forecasting since this virus decides to do its own thing, but I think we could all use a little bit of hope.  So, it looks like it is possible that in another week or two we could peak and start to see fewer cases.  Other areas that were first hit are seeing their cases begin to go down.  Please hang in there as Omicron is showing that it is definitely more contagious, but is not as severe as Delta for most people.  This doesn’t mean that we can all throw our masks off and stop all mitigations.  It is important to support our healthcare system, not break it.    We have seen a lot more reinfections than we ever have and more cases of those who are vaccinated.  The majority of new cases, hospitalizations, and deaths still remain with the unvaccinated.  Please protect yourself and those around you.  We all have an impact.    

Here’s the latest in how quickly Omicron has spread across the United States.

Hoopeston Man arrested for breaking into the HART Animal Shelter

Posted About Two Years Ago by WHPO

Criminal Damage to State Supported Property, Burglary, Escape H22-0163 2022-0305

Time: 7:23pm

Location: 901 W Main St, HART Animal Shelter

Arrested: Jason Reyes (34) (M) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were called to the above location for the report of an alarm. Officers found

one of the doors to be open and damaged. An investigation found Mr. Reyes to previously

be inside the shelter. He was later found and arrested. After subject was processed at

HPD, he was taken to the PSB in Danville to await arraignment.

Vermilion County Vaccination Counts

Total Number of Vaccinations Administered (includes 12+):  71,459
Total Number of Boosters Administered:  12,947
Percentage of Fully Vaccinated Population with a Booster Dose:  39.5%
Percentage of Fully Vaccinated 65+ Population with a Booster Dose:  61.3%
Total Number of Vermilion County Residents FULLY vaccinated (includes 12+):  31,099
Percentage of Vermilion County’s TOTAL Population who are FULLY vaccinated:  40.49%
CDC has Vermilion County’s total Vaccination rate at 43.7% (this includes some of the federal programs that do not report to the state) You can look at the county views by going to this website:  CDC Data Tracker
Percentage and Number of those who are 65+ that are fully vaccinated:  72.84% / 10,821
Percentage and Number of those who are 18-64 that are fully vaccinated:   42.90% / 18,814
Percentage and Number of those who are 12-17 that are fully vaccinated:  19.11% / 1,160
Percentage and Number of those who are 5-11 that are fully vaccinated:  4.24% / 300

Vermilion County Case Counts (as of 1/11/2022) 
Number of new reported cases in the last 14 days:  2,721
New reported cases since noon on 1/10 to noon on 1/11:  262 
Current Hospitalizations as of 1/7: 41
Total Cases (beginning March, 2020):  21,798
Total Deaths:  247

Fire Call

Time: 08:32 AM

Location: 200 E Main Street Hoopeston

Details: At the above time, HPD received a report of odor of something burning in the area, HFD and HPD all responded and checked. Found no evidence of illegal burning in the area or any building issues.

On January 9th, 2022, Iroquois County Sherriff’s police investigated a single car fatal accident in Belmont Township.

At 10:10pm ICOM received a 911 call from a homeowner stating that on County Road 2000E north of Belmont Acres someone had drove into the back of their home. 

Woodland fire, Riverside EMS, and Sherriff’s police responded to the scene where they found the driver, 72-year-old Michael Miner deceased and the sole occupant in the vehicle. The cause of the crash reminds under investigation by the Iroquois County Sherriff’s police and Iroquois county coroner’s office. 

Operating an Uninsured Vehicle H22-0113

Time: 1/8/2022 01:53am

Location: 900 W Orange St.

Cited: Kenneth M Hinkle (M) (69) of Ambia, IN

Details: HPD Officers observed Mr. Hinkle driving with no taillights on. Mr. Hinkle was stopped at the above location and he was cited for operating an Uninsured Vehicle. Mr. Hinkle was given a Traffic Citation and a Vermilion County Court date.

