Operating Uninsured Vehicle Time: Location: Cited: Details: 2:56 p.m. W Orange St / S 1st Ave Katy Beverage (F) (35) of Hoopeston H25-2509 HPD Officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. Ms. Beverage was unable to submit proof of insurance in the allotted time given and was cited for the above charge.

 

Accident Time: Location: Unit 1: Unit 2: Details: H25-2555 8:04 a.m. 400 blk of E Maple (in alley) 2012 Chevrolet Suburban driven by Joyce Fink (F) (68) of Hoopeston 2014 Ford Explorer driven by Cynthia Barreto (F) (52) of Hoopeston Unit 1 was pulling out of the driveway into the alley and did not see Unit 2 as it was traveling eastbound in the alley. Both units were insured, no injuries were reported, and no citations were issued.  

CHATHAM — The driver of a vehicle involved in a deadly crash Monday at an after-school program formerly worked for the Illinois State Police, the agency investigating the crash.

The ISP identified the driver as Marianne Akers, 44, of Chatham. She worked at the ISP from June 2006 to August 2018, an ISP spokesman confirmed Tuesday.

 

The crash occurred at 3:20 p.m. Monday when Akers’ black Jeep left the road and traveled through a field, hitting the east side of a building that housed the YNOT, which stands for Youth Needing Other Things, an after-school camp in Chatham. The car drove through the building, striking several children and workers, before it exited the other side.

Those killed were Ainsley Johnson, 8; Kathryn Corley, 7; Alma Buhnerkempe, 7, all of Chatham, and Rylee Britton, 18, of Springfield, a counselor. All the victims died of blunt force trauma, according to Sangamon County Coroner Jim Allmon.

Six other children were hospitalized, one in critical condition.

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The building that houses the after-school program has a gym on the bottom floor and play areas upstairs. Children often sat on the wall during playtime at the gym.

After crashing through the building, the SUV traveled across a basketball court then hit a light pole and a fence around a small park near the Chatham water tower.

Akers was the only one in the vehicle and was not injured, according to police. She was taken to a local hospital for evaluation.

 

The cause of the crash remains under investigation; toxicology reports are pending. Police said Monday it was not a targeted attack.

Akers is a current employee of the Illinois Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Business Services, according to an IDOT spokesman. She has been employed by the agency since November 2023.

She also is a former cafeteria employee of Glenwood High School in Chatham.

Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser said Tuesday that police have made no arrests.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families impacted by this terrible tragedy,” Milhiser said.

Chatham, a close-knit community of 15,000 people, is about 2.8 miles from the state capital of Springfield. Chatham schools are closed for the rest of the week.

Gov. JB Pritzker commented on the tragedy late Monday.

“I am horrified and deeply saddened by the deaths of children and numerous injuries in Chatham this afternoon,” Pritzker said in a statement. “My heart is heavy for these families and the unimaginable grief they’re experiencing — something that no parent should ever have to endure.”

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Studio M Dance Centre in Chatham where Ainsley Johnson danced posted a tribute on social media Tuesday.

“Ainsley was such a sweet and sassy dancer/tumbler at our Studio and Complex — bringing joy, passion, and lots of laughter to her peers in class and her dance teachers. Her spirit will always be a part of our dance family, and she will be deeply missed every single day,” the message said.

Britton was preparing to attend the University of Iowa to study English and secondary education. One of her fellow Glenwood High School students stated that she “was always kind to everyone.”

Community members shared several Facebook posts Monday urging residents to donate blood. By Tuesday morning, all of the time slots were booked until Friday. By Tuesday afternoon, Glenwood High School Student Council had raised over $100,000 for the victims’ families through a GoFundMe page.

Chatham Village President Dave Kimsey ordered all flags in Chatham to be flown at half-staff for the next week. A candlelight vigil was to be held Tuesday night at Village Square Park, and another will be held Wednesday night at Glenwood High School.

