Listeners Club

Forgot Password

Not a Member? Sign up here!

WHPO Blog Archives for 2024-05

Hoopeston Police Report 5/30/24

Domestic Battery H24-2771 2024-4133 Time: 4:21am Location: 700 blk of E Wyman Complainant: 41 yr old male of Hoopeston Arrested: Angelia Chamberlain(44)(F)of Hoopeston Details: HPD officers were dispatched to the above location for a report of domestic battery. Ms. Chamberlain was arrested and transported to HPD for processing and later transported to the PSB to await arraignment.

 

Theft Over $500 3x, Theft Under, Burglary, Possession of Controlled Substance, Bring Contraband in Penal Institution Controlled Substance H24-2789 2024-4161 Time: 7:26 pm Location: 700 blk E Chestnut Arrested: Haley M Edwards (F) (27) of Hoopeston Details: HPD responded to the report of a burglary. Ms. Edwards was later found and identified as the suspect. She was taken into custody on the above charges and transported to the PSB to await arraignment. 

Hoopeston Police Report 5/29/24

Wanted on Warrant H24-2765 2024-4123

Time: 9:00 pm

Location: Hoopeston Police Department – 301 W Main St

Arrested: Kimberly D McMillen (F) (49) of Hoopeston

Details: Ms McMillen turned herself in on an active Vermilion County warrant (#23MT1309). She was processed at HPD then transported by a Vermilion County deputy to the PSB in Danville, IL.

 

Fire Call

Time: 9:57 pm

Location: McDonald’s – 824 S Dixie Hwy

Details: HFD and HPD responded to a vehicle on fire. All units cleared without further incident.

 

Fire Call

Time: 10:35 pm

Location: Heritage Healthcare -- 423 N Dixie Hwy

Details: HFD responded to an activated CO alarm. All units cleared without further incident.

Hoopeston Police Report 5/27/24

Breach of the Peace Constituting Disorderly Conduct (City Ordinance 9.16.020) H24-2647 Time: 1:43 am Location: 700 blk E Wyman Ave Cited: Angelia A Chamberlain (F) (44) of Hoopeston Details: HPD responded to a loud noise complaint. Ms. Chamberlain received a citation and notice to appear in Hoopeston City court. 

Danville Man Found Guilty of Brutal and Heinous Murders

On May 24, 2024, a Vermilion County Jury convicted 22-year-old Cloanger Robinson (DOB: 12/21/2001) in the brutal and heinous murders of three elderly Danville men following a weeklong trial. Robinson will face a sentence of Natural Life in prison at a sentencing hearing on July 2, 2024. State’s Attorney Jacqueline Lacy, who prosecuted this case along with two of her assistants, presented evidence that on January 23, 2020, a 911 call was made by a family member after the three victims, Mr. Gentry, Mr. Jones and Mr. Reed were found deceased inside of 440 Elm Street. Police responded to the residence and found the three victims brutally beaten and stabbed. Further evidence showed that on January 22, 2020, victims Nathaniel Gentry, Anthony Jones and Cordell Reed, who were lifelong residents of Danville, were spending time together with friends, playing cards at Mr. Reed’s home at 440 Elm Street. Eyewitness testimony provided that victim, Cordell Reed, welcomed Cloanger Robinson, his nephew, into his home. Robinson was accompanied by two juveniles, one of which was Terrion Tinsley. Tinsley was sentenced on April 1, 2024, to Natural Life in prison. Another co-defendant, who was a juvenile at the time, pled guilty to robbery and agreed to cooperate as a state’s witness to testify at court in order to assist the prosecution in securing the conviction of both Robinson and Tinsley. Testimony at trial indicated that once inside the home, the three co-defendants were wearing latex gloves under knit gloves, but when asked, stated that they were worn due to the cold weather. Early on in the investigation, a detective with the Danville Police was alerted by a citizen who had located three pairs of latex gloves inside of knit gloves that appeared to have been discarded in storm drains mere blocks from 440 Elm Street. The gloves, along with numerous pieces of evidence gathered during the investigation, were sent to the Illinois State Police (ISP) Crime Lab. Illinois State Police Crime Scene Investigator Tim Lemasters testified that his investigation of the residence required more than 12 hours gathering evidence to be sent for testing by the ISP Crime Lab. During trial, State’s Attorney Lacy noted that due to the quick police work of the Danville Police Department, a search warrant was granted and clothing was found by a detective inside a garbage can at the home of one of Robinson’s co-defendants. The clothing was gathered and sent to the ISP Crime Lab. Forensic scientists testified during the trial that DNA found inside the clothing indicated it had been worn by Cloanger Robinson. Testing also showed that DNA belonging to all three victims was located on the clothing worn by Robinson. During arguments, State’s Attorney Lacy stated, “Cloanger Robinson wasn’t expecting that when he ran to and from his codefendant’s residence, under the cover of darkness to discard his clothes that he would be caught on a nearby security camera.” Cloanger Robinson testified during the defense’s case in chief. Through Robinson’s own testimony, he admitted to getting into an argument with Nathaniel Gentry and admitted to striking Mr. Gentry in the head three times with a baseball bat. During testimony, Robinson stated that he lied to police because he felt he could not face his own family. Forensic Pathologist, Dr. Scott Denton, described the severe injuries of stab wounds and blunt force trauma that caused the deaths of all three victims. Dr. Denton also noted the defensive wounds that were sustained by the victims trying to protect themselves from the blows to the face. During closing arguments, State’s Attorney Lacy stated, “What Cloanger Robinson did to his own family is unimaginable, but he did it.” Following the trial, Lacy thanked the jury for their service. She expressed her appreciation for the cooperation of the brave witnesses and for the victims’ families. “What happened to Nathaniel Gentry, Anthony Jones and Cordell Reed is inconceivable. My continued condolences are with the families of these men. I am grateful that the Jury returned a guilty verdict and I am hopeful that the families can begin to find a sense of closure.”