Warrant Arrest H22-0077 2022-0141

Time: 12:11am

Location: 300 blk Front St

Arrested: Charles Parham (31) (M) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were called to the area for an unrelated incident. A computer

check revealed Mr. Parham had outstanding warrants through Vermilion County

and IDOC. Subject was arrested and taken to HPD to be processed. He was

later transported to the PSB in Danville in lieu of bond.

First and most important, our family would like to express our deepest sorrows to the family of Sergeant Marlene Rittmanic. We are devastated by her loss. She was an excellent police officer, an amazing person, and an inspiration to Tyler and many other officers as a mentor and friend. We miss her, and there will always be a void in our hearts from her loss. We continue to pray for her and her family each day.

From the start of the incident at the Comfort Inn, the responses of the local police departments, fire personnel, and first responders were nothing short of amazing. Removing wounded officers from the scene of an active shooting is exceedingly dangerous, as officers do not know if a shooter may still be present. Many people put their lives on the line to get Tyler and Sgt. Rittmanic out of the building and to the medical care they needed as quickly as possible.

After being removed from the scene of the shooting, Tyler was taken to the emergency room at St. Mary's Hospital in Kankakee, Illinois, where the exemplary emergency staff was able to stabilize Tyler and keep him alive to be transported to the surgical staff at a different hospital. Due to the weather conditions, Tyler could not be transported by helicopter but was instead transported by ambulance. The Illinois State Police District 21 provided an emergency escort for the ambulance carrying Tyler to ensure he got the treatment needed as soon as possible. While enroute to the hospital, officers from local area police departments assisted with the escort. We cannot thank these officers and departments enough for all they did and continue to do. Not a moment has passed without one of these heroes at the side of the family and Tyler.

Tyler underwent an extensive surgery on December 30, lasting most of the day. The tireless surgical staff at the treating hospital were able to greatly enhance Tyler's chances of surviving this critical injury with their incredible skill and dedication.

While we are not able to go into specific details about the severity of Tyler's condition, we can certainly say that without the surgical intervention, Tyler would not have survived the remainder of the day on December 30. After the procedure, we are cautiously optimistic about beginning discussions for Tyler's recovery over the short term, although he is far from out of the woods at this point.

Since the surgery, Tyler has continued to fight for his life. He is stable but remains in very critical condition. Unfortunately, there have been several inaccurate social media rumors regarding Tyler's current condition. Without going into specifics, we can say that he is progressing in a positive manner toward what we hope someday to be a full recovery. It will be a long and difficult battle for Tyler. We are elated with every small step forward as he continues under the care of the hospital staff, who have been nothing short of sensational in their care and accommodations.

Their family is overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from not only the local police, fire, and first responders, but also personnel from around the State of Illinois, as well as nationwide. These heroes we have mentioned in this release are not just individuals punching a clock each day at work. They are a huge family, and are there for each other under all circumstances, both on the streets and behind the scenes. We can't thank them enough for all they have done.

Tyler's family wishes to express our strongest gratitude to everyone who has had a part in getting Tyler to this point after such a terrible incident. Every helping hand, all of the kind words and prayers, along with the daily supplies and food for the family members who are staying at the hospital and surrounding hotels are greatly appreciated. The immense support and donations to Tyler through various outlets have been incredible.

Thank you all for your support and prayers.  We appreciate your dedication to helping the family maintain their privacy at this time, allowing them to concentrate on the aftermath of this tragedy involving both officers

Fire Call

Time: 7:41PM

Location: 600 blk of E Maple

Details: HFD and HPD were dispatched to the above located for shed on fire. Fire was put out, no injuries were reported.