In a Facebook post Tuesday, SIU Medicine announced that counseling and trauma support for Chatham residents will be available at Chatham Presbyterian Church on Wednesday and Thursday.

Driving While License Revoked, Driving Motor Vehicle With Suspended Registration, Operating Uninsured Vehicle H25-2515 Time: Location: Arrested: Details: 7:30 p.m. W Main St/ S 7th Ave Michael Bell (M) (44) of Danville HPD officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. After a computer check revealed Mr. Bell to be driving on the above violations, he was arrested and transported to HPD for processing, where he was later charged and released with an NTA for Vermilion County Court. 

 

Fire Call

Time: 7:48 am

Location: 800 blk E McNeil

Details: HFD was dispatched to the report of a dryer fire. Fire was extinguished.

 

Operation of Non-highway Vehicle on Street, Road, Highway H25-2526

Time: 8:50am

Location: W Washington/S 6th Av

Cited: Alexander Napier (M) (30) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers stopped the 4-wheeler Mr. Napier was driving. He was sighted for

the above charge and was given a Vermilion County Traffic court date.

DWLS, Driving While Registration Suspended for Non Insurance H25-2484

Time: 12:56 p.m.

Location: 500 Blk of N Dixie Hwy

Arrested: Joshua Johnson (M) (28) of Chicago

Details: HPD officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. A computer check revealed Mr. Johnson to be driving on the above violations. HPD officers arrested Mr. Johnson and transported him to the HPD for processing. He was later released with an NTA for Vermilion County Court.

 

Operating Uninsured Vehicle H25-2495

Time: 10:16 p.m.

Location: N 6th Ave / W Young Ave

Cited: Joshua Kempen (M) (35) of Hoopeston

Details. HPD officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. Mr. Kempen was cited for the above violation and released from the scene with an NTA for Vermilion County Court.

Operation of a Motor Vehicle with Suspended Registration for Mandatory InsuranceH25-2457

Time: 5:14 a.m.

Location: 300 Blk. of S. Dixie Hwy.

Cited: Dusty Bouchard (M) (38) of Paxton

Details: HPD officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. A computer check revealed Mr. Bouchard to be driving while suspended. He was issued a citation/NTA for Vermilion County Court. The vehicle was towed from the scene.

Disorderly Conduct; Harassment Through Electronic Device H25-2455

Time: 11:27 p.m.

Location: 500 Blk. of E. McNeil Ave.

Cited: Shane Grimoldby (M) (18) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were called to the above location for a disturbance. Upon investigation, HPD officers issued Mr. Grimoldby a Misdemeanor Complaint/NTA for Vermilion County Court.

 Illinois State Police (ISP) Troop 7 Commander Heather Apperson announces the results of Distracted Driving Enforcement Patrols held in Macon and Vermilion counties during April. This program provided extra patrol coverage for ISP officers to focus on saving lives and reducing serious crashes by enforcing distracted driving laws. Violations Enforcement Activity Hand-held phone/device citations 60 Texting while driving citations 4 Other types of distracted driving citations 0 Total distracted driving citations 64 Total distracted driving written warnings 0 Total of all citations 91 Total of all written warnings 6 This project was funded through the Illinois Department of Transportation. 

The United Way of Danville Area is excited to announce that tickets are officially on sale for United We Cook, one of the Agency’s most anticipated events of the year! Join us on Saturday, May 17, 2025, for an unforgettable evening of delicious food, great company, and community spirit.

United We Cook brings together local “celebrity” chefs—from business leaders to community advocates—who will showcase their culinary skills in a friendly competition. Guests will enjoy tastings from each chef’s signature dish and vote for their favorites in several fun categories.

Event Highlights:

? Saturday, May 17, 2025

? David S. Palmer Arena,100 West Main St., Danville, IL 61832

? Doors open at 4:30 PM | Event runs 5:00–8:00 PM

? $50 General Admission (21+ only)

Here’s what’s on the menu:

? Local volunteer chefs serving up their signature dishes

? Tip jars to vote for your faves (every dollar supports United Way!)