Hoopeston Police Report 5/24/24

Reckless Driving H24-2493

Date & time: 5/18/2024 12:08 pm

Location: 615 E Orange St – Hoopeston Area High School

Cited: Owen L Crase (M) (18) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with the above subject identified as the driver. Mr. Crase was sent a citation via mail and received notice to appear in Vermilion County traffic court.

 

Fire Call

Time: 1:21pm

Location: 325 E Orange St, Autumn Fields

Details: HFD was dispatched to a fire alarm. They were cancelled by staff and the alarm company

before getting on scene.

Hoopeston Police Report 5/23/24

Unlawful Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon; Unlawful Possession of Ammunition by Convicted Felon; Serialization of Unfinished Frames or Receivers

Time: 2:42 p.m.

Location: HPD

Arrested: Nathan Irvin (M) (64) of Hoopeston

Details: Mr. Irvin was brought to HPD as part of an ongoing investigation. After being questioned he was arrested on the above charges. He was then transported to the PSB in Danville to await arraignment.

 

Traffic Accident (Delayed Entry)

Date and Time: 5/21/2024 5:20 p.m.

Location: McFerren Park

Unit 1: 2004 Pontiac driven by Zachary Ballard (M) (16) of Hoopeston

Unit 2: 2016 Nissan parked and owned by Dayna Haggan (F) of Hoopeston

Details: Unit 1 was driving northbound in the area of the pool when it struck Unit 2. No injuries, no tickets, and both units were insured.

Hoopeston Police Report 5/22/24

Theft Under H24-2558

Time: 1:03am

Location: 101 W Main St (Ted’s Home Beverage)

Arrested: Kendrick Buckner (22) (M) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were dispatched to the above location for a report of a theft. Mr. Buckner was

located and arrested. Mr. Buckner was later transported to HPD for processing and

released with a Vermilion County Notice to Appear.

 

Warrant Arrest (Vermilion County 24CF240) H24-2568 2024-3896

Time: 10:13am

Location: 301 W Main St (Hoopeston Police Department)

Arrested: James A Brayboy (26) (M) of Hoopeston

Details: Mr. Brayboy came to the police station to turn himself in on an active Vermilion County warrant. Mr. Brayboy was arrested and processed and transported to the PSB by a Vermilion County Deputy.

 

Operating Vehicle with Expired Registration H24-2582

Time: 9:07pm

Location: S 1st Ave and W Orange

Cited: Hageb BaAlawi (35) (M) of Rockford, IL

Details: HPD conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with the listed subject identified as the driver. Mr. BaAlawi was issued the citation and released from the scene.

 

Fire Call

Time: 11:12pm

Location: 900 Block of W Main

Details: HFD, HPD, and Ameren responded to the area for a report of tree and wires down.