Vermilion County Vaccination Counts

Total Number of Vaccinations Administered (includes 12+):  70,274
Total Number of Boosters Administered:  12,255
Percentage of Fully Vaccinated Population with a Booster Dose:  37.5%
Total Number of Vermilion County Residents FULLY vaccinated (includes 12+):  30,889
Percentage of Vermilion County’s TOTAL Population who are FULLY vaccinated:  40.22%
CDC has Vermilion County’s total Vaccination rate at 43.5% (this includes some of the federal programs that do not report to the state) You can look at the county views by going to this website:  CDC Data Tracker
Percentage of those who are 65+ and have at least 1 dose:  76.59%
Percentage and Number of those who are 65+ that are fully vaccinated:  72.75% / 10,808
Percentage of those who are ages 18-64 and have at least 1 dose:  47.14%
Percentage and Number of those who are 18-64 that are fully vaccinated:   42.62% / 18,695
Percentage of those who are 12-17 and have at least 1 dose:  21.58%
Percentage and Number of those who are 12-17 that are fully vaccinated:  18.70% / 1,135
Percentage of those who are 5-11 and have at least 1 dose: 6.19%
Percentage and Number of those who are 5-11 that are fully vaccinated:  3.55% / 251

Vermilion County Case Counts (as of 1/4/2021) 
Number of New Cases in the last 14 days:  1,369
Current Hospitalizations: 44
Total Cases (beginning March, 2020):  19,734
Total Deaths:  245

During a bond hearing Monday for Xandria Harris, 26, of Bradley, Kankakee County State’s attorney Jim Rowe described details of body camera footage from the night two Bradley police officers were shot last week.

Harris is charged with first degree murder and attempted murder along with her boyfriend, Darius D. Sullivan. He is facing first degree murder charges, attempted murder charges and aggravated battery discharging a firearm.

Sullivan, 25, of Bourbonnais, is charged with shooting Sgt. Marlene Rittmanic and Officer Tyler Bailey, who were called to the Comfort Inn in Bradley Wednesday night to check on a complaint of barking dogs left in a vehicle.

Rittmanic later died at Riverside Medical Center. Bailey is in critical condition at a Chicago area hospital.

Rowe said during Harris’ bond hearing that body cam footage from Rittmanic recorded her pleading with Sullivan not to shoot her.

“Sgt. Rittmanic was pleading with them to leave. ‘You don’t have to do this. Please just go. Please don’t. Please don’t.’ She was desperately pleading for her life,” Rowe said.

Rowe said the body cam footage showed Harris aid Sullivan, whose gun had jammed. Harris reached around the waist of Sullivan while he had Rittmanic pinned up against the wall, according to Rowe.

Harris was either attempting to cock Sullivan’s gun and/or disarm Rittmanic, Rowe said.

Requesting federal charges

Rowe said he would be contacting the U.S. Attorney General’s office to review the cases of Sullivan and Harris, who are charged with shooting two Bradley police officers.

Rowe made the statement Monday during the bond hearing for Harris, 26, of Bradley.

“I will be submitting an official request to the U.S. Attorney General for the Central District of Illinois and to the U.S. Attorney General to review the first degree murder case pending against Darius Sullivan and Xandria Harris for federal murder charges, and pursue a federal sentence of death against both defendants,” Rowe said during Harris’ bond hearing before Kankakee County Circuit Judge Kathy Bradshaw Elliott.

Although Illinois is not a death penalty state, the U.S. Attorney General can authorize the filing of a petition to seek the death penalty in a federal murder case under certain circumstances, according to Rowe.

The State's Attorney will also seek life sentences for both Sullivan and Harris as the existing state-level charges proceed.

Elliott granted a request to deny Harris bail. She won’t be able to post bond to be released.

“You are a real threat to the community,” Elliott said.

A standing room only crowd, made up mainly of Bradley police officers and other local agencies, attended the hearing. They left after the hearing was over.

Members of Rittmanic’s family were also in attendance.

The case will go before a Kankakee County grand jury on Jan. 22.

The next court date for Harris is Jan. 27 when she will be arraigned.

Burglary, Criminal Trespass to State Supported Property(Delayed Entry) H22-0015

Date and Time: 01/02/2022 at 11:15am

Location: 500 blk of S 6th Ave

Arrested: Julie R Stevens(39)(F)of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were dispatched for a burglary. Ms. Stevens was located and transported to

HPD for processing and later released with a Vermilion County Court notice to appear.