? Cash bar & unforgettable atmosphere

? 100% of proceeds fund programs right here in our community

Proceeds from the event directly support the United Way’s mission to fund local programs that strengthen health, youth opportunity, community resiliency and financial security in Vermilion County, IL and Fountain, and Warren Counties in IN. United Way of Danville Area supports 20 agencies and 27 programs locally!

Tickets are available now and expected to sell quickly. For ticket information, chef lineups, and event details, visit: www.unitedwayda.org/uwc-event

Let’s come together to eat well and give back.

Violation of Classification (Motorcycle), Special Restrictions on Lamps (White Light shining to rear) (Delayed Entry) H25-2382

Date/Time: 4/21/2025 8:10 p.m.

Location: W. Thompson Ave./ N. 6th Ave.

Cited: Shane McCarty (M) (38) of Rankin

Details: HPD officers conducted a traffic stop. Mr. McCarty was cited for the above charges and released from the scene with an NTA for Vermilion County Court. The motorcycle was towed from the scene.

 

Operating Motor Vehicle w/ Expired Registration Sticker H25-2395

Time: 5:22am

Location: W Thompson/N 10th Av

Cited: Travis Rensner (M) (36) of Hanover Park, IL

Details: HPD officers stopped the vehicle Mr. Rensner was driving for a traffic violation. A computer

check revealed that the registration was expired. Subject was given a traffic citation and

traffic court date and then released from scene.

On April l1, 2025, Rosmiro Arvizu (DOB 2/18/1967), previously of Bismarck, Illinois, was sentenced after pleading guilty to Child Pornography, a class X felony. During the contested sentencing hearing, the People presented aggravation and the Defense presented mitigation. After hearing argument from both sides, Judge Mark S. Goodwin sentenced the defendant to 8 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections. Following imprisonment, Arvizu will serve a term of mandatory supervised release from 3 years to natural life and will be required to register as a sex offender for life. At the sentencing hearing, the People presented evidence that Illinois State Police Investigations received reports of child pornography being disseminated by accounts belonging to Rosmiro Arvizu. On July 18, 2024 Arvizu was searched incident to arrest and had a cell phone on his person which was seized. During an interview with agents from the Illinois State Police and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, Arvizu showed investigators an online account that had been created just 4 days prior and admitted to creating and using the accounts under investigation to receive and send child pornography. The defendant also admitted to saving child pornography to his phone for his later “pleasure.” Vermilion County State’s Attorney Jacqueline Lacy said, “Distributing child pornography is a heinous crime. Reproducing child pornography further prolongs the suffering of each victim. My office will continue to pursue justice in cases involving the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. I would like to thank the agents with the Illinois State Police and the Attorney General’s Office who worked to ensure this defendant is held accountable.” 

Traffic Accident (Delayed Entry) H25-2295

Date/Time: 04/18/2025 6:43 p.m.

Location: 1023 W. Main St. (The Pump)

Unit #1: 2016 Lincoln driven by Edward Karr (M) (84) of Paxton

Unit #2: 2020 Ford driven by Angelina Resendez (F) (16) of Hoopeston

Details: Driver of Unit# 2 had their vehicle parked at the above location when Unit#1 passed by and brushed Unit# 2’s mirror. No injuries were reported. Both units were insured, and no tickets were issued.

 

Illegal Transportation of Alcohol / Passenger H25-2341

Time: 12:23 a.m.

Location: W. Main St. / S. 6th Ave.

Cited: Elbert Cannon (M) (58) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD Officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. After a permissible search of the vehicle, Mr. Cannon was cited for the above violation and released from the scene with an NTA for Vermilion County Court.

 

Retail Theft (Under $300) H25-2348

Time: 4:39 a.m.

Location: 415 S. Dixie Hwy. (Dollar General)

Arrested: Kevin Lambert (M) (38) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were dispatched to the above location after a report was received for retail theft. Officers located Mr. Lambert, and he was arrested. He was processed at HPD then released with an NTA for Vermilion County Court.