 

Fire Call

Time: 11:27pm

Location: 500 Block of W Maple

Details: HFD, HPD, and Ameren responded to the area for a report of tree and wires down

Body recovered from the Middle Fork River

Vermilion County Coroner Jane McFadden stated that at 9:05 a.m. this morning the body of 23-year-old Jose Alberto Lopez-Fernandez of Champaign, Illinois was recovered from the Middle Fork River by the Vermilion County Sheriff Office and Illinois Conservation Police. He was last seen on Sunday, May 19th in the afternoon at Kickapoo State Park in the river.

 

An autopsy is scheduled and his family has been notified.

Felon Charged with Domestic Battery Violates Felony Probation, Resentenced to Prison

On May 3, 2024, Donald Hayes (DOB: 1/8/1989), formerly of Tilton, Illinois, was resentenced to a total of 6 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections after he pleaded guilty for a conviction on one count of Domestic Battery and admitted to violating conditions of his Felony Probation. Judge Derek Girton heard evidence that on December 24, 2023, a female called 911 from the restroom of a local gas station. The female reported that she had been a passenger in a car with Donald Hayes and that he had grabbed and punched her while they were in the car together. She stated to police that Hayes had stopped the car at the gas station and she was able to get to the restroom at which time she called 911. Police officers arrived and observed Hayes grabbing the female and preventing her from walking away. This incident occurred while Hayes was serving a term of 24 months’ probation for Burglary and Possession of Methamphetamine. State’s Attorney Jacqueline Lacy said, “I would like to thank the victim for her courage in calling for help and the officers of the Danville Police Department who responded quickly in her time of need.” She added, “Domestic violence is a serious crime and there are many incidents that go unreported. My office will continue to work to prosecute perpetrators of domestic violence to hold them accountable.”

Vermilion County Conducting Research to Create a County-Wide Branding and Communications Campaign

Anyone who lives, works or visits Vermilion County is invited to share their input on strategically rebranding the County. As a part of the project, a brief online survey has been developed to gather insights and ideas from as many residents and visitors as possible.

 

Along with the online survey, a series of stakeholder and focus group interviews are being conducted. When the research is complete, a logo, tagline and communication plan will be developed in 2024 and 2025. The project marks the first phase of Vermilion County’s 200th Anniversary Celebration which officially begins in 2026.

 

Be a part of shaping Vermilion County’s future! Share your insights here https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VermCo24 or follow the QR Code.

Hoopeston Police Report 5/21/24

Operating Uninsured Vehicle H24-2533 Time: 2:39 am Location: S McKinley/W Orange St Cited: Osman R Villatoro (M) (31) of Hoopeston Details: HPD conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with the above subject identified as the driver. Mr. Villatoro received a citation with notice to appear in Vermilion County traffic court and was released from the scene.

Hoopeston Police Report 5/20/24

 

Warrant Arrest H24-2490 2024-3788

Time: 8:15am

Location: W Orange/S Dixie Hwy, Casey’s

Arrested: Julius Thomas (M) (25) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were called to the above location for a suspicious person. A computer check

revealed Mr. Thomas had an outstanding Vermilion County warrant. He was arrested and

taken to HPD to be processed. He was later transported to the PSB in Danville by a

Vermilion County Sheriff’s Deputy.

 

 

Driving While Registration Suspended H24-2499

Time: 5:26PM

Location: W Orange St/S Dixie Highway

Arrested: Tony L Irvin(42)(M)of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers conducted a traffic stop and a computer search showed Mr. Irvin to have a

Suspended registration. Mr. Irvin was given a Vermilion County notice to appear and

Released from the scene.

 

 

Fire Call

Time: 11:36 pm

Location: 800 blk E Lincoln St

Details: HFD responded to an activated carbon monoxide alarm. All units cleared without further incident

 

 

 

 

Failure to Yield-stop or Yield Intersection H24-2522

Time: 5:05PM

Location: E Elm St/S 6th St

Unit 1: 2009 Pontiac G5 driven by Teara K Marcum(17)(F)of Milford

Unit 2: 2017 Dodge Caravan driven by Desiree M Martin(30)(F)of Hoopeston

Details: Driver of Unit 1 was South Bound on S 6th St when she came to the intersection of S 6th St

and E Elm St. Driver of Unit 1 continued through the intersection and struck Unit 2 in the

front end on the driver side. Both units were insured and both units towed from the scene.

Driver of Unit 1 was taken to the ER. Driver of Unit 1 was cited.