Fire Call

Time: 11:51pm

Location: 500 blk S 6th Av

Details: HFD was dispatched to a tree on fire at the football field. Fire was extinguished.

Vermilion County Vaccination Counts

Total Number of Vaccinations Administered (includes 12+):  70,103
Total Number of Boosters Administered:  12,066
Percentage of Fully Vaccinated Population with a Booster Dose:  36.3%
Total Number of Vermilion County Residents FULLY vaccinated (includes 12+):  30,863
Percentage of Vermilion County’s TOTAL Population who are FULLY vaccinated:  40.18%
CDC has Vermilion County’s total Vaccination rate at 43.3% (this includes some of the federal programs that do not report to the state) You can look at the county views by going to this website:  CDC Data Tracker
Percentage of those who are 65+ and have at least 1 dose:  76.72%
Percentage and Number of those who are 65+ that are fully vaccinated:  72.75% / 10,807
Percentage of those who are ages 18-64 and have at least 1 dose:  47.25%
Percentage and Number of those who are 18-64 that are fully vaccinated:   42.58% / 18,676
Percentage of those who are 12-17 and have at least 1 dose:  21.53%
Percentage and Number of those who are 12-17 that are fully vaccinated:  18.67% / 1,133
Percentage of those who are 5-11 and have at least 1 dose: 6.08%
Percentage and Number of those who are 5-11 that are fully vaccinated:  3.49% / 247

Confirmed Vermilion County Case Counts (as of 12/30)   
Current Active Cases:  301
Current Hospitalizations: 44 (14.62% of active cases)
Total Cases (beginning March, 2020):  17,662
Total Released / Recovered:  17,122
Total Deaths:  239

Illinois State Police (ISP) District 10 (Interim) Commander, Acting Captain Ryan Starrick, announces the ISP will conduct Occupant Restraint Enforcement Patrols (OREP) in Vermilion County during January. 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.

Kankakee County has lost a leader in community policing – Marlene believed in people and her ability to speak to the community with respect; meet them where they are in life; try to understand their true needs; and work together to find a solution that produced the least disruption in people’s lives.  To her – the job was about making her community safe for everyone, she believed – and stated, “just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.”  Meaning – if you have statutory grounds to arrest a person, tow their car, or fine them, doesn’t mean you should.  If she pulled over a single mother without a $1 to her name but clearly had violations, she would consider the long-term consequences of creating more debt to someone that is already impoverished.  She was awarded Law Enforcement Officer of the Year in 2020 – just to drive home the type of Police Officer she really was. Marlene was also a published poet, amateur photographer and film producer for our family events, Bradley Police Department recruiting and community events.

Marlene’s family and friends have affectionately gone out of their way to help us get through the most unnecessary, heartbreaking, painful, deplorable, tragic loss of our lives.  We are deeply beholden and grateful to all of you.

Our neighborhoods have lifted us with blue lights beaming through day and night as well as gifts of food and supplies.  We are forever indebted to all of you and thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

The community of Kankakee County came to a complete stop to stand in the cold to witness our hero, wife, mother, sister, daughter, aunt – Sergeant Marlene Rittmanic-Stua be transferred from Riverside to the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Department and again from the Sheriff’s Department to Clancy Funeral Home.  We saw many familiar faces and complete strangers – We are more than grateful for you all and we know that you too are feeling the loss.  For that, you know justice will have to be swift and reflective of their actions.

The Police Departments – All of them throughout Illinois – there are a lot, we would miss one if we tried to list them, their unconditional, voluntary, gratuitous, all-encompassing service to Marlene, her family and our extended family is meticulously carried out and ongoing. 

A very special thanks to Illinois COPS/ 100 Club team, our close friend Teresa Lanie, Katie Novak, Brian Coash, Clancy Gernon Funeral Home and Olivet Nazarene University.