 

Traffic Accident H25-2357

Time: 3:50 p.m.

Location: 824 S. Dixie Hwy.

Unit #1: 2004 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Zachary Jones (M) (24) of Hoopeston

Unit #2: 2021 Hyundai Sonata driven by Eric Savage (M) (19) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were called to a traffic accident at the above location. There were no injuries. Both units were insured and no citations issued.

 

ILCS: Possession of Open Container by a Passenger H25-2360

Time: 5:18 p.m.

Location: S. Dixie Hwy. / W. Penn St.

Cited : Kalena Creekmore (F) (22) of Milford

Details: HPD officers were conducting a traffic stop at the above location. Ms. Creekmore, a passenger in the vehicle, was found to have an open container. She was cited on scene and released with an NTA for Vermilion County Court.

 

 

Obstructing Identification; Obstructing Justice; Resisting or Obstructing a Peace Officer

H25-0527 2025-2622

Date/Time 01/27/2025 1:41 p.m.

Obstruction of Identification; Operation of a Motor Vehicle with Suspended Registration for

Mandatory Insurance Violations; Driving with No Valid Driver's LicenseH25-2360 2025-2623

Time: 5:18 p.m.

Location: S. Dixie Hwy. / W. Penn St.

Arrested : Michael Taylor, Jr. (M) (24) of Danville

Details: HPD officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. Mr. Taylor, Jr. failed to give proper identification information, and a computer check found him to be driving on the above violations. He was also wanted by HPD for prior charges. Mr. Taylor was taken to HPD for processing then was later transported to the PSB in Danville to await arraignment.

 

 

Special Restrictions on Lamps H25-2364

Time: 8:34 p.m.

Location: N. Market St. / E. Thompson Ave.

Cited: Andrew Perkins (M) (16) of Westville

Details: HPD officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. Mr. Perkins was driving with illegal lamps. He was issued a citation for an NTA in Vermilion County Court then was released from the scene.

 

ILCS: Operating Motor Vehicle with Expired Registration Sticker H25-2365

Time: 9:52 p.m.

Location: 900 Blk. of S. Dixie Hwy.

Arrested: Kayla Bretveld (F) (29) of Kempton, IL

Details: HPD officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. A computer check revealed the registration to be expired. Ms. Bretveld was cited for the above violation with an NTA for Vermilion County Court. The vehicle was towed from the scene

Operating Motor Vehicle With Suspended Registration For Mandatory Insurance

/Operating Uninsured Vehicle H25-2306

Time: 11:35 p.m.

Location: 300 Block of S. 2nd Ave

Cited: Nicolas Green (M) (44) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD Officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. A computer check revealed Mr. Green to be driving on the above violation. Officers cited Mr. Green for the above charges. Mr. Green was released from the scene with an NTA for Vermilion County Court.

 

Wanted on a Champaign County H25-2321, 2025-2594

Time: 4:30 p.m.

Location: 700 Blk of W. Washington St.

Arrested: Joshua Kempen (M) (35) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers located Mr. Kempen in the above area. A computer check revealed he was wanted on a Champaign County warrant. He was arrested and brought to HPD for processing. He was later transported to the PSB in Danville to await transportation to Champaign County.

Operating Motor Vehicle When Registration Suspended for No Insurance H25-2279

Time: 2:58 a.m.

Location: 824 S. Dixie Hwy (McDonalds)

Cited: Donna Trumann (F) (53) Of Watseka

Details: HPD Officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. A computer check revealed Ms. Trumann to be driving on the above violation. She was issued a citation with an NTA for Vermilion County Court.

 

Operating Motor Vehicle When Registration Suspended for No Insurance H25-2280

Time: 3:57 a.m.

Location: 824 S. Dixie Hwy (McDonalds)

Cited: Jessica Thomas (F) (40) Of Danville

Details: HPD Officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. A computer check revealed Ms. Thomas to be driving on the above violation. She was issued a citation with an NTA for Vermilion County Court.

 Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 5 special agents issued a Notice to Appear in Champaign County on May 22, 2025, to 40-year-old Matthew Stuckey, for Theft of Property over $10,000, but less than $100,000 (Class 2 Felony).

 

In November 2024, ISP special agents initiated an investigation into allegations of misuse of funds made to the 10-78 Foundation (Back the Blue Champaign County). After a thorough investigation, special agents found evidence of transactions consistent with personal use by Stuckey, one of the organizers of the 10-78 Foundation. Stuckey is currently a Champaign County Sheriff’s Deputy. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Illinois State Police Zone 5 Investigations at 217-278-5000. The investigation will be turned over to the Champaign County State’s Attorney’s Office when completed. No additional information is available.

 

The charge is not evidence against the defendant, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Fire Call

Time: 12:02 a.m.

Location: 700 Blk. of E. Main St.

Details: HFD was dispatched to the above location for a reported fire. Upon arrival an illegal burn was extinguished. HFD cleared the scene.

On 04/15/2025 Hoopeston Police Department was contacted about a video that was posted on Snapchat. The video showed a male juvenile being held at gunpoint being told to take articles of clothing off while being told to repeat degrading remarks. There was another male juvenile sitting next to the victim along with a second male that records a portion of the incident. The 11-year-old suspect was released from HPD (Hoopeston Police Department) and the two 14-year-old suspects were transported to the Vermilion County Juvenile Detention Center.

 

 

 

The charges are not evidence against the defendant, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Wanted on Vermilion Co. Warrant; Resisting/Obstructing a Peace Officer H25-2218

Time: 2:45 p.m.

Location: 800 Blk. of W. Penn St.

Arrested: Santos Vasquez (M) (82) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD Officers arrested Mr. Vasquez at the above location for an active Vermilion Co. Warrant. In addition, he was charged with the above offenses. He was taken to the HPD for processing, then later transferred to the PSB in Danville to await arraignment.

 

Fire Call

Time: 6:12 p.m.

Location: 301 W. Main St.- Hoopeston Police Department

Details: HFD were dispatched to the above business for a pole down across wires. HFD cleared the scene and Hoopeston Street and Alley was notified.

Operating Motor Vehicle with Suspended Registration for Mandatory Insurance Violation

H25-2210

Time: 8:47 p.m.

Location: S. Market St. / E. Maple St.

Cited: James McClure (M) (27) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD Officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. A computer check revealed Mr. McClure was driving on the above violation. He was cited for the above charges and released from the scene with an NTA for Vermilion County Court. The vehicle was towed from the scene.

Possession of Stolen Property H25-2157 2025-2514

Date/Time: 04-12-2025 @ 6:14 p.m.

Location: 500 Blk. of E. Main St.

Arrested: Wade Bennett (M) (33) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers were alerted by Clay County Indiana Sheriff’s Department of a resident involved in the theft of a motorcycle. After locating the motorcycle, Mr. Bennett was taken to HPD for processing and then later transported to the PSB in Danville to await arraignment.

 

Found Item

Details: A debit card was left at HPD. The owner may come to retrieve it.

 

No Valid Driver's License, Operating Motor Vehicle When Registration is Suspended for Mandatory

Insurance H25-2185

Time: 6:52 p.m.

Location: W. Orange St./ S. 2nd Ave.

Cited: Eduardo Antunez (M) (49) of Boswell, IN

Details: HPD officers conducted a traffic stop. A computer search revealed that the vehicle’s plates were suspended for non-insurance. Mr. Antunez was released from the scene with citations for the above charges, and a Notice to Appear in Vermilion County Court. The vehicle was towed from the scene.

Criminal Trespass to a Residence; Resisting/Obstructing a Peace Officer Time: Location: Arrested: Details: 2:04 a.m. 300 Blk. of W. Elm St. Jason Reyes (M) (37) of Hoopeston H25-2118 HPD responded to a domestic dispute in the area. Mr. Reyes was located and taken into custody for the listed charges. He was transported to HPD for processing and later released with an NTA for Vermilion County Court.