Hoopeston Police Report 5/16/24

No Valid Driver’s License, Operating Uninsured Vehicle, Operating Vehicle without Evidence of Registration. (Delayed Entry) H24-2443

Date and Time: 05/14/2024 11:56PM

Location: E Main St/S Market St

Arrested: Kenneth D.L. Denton(34)(M) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers conducted a traffic stop and a computer search showed Mr. Denton to

not have a valid driver’s license. Mr. Denton was mailed Vermilion County Notice to

appear.

 

Fire Call

Time: 4:38pm

Location: 1100 blk Savannah Court

Details: HFD was dispatched to the smell of smoke inside of a residence. Fire department cleared

without incident.

Balloons Over Vermilion volunteer sign up is now open.

Volunteers play a huge role in assisting Balloons Over Vermilion 

provide our marquee summer family fun festival. This year's dates

and times are July 12th & 13th 3-11pm

at the Vermilion Regional Airport Danville, IL.

 

They also play a part in giving back to the local Vermilion County 

Community when our Impact Grants are awarded in the spring of 2025

In the seven short years of the combination of Balloons Over

Vermilion and Festival of Trees Danville over $500,000 has been

donated to schools, organizations and groups that impact the youth

and their families of Vermilion County. 

 

We would like to ask your help in inviting people to join us

as a volunteer for our 2024 event.

 

Sign up is easy! Go to BalloonsOverVermilion.com and click the 

Volunteer tab. You get to choose what time fits your schedule and 

what task you would like to help with. There is a short description of

what is involved with each task. Volunteers receive parking passes and 

free admission to the event. Here is the direct link to our sign up site

https://signup.com/client/invitation2/secure/13325184030/false#/invitation

 

Thank you very much for your continued support of Balloons Over Vermilion!

See you in July!

 

For more information about volunteering for Balloons Over Vermilion

contact Mary Surprenant at happytohelp1129@gmail.com or 217-918-0062.

Danville Mayor talks about Village Mall Auction

What we all call "the mall" was auctioned off in 3 parts over the last 3 days:

Part 1 (referred to as The Strip): County Market, Pet Supplies Plus, Dunham's, & Ross. This had a minimum starting bid of $1.75 Million and an unknown reserve amount (undisclosed to bidders).  Although there was a final bid of $3.75 Million, the reserve amount wasn't met, so it did not sell (yet).  With taxes & fees, the price would've been close to $4 Million.

Part 2 (referred to as the Interior Mall): former Burlington, Carson's, Movie Theater, Food Court, restrooms, other closed stores, the DACC Barber College, & currently operating stores: JoAnn Fabrics, Bath & Body Works, Hibbett's, CitiTrends, & Jodi's Dance Studio (excluding the Slumberland & Shoe Sensation building owned by Slumberland).  There was a minimum bid of $1 & it was an absolute sale meaning that it would/should be sold no matter the amount of the final bid.  I didn't get the exact selling amount, but it was ~$500K, and with taxes & fees, the final price would have been ~$600K.

Part 3 (referred to as the Outlot): most of the parking lot to the west of Aspen Dental & east of the first row by the old Sears Automotive. There was also a minimum bid of $1 & it was also an absolute sale meaning that it would/should be sold no matter the amount of the final bid. I didn't get the exact selling amount, but it was ~$43K, and with taxes & fees, the final price would have been ~$60K.

The City was an unsuccessful bidder.  The total price for the sale of the Village Mall is ~$4.5 Million including everything.

Aspen Dental, Buffalo Wild Wings, & McDonald's are all independently owned & were not part of the sale. 

We DO NOT know who made these bids but will share once we are notified & legally able to do so.  Local developers we spoke w/wanted to keep all existing businesses & planned to expand both shopping & entertainment options, so it's our prayer that one of them won!  We have been working behind the scenes to ensure the future success of this facility & will continue to do so.  Neither I nor other City Team Members will offer further commentary at this time because it's truly all we know.  #wearedanville #danvilleisus #danvilleproud #danvillestrong

Sen. Rose Announces Over $31.5 million in Water/Sewer Projects in East Central Illinois

– State Sen. Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) announced over $31.5 million in Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) water related infrastructure projects for east central Illinois. 

“Investing in water infrastructure is an investment in the future of our communities,” Sen. Rose affirmed. “With aging infrastructure and increasing environmental challenges, these projects are vital to provide to clean and safe water for the impacted communities”.