Our world has been turned upside down, obliterated and hopelessly broken. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials in her honor may be made to the Marlene Rittmanic Memorial Fund at Federated Bank in Bradley, IL.  Memorials will be accepted at the services and the Clancy Gernon Funeral Home in Bourbonnais, IL which is assisting with arrangements. The family is not utilizing any online crowdfunding sources.

Additional information will be released in the coming days.

Inquiries about the incident can be directed to the Illinois State Police at ISP.PIO.PERSONNEL@ILLINOIS.GOV

Fire Limits and Restrictions Designated (City Ordinance) (15.12.050) Sub A H21-6329

Time: 8:40pm

Location: 200 Block of E Main St.

Cited: Jeffrey A. Coss (M) (56) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD received a call of smoke filling the down town area. HPD Officers went to investigate the smoke. Mr. Coss adv that he had a fire going for heat. Mr. Coss was cited for the city ordinance against having fires downtown.

DOMESTIC BATTERY H22-0006

Time: 09:45

Location: 800 Blk. E. Maple Street

Arrested: Sarah E. Garrison 38 year old (F) (W) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD was dispatched to above address ref a domestic. Female was arrested for domestic battery. She was processed at HPD and transported to the PSB to be seen by a Judge.

Wanted on Warrant 21CM566 and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia H22-0020 2022-00027

Time: 4:38pm

Location: 300 E Main St. in Alley

Arrested: Blake M. Meehan (M) (21) of Hoopeston

Details: Officers observed Mr. Meehan walking in the above area. Mr. Meehan is known to have a Vermilion County warrant. Mr. Meehan was found with possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Mr. Meehan was transported to HPD where he was processed and later transported to the Public Safety Building in lieu of bond.

The Hoopeston Jaycees invite the community to join us in celebrating the contributions and accomplishments of our citizens during the 2022 Community Awards Ceremony, to take place on Saturday, January 8, 2022. The ceremony will once again include the judging and crowning of Miss Hoopeston 2022. Date: Saturday, January 8, 2022 Time: 3:00 p.m. Location: Lorraine Theatre Awards to be presented by Hoopeston Jaycees, Chamber of Commerce, and The Chronicle. Concession sales and freewill donations welcomed to the Lorraine Foundation. Back again! Say farewell to Miss Hoopeston 2020-21, Asti Scharlach, and meet the Miss Hoopeston 2022 candidates during a carryout fundraiser dinner! Date: Friday, January 7, 2022 Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Location: Hoopeston First United Methodist Church, 403 E. Main St. Italian Beef Freewill donations welcomed to a cash scholarship for outgoing Miss Hoopeston, Asti Scharlach, who is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in nursing at Indiana State University.

On Dec. 31, 2021, at approximately 9 a.m., the Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Zone 3 officials confirm Darius D. Sullivan is in police custody.  Arrangements are being made to transport Sullivan back to Kankakee County at this time. 

On Dec. 31, 2021, at approximately 4 p.m., Xandria A. Harris, 26-year-old female of Bradley, Illinois, accompanied by her attorney, turned herself in at the Bradley Police Department and was taken into custody by the Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Zone 3 Investigators.

The ISP would like to extend our appreciation to all the assisting agencies including, but not limited to the United States Marshalls Great Lakes Fugitive Task Force, Bradley Police Department, Kankakee County Sheriffs Department, Kankakee City Police Department, Indiana State Police, and numerous other municipal and county agencies in Illinois and Indiana, who assisted in apprehending Darius D. Sullivan and Xandria A. Harris.

Harris will remain in custody and will be held at the Jerome D. Combs Adult Detention Facility in Kankakee.  Arrangements are being made for Sullivan to be extradited from Indiana to Kankakee County at this time.

“In a multi-jurisdictional effort, two alleged cop killers have been taken into custody today and will now face justice,” stated ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly.  “The Law Enforcement family and the community lost a devoted officer, and another continues to fight for his life.  The ISP will continue to offer our prayers and support to the Bradley Police Department during this difficult time.” concluded Kelly.