 

Operating Vehicle w/ Expired Registration Time: Location: Cited: Details: 4:23 a.m. E. 4300 Rd./N. Market St. Katelyn Lane (F) (29) of Hoopeston H25-2119 HPD officers stopped the vehicle Ms. Lane was driving for a traffic violation. A computer check revealed that the registration was expired. She was cited and given a Vermilion County traffic court date.

 

Grooming, Indecent Solicitation of a Child Time: Location: Arrested: Details: 11:50 a.m. 500 Blk. of E. Honeywell Ave. Moises Torres (M) (41) of Hoopeston H25-2121 2025-2367 HPD officers were dispatched to the above area. Mr. Torres was taken into custody, and an investigation was conducted. He was arrested for the above charges and taken to the PSB in Danville to await arraignment.  

Operating Uninsured Vehicle H25-2112

Time: 8:42 p.m.

Location: W. Penn St. & S. College St.

Cited: Raquel Torres (F) (55) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers conducted a traffic stop. Mr. Torres was cited for the above charge and released from the scene with a Notice to Appear in Vermilion County Court.

 

Driving While License Suspended H25-2114

Time: 10:57 p.m.

Location: W. Chestnut St. & S. 5th Ave.

Arrested: Darin Hurt (M) (53) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers conducted a traffic stop. A computer check revealed that Mr. Hurt had a suspended driver’s license. He was arrested and taken to HPD for processing. He was later released with a citation for the above charge and a Notice to Appear in Vermilion County Court.

On April 3, 2025, Jeffrey Schlunaker (DOB: 9/2/1966), formerly of Danville, Illinois, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 9 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for the offense of Indecent Solicitation, a class 1 felony. Following his term of imprisonment, Schlunaker will serve one year mandatory supervised release. The plea hearing was presided over by Judge Karen Wall. The People presented evidence that on December 14, 2024, the Danville Police were dispatched to the scene of a citizen’s arrest. Upon arrival, officers found the defendant in the custody of members of two citizen groups whose stated purposes were to reduce the number of child sexual predators. In this case, group members engaged in an online chat with Jeffrey Schlunaker, who explicitly described how he wanted to engage in sexual intercourse with a child whom he knew to be 11 to 12 years of age. After making arrangements and telling the undercover citizen that he did not want to get caught having sex with a 12-year-old, Schlunaker made his way to the pre arranged meeting spot. He was assured that the child’s mother would not be home. Schlunaker arrived and approached the actress posing as a child. The group members approached Schlunaker and he was interviewed on camera before being restrained to wait for police to arrive. Schlunaker confessed his intentions to engage in sexual intercourse with a child. State’s Attorney Lacy thanked the Danville Police Department. She added, “Those who exploit and prey on children will be held accountable. My office is committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community.” As a reminder to the public, State’s Attorney Lacy added, “If you are a witness to any criminal activity, please contact the police immediately by calling 911.”

Fire Call

Time: 12:47 p.m.

Location: 800 Block of East Main Street

Details: HFD was dispatched to the above location for odor investigation. Ameren was notified and HFD cleared the scene.

Driving While License Suspended; Operating Uninsured Vehicle H25-2058 Time: Location: Arrested: Details: 11:34 325 S. Dixie Hwy. Monique D. Jefferson (F) (21) HPD officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. A computer check revealed Ms. Jefferson was operating the vehicle on the above violations. She was taken into custody at HPD, processed, then released with an NTA for Vermilion County Court in Danville, IL. 

Possession of Methamphetamine H25-2020

Time: 11:40 a.m.

Location: 200 Block of North 9th Ave.

Arrested: Gage Fouse (M) (30) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD Officers stopped a vehicle at the above location for a traffic complaint. Mr. Fouse was a passenger in this vehicle, and it was found that he had meth on his person. He was arrested and taken to HPD for processing, then later transported to the PSB to await arraignment.