The projects include loans to the following entities: the Sangamon Valley Public Water District will receive $10,513,832; the City of Newman will receive $463,323; the Village of Rantoul will receive $17,932,603; and the City of Hoopeston will receive $2,654,918 for water infrastructure projects. Some of the projects are illegible for partial loan forgiveness – a huge benefit to local citizens. 

Illinois EPA’s State Revolving Fund includes two loan programs, the Water Pollution Control Loan Program which funds both wastewater and stormwater projects, and the Public Water Supply Loan Program for drinking water projects. Both programs provide funding at a low interest rate of just 1.81 percent for State FY24. These SRF programs receive federal capitalization funding annually, which is combined with state matching funds, interest earnings, repayment money, and periodic bond sale proceeds, to form the source of financing for these infrastructure projects. The state matching funds for State FY2020-2024 are being provided through Governor Pritzker’s bipartisan Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan, thus increasing the funding capacity of both loan programs.

Hoopeston Police Report 5/15/24

Speeding 83 in a 55 mph Zone H24-2422

Time: 12:23 am

Location: State Route 9/N 1850 East Rd

Cited: Kellie D Webb (F) (50) of Indianapolis, IN

Details: HPD conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with the above subject identified as the driver. Ms. Webb received a citation with notice to appear in Vermilion County traffic court and was released from the scene.

 

No Valid Driver’s License, Uninsured Vehicle, Operating Vehicle with No Evidence of Registration H24-2443

Time: 11:56 pm

Location: E Main/S Market St

Cited: Kenneth D. L. Denton (M) (34) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with the listed subject identified as the driver. Mr. Denton was released from the scene and was mailed citations for the above charges and notice to appear in Vermilion County traffic court.

Man dead, woman airlifted after Iroquois County crash

 A Cissna Park man is dead and an Ashkum woman is hurt after a crash in Iroquois County on Monday morning.

Just before 9:40 a.m., Iroquois County Sheriff’s Deputies, Crescent EMS, and Watseka Fire arrived at the scene in rural Watseka. Authorities said the accident happened at the 1600 East and 1900 North intersection.

An investigation suggested that 77-year-old Rodney Windhorn of Cissna Park was traveling south on 1600 East. Meanwhile Rhonda Kollmann, 66 of Ashkum, was traveling east. Windhorn failed to stop at the fully marked intersection, hitting Kollmann’s van.

 

 

The Iroquois County Sheriff’s Office said Windhorn was pronounced dead at the scene. Kollmann was hurt and taken to a nearby hospital, then ultimately airlifted to another one for further treatment.

Illinois State Police assisted the Sheriff’s Office at the scene. The incident remains under investigation.

Hoopeston Police Report 5/12/24

Traffic Accident H24-2343 Date/Time: 5/9/24 3:45pm Location: 100 blk N 4th St Unit # 1: 2012 Toyota driven by Olivia LaBounty (F) (20) of Hoopeston Unit # 2: 2012 Buick parked and unoccupied, owned by Jennifer Cundiff of Hoopeston Details: Unit # 1 was backing out of a parking space and struck Unit #2. No injuries, no tickets and both vehicles were insured.

 

Domestic Battery, Intimidation of a Witness H24-2384 2024-3598 Time: 6:31 pm Location: Primrose/Larkspur Ln Arrested: Kevin E Lefever (M) (25) of Penfield Details: HPD was dispatched to the area for a disturbance where Mr. Lefever was then arrested for the listed charges and transported to HPD for processing. He was later transported to the PSB in Danville to await arraignment. 

Governor Pritzker Awards $1.7 Million to 40 Recipients as Part of the Made in Illinois Grant Program

Today, Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) awarded $1.7 million in grant funding to 40 small and mid-sized manufacturers across the state through the Made in Illinois Grant Program. The Made in Illinois program provides up to $50,000 in matching grant funding to local Illinois manufacturers to support innovation and strategic advancements in manufacturing. IMEC served as grant administrator for this program.

“Manufacturing is on the rise in Illinois and my administration is providing local manufacturers with the resources they need to compete in the future,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Thanks to this grant, 40 diverse recipients across the state will receive the capital they need to advance innovation in their field.”

The program originally allocated $1 million in funding and was increased to $1.7 million due to resounding interest in the program from Illinois’ small and mid-sized manufacturers. The Made in Illinois program underscores the State of Illinois’ commitment to strengthening its manufacturing base which is a vital component of the state’s economy. By providing financial support to local manufacturers, the program encourages innovation and advancement within the industry while contributing to job creation and economic prosperity throughout Illinois communities.

“Illinois is a globally recognized manufacturing leader and small and medium-sized manufacturers are a critical part of our state’s manufacturing sector and economy,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Through the Made in Illinois Program, the State is reinforcing its commitment to providing resources and opportunities to Illinois’ world-class manufacturers while supporting communities across the state.”

The Made in Illinois Grant Program represents a significant step forward in enhancing the competitiveness and resilience of Illinois' manufacturing sector. The selected manufacturers, spread across various sectors and regions of the state, exemplify the diverse capabilities and potential of Illinois’ manufacturers.

“The Made in Illinois Grant Program is just one example of the dedication to supporting Illinois manufacturers in their pursuit of excellence,” said David Boulay, Ph.D., President of IMEC. “By investing in innovation and strategic initiatives, these businesses are empowered to thrive and drive economic growth across the state.”

Grantee

Location

Grant Amount

555 International, Inc.

Chicago

$47,420

AFC Packaging LLC (Policarta Packaging)

Lake in The Hills

$47,420

Aurora Specialty Textiles Group, Inc.

Yorkville

$47,420

Axis Designs, Inc.

Aurora

$47,420

Boombox Beverage LLC

Skokie

$47,420

BTM Industries

Woodstock

$47,420

Cardinal Plating Solutions

Aledo

$47,420

Carl Buddig and Company

South Holland

$39,073

Carolina Brands (Rutland)

Jacksonville

$46,652

Chicago Metal Supply & Fabrication Inc.

Chicago

$47,420

Clifford-Jacobs Forging Company

Champaign

$33,510

Curtis Thermal Processing

Machesney Park

$47,420

Designcraft, Inc.

Lake Zurich

$47,420

Double S Liquid Feed Services, Inc.

Danville

$35,565

Elkay Plastics Co., Inc.

Schaumburg

$47,420

Ergoseal

Carol Stream

$47,420

Forster Tool & Manufacturing

Bensenville

$47,420

Gallagher Asphalt Corporation

Thornton

$47,420

Gallagher Corporation

Gurnee

$7,903

Intertape Polymer Group

Carbondale

$47,420

JT Fennell Co., Inc.

Chillicothe

$47,420

KrisDee & Associates

South Elgin

$47,420

La Criolla, Inc.

Alsip

$47,420

Livingston Pipe and Tube

Staunton

$47,420

MicroWeld

Peoria

$47,420

Midwest Printed Circuit Services, Inc.

Round Lake Beach

$47,420

Moline Welding Inc.

Milan

$47,420

MTM Recognition

Princeton

$43,942

Muenchau Metal Works, LLC

Mascoutah

$47,420

Old Irving Brewing Co (Tripp Brewery, LLC)

Chicago

$47,420

RetMap, Inc.

Chicago

$27,504

Ro-Pal Grinding Inc.

Rockford

$47,420

Scot Forge Co.

Spring Grove

$47,420

Signarama Grayslake

Grayslake

$16,597

Square 1 Precision Lighting Inc.

Stone Park

$14,226

Tri-City Heat Treat Company

Rock Island

$47,420

Triangle Package Machinery Company

Chicago

$47,420

Wagner Machine Company

Champaign

$47,420

Watershed Foods, LLC

Gridley

$47,420

Whitey’s Ice Cream

Moline

$47,420

“Manufacturing is evolving rapidly, and staying current can be costly. Over the past five years, there's been significant investment in new equipment. Automating processes has been a critical strategic move and seeking assistance has proved highly advantageous during this transition period,” said Kurt Wagner, CEO of Wagner Machine in Champaign. “Automation has enabled the workforce to focus on higher-value tasks, enhancing efficiency, and quality improvements. This has led to continued job creation and an increase in machinist wages.”

“The Made in Illinois Grant is great program to drive local investment,” said Dan Foelske, VP Operations & Controller at Axis Designs in Aurora. “Axis Designs is currently on a steep growth trajectory. This award will help us add the automation and create the new jobs we need to support the ramp-up in demand.” 

Grant recipients are utilizing the funds in a variety of uses to directly advance innovation and growth in their fields. This includes machinery acquisition, including state-of-the-art 3D printers, specialized automation equipment, and collaborative robotics. Late-stage product testing and scaling efforts is also a key focus for grantees, which is essential for successful product deployment.

In addition to the grant opportunity, the Made in Illinois Grant Program also offers manufacturers access to expertise and resources, guiding them toward a future defined by productivity and innovation. Through expertise and resources and through the grant program, manufacturers are set to benefit from:

  • Productivity Boost: Grant funds support production enhancements for sustained growth.
  • Innovation Focus: The program encourages manufacturers to integrate cutting-edge technologies for continuous improvement.
  • Cost-Effective Innovation: Backed by IMEC's expertise, manufacturers innovate while keeping costs in check.
  • Quality Improvement: Grant recipients invest in automation to elevate product quality.
  • Workforce Support: Automation and smart technologies equip manufacturers with an opportunity to up-skill their workforce.
  • Market Leadership: Manufacturers gain a leadership position by adopting cutting-edge technologies.
  • Machinery Acquisition: Emphasis on strategic acquisition for advanced machinery.
  • Flexibility and Resilience: Fosters adaptability through advanced technologies to lower operational risk and pivot to market shifts.

Hoopeston Police Report 5/8/24

Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Valid Driver’s License, Operating Uninsured Motor Vehicle H24-2303, 2024-3464

Date: 05/07/2024

Time: 12:48 a.m.

Arrested: Ashley Tucker (F) (36) of Hoopeston, IL

Details: HPD initiated a traffic stop for the vehicle Ms. Tucker was driving for a traffic violation. A computer check revealed she did not have a valid driver’s license. She was arrested after methamphetamine was found. She was arrested, taken to HPD, and then later transported to the PSB in Vermilion County.

 

 

Warrant Arrest H24-2307, 2024-3465

Date: 05/07/2024

Time: 12:48 a.m.

Arrested: Jason Kinnaird (M) (47) of Hoopeston, IL

Details: HPD initiated a traffic and Mr. Kinnaird was found to be the passenger. Upon a computer check it was revealed that Mr. Kinnaird was wanted on a Vermilion County warrant. He was arrested, taken to HPD, and then later transported to the PSB in Vermilion County.

 

 

Fire Call

Time: 2:09 p.m.

Location: 600 block of West Elm

Details: HFD and HPD were called to the area as an illegal burn. The fire was put out.

Hoopeston Police Report 5/7/2024

Burglary to Auto (delayed entry) H24-0228, 2024-3433 Date: 01/13/2024 Time: 7:02 pm Complainant: 44 year old Hoopeston female Arrested: Anthony Chandler (M) (42) of Hoopeston Details: At above time and date, HPD officers took a report for burglary to auto. After an investigation, Mr. Chandler was arrested and taken to HPD then later transported to the Danville PSB to await arraignment. Possession of Methamphetamine; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia H24-2290, 2024-3434 Time: 2:25 am Location: 400 Block of East Honeywell Arrested: Anthony Chandler (M) (42) of Hoopeston Details: HPD officers were on foot patrol when they stopped and questioned Mr. Chandler. He was brought to HPD for questioning in a previous case. A search found methamphetamines and paraphernalia. He was arrested and taken to HPD and then later transported to Danville PSB to await arraignment. Wanted on Warrant (Vermilion County) H24-2299 2024-3459 Time: 8:51 pm Location: 400 blk S Dixie Highway Arrested: Brian P Root (M) (52) of Hoopeston Details: HPD located the above subject known to have an active Vermilion County warrant. He was taken into custody and transported to HPD for processing. He was later transported to the Public Safety Building Danville, IL by the Vermilion County Sheriff’s Department to await arraignment. 

Hoopeston Police Report 5/6/2024

Operating Vehicle with Expired Registration Plates or Registration Sticker, Operating Uninsured Vehicle H24-2238 Time/Date: 5/2/24 9:16pm Location: W Orange/1st Av Cited: Susie Wisdom (F) (47) of Hoopeston Details: HPD officers stopped the vehicle Ms. Wisdom was driving for a traffic violation. A computer check revealed the registration was expired. Subject was given citations and was released from scene with traffic court date.

 

Traffic Accident H24-2244 Time: 7:58PM Location: 700 blk of E Maple Unit 1: 2004 GMC Sierra driven by a 16yr old Male of Hoopeston Unit 2: 2010 Pontiac G6 parked by a 16yr old Female of Hoopeston Details: Driver of Unit 1 was backing out of the driveway when he struck Unit 2 which was parked. Both units insured, no tickets or injuries. Both driven from the scene.

 

Wanted on Warrants H24-2248 Time: 6:19 pm Location: 400 block of N Market Arrested: James Shoulders (M) (60) of Olathe, KS Details: Officers checked out with Mr. Shoulders. A computer check revealed he had outstanding warrants from Saline Co, IL and Johnson Co, KS. He was arrested and taken to HPD for processing then transported to the PSB in Danville to await extradition.

 

Speeding 52 in a 35 Time: 9:18 pm Location: 900 Block of West Orange Arrested: Waylon Henning (M) (26) of Rossville, IL Details: HPD officers stopped Mr. Henning for a traffic violation. He received a citation for speeding and a Vermilion County Traffic Court date then released from the scene.

 

Driving While Registration Suspended H24-2272 Time: 12:42 am Location: N 6th Ave/W Main St Cited: Reina L Tapia (F) (21) of Hoopeston Details: HPD conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with the above subject identified as the driver. Ms. Tapia was cited for the listed charge and released from the scene with a notice to appear in Vermilion County traffic court.

Pedestrian killed in Vermilion County

The Vermilion County Coroner stated that a male/white pedestrian who was struck by multiple motor vehicles on County Road 2030 East north of Voorhees Street in the early morning hours of Tuesday, April 30th, 2024 is still under investigation. An Autopsy was preformed late yesterday and an identification has not yet been made.

 

The Vermilion County Sheriff’s Office and the Vermilion County Coroner’s office continue to investigate. Authorities ask that anyone with information as to the identity of the decedent or the circumstances surrounding the traffic crash to contact the Vermilion County Sheriff’s Office at 217-442-4080 or Vermilion County Crimestoppers

Hoopeston Police Report 5/2/2024

Warrant Arrest( Vermilion County 23CM347) H24-2217 2024-3292

Time: 4:39PM

Location: 101 W Main St(Tedd’s Home Beverage)

Arrested: Courtney J St Clair(34)(F)of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were out with Ms. St Clair and a computer check showed Ms. St Clair to have

an active Vermilion County Warrant. Ms. St Clair was arrested and transported to HPD for

processing and later transported to the PSB by a Vermilion County Sheriff Deputy.

 

Fire Call

Time: 11:07 pm

Location: 500 blk E Main St

Details: HFD was dispatched for an odor investigation. All units cleared without further incident.

Archives:

2026-04 | 2026-03 | 2026-02 | 2026-01 | 2025-12 | 2025-11 | 2025-10 | 2025-09 | 2025-08 | 2025-07 | 2025-06 | 2025-05 | 2025-04 | 2025-03 | 2025-02 | 2025-01 | 2024-12 | 2024-11 | 2024-10 | 2024-09 | 2024-08 | 2024-07 | 2024-06 | 2024-05 | 2024-04 | 2024-03 | 2024-02 | 2024-01 | 2023-12 | 2023-11 | 2023-10 | 2023-09 | 2023-08 | 2023-07 | 2023-06 | 2023-05 | 2023-04 | 2023-03 | 2023-02 | 2023-01 | 2022-12 | 2022-11 | 2022-10 | 2022-09 | 2022-08 | 2022-07 | 2022-06 | 2022-05 | 2022-04 | 2022-03 | 2022-02 | 2022-01 | 2021-12 | 2021-11 | 2021-10 | 2021-09 | 2021-08 | 2021-07 | 2021-06 | 2021-05 | 2021-04 | 2021-03 | 2021-02 | 2021-01 | 2020-12 | 2020-11 | 2020-10 | 2020-09 | 2020-08 | 2020-07 | 2020-06 | 2020-05 | 2020-04 | 2020-03 | 2020-02 | 2020-01 | 2019-12 | 2019-11 | 2019-10 | 2019-09 | 2019-08 | 2019-07 | 2019-06 | 2019-05 | 2019-04 | 2019-03 | 2019-02 | 2019-01 | 2018-12 | 2018-11 | 2018-10 | 2018-09 | 2018-08 | 2018-07 | 2018-06 | 2018-05 | 2018-04 | 2018-03 | 2018-02 | 2018-01 | 2017-12 | 2017-11 | 2017-10 | 2017-09 | 2017-08 | 2017-07 | 2017-06 | 2017-05 | 2017-04 | 2017-03

On Air Now

Westwood One Country
9:00am - 11:59pm
Westwood One Country

Listen on Alexa

Facebook

Weather