 

 

ILCS: Operating Motor Vehicle with Suspended Registration for Mandatory Insurance Violation

H25-2031

Time: 11:48 p.m.

Location: S. 4th St./E. Penn St.

Cited: Jden Burks (M) (21) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. A computer check revealed Mr. Burks driving on the above violation. He was cited and released from the scene with an NTA for Vermilion County Court. The vehicle was towed from the scene.

 

City Ordinance: Owner's Duties-City Ordinance 6.08.071 (B) Adequate Shelter and Protection from the Weather Time: Location: Cited: Details: 7:55 p.m. 400 Blk. of S. 2nd Ave. Ebony Palomo (F) (35) of Hoopeston HPD responded to a complaint about a dog at the residence. After speaking with both parties, Ms. Palomo was issued an NTA for Hoopeston City Court.

 

Wanted on Vermilion County Warrant Time: Location: 6:40 p.m. H25-2042 714 W. Orange St., Hoopeston Marathon Arrested: Details: William Thomas (M) (51) of Hoopeston Mr. Thomas was arrested at the above location on a Vermilion County warrant for Failure To Appear. He was taken to the Hoopeston Police Department for processing then transported to the PSB in Danville in lieu of bond.  

ILCS: No Valid Driver's License H25-1997 Time: Location: Cited: Details: 12:48 a.m. Lincoln St. Railroad Crossing Eric Smith (M) (36) of Hoopeston HPD officers conducted a traffic stop on a golf cart. While conducting the stop officers found Mr. Smith to be driving on the above violation. He was cited on scene and released. The golf cart was released to a licensed driver. 

On Thursday, the Iroquois County Sheriff's Office pulled over James Nelson on Lincoln Avenue in Onarga. During the stop, deputies found he had a felony warrant. Deputies said Nelson refused to leave the vehicle and then reached back while threatening to detonate a bomb in the backseat.

 

Nelson then ran into a nearby home. Deputies later found Nelson in the attic of the home and arrested him. 

 

The East Central Illinois Bomb Squad found the device in the home and confirmed the explosive was real. The bomb squad then defused it.

 

In a release, the sheriff's office said Nelson was receiving treatment in the hospital for injuries sustained during the arrest. Deputies did not say how Nelson was hurt during the arrest.

Nelson now faces charges of possession of explosives and aggravated battery to an officer.

Aggravated Battery (Great Bodily Harm); Aggravated Battery (Deadly Weapon); Domestic Battery

H25-1661 2025-2086

Date/Time of Incident: 03/20/25 @ 2:31 p.m.

Location of Incident: 100 Blk. of E. Lincoln Ave.

Date/Time Arrest: 04/03/25 @ 1:23 p.m.

Location of Arrest: 300 Blk of N. Chicago St., Rossville

Arrested: Juvenile (M) (17) of Rossville

Details: On 03/20/25 officers were dispatched to the report of a disturbance. After an investigation occurred the juvenile was located, arrested, and taken to HPD. He was later transported to the PSB in Danville to be processed then transferred to the Juvenile Detention Center in Danville to await arraignment.

On April 2, 2025, David Cox (DOB: 9/17/1972), formerly of Danville, Illinois, pleaded guilty in 2023-CF-577 and 2024-CF-265 to two counts of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender – Subsequent Offense, both class 2 felonies. Cox was sentenced to 6 years Illinois Department of Corrections in each case, with sentences to run consecutively, for a total sentence of 12 years. Following his term of imprisonment, Cox will serve one year of mandatory supervised release. Judge Karen Wall presided over the plea and sentencing. The People presented evidence in 2023-CF-577, that on June 23, 2023, David Cox was released from the Illinois Department of Corrections and was required to register as a sex offender every 90 days for the remainder of his life, as required by law, due to a prior conviction. As of September 18, 2023 the defendant had failed to register his address. Officers with the Danville Police Department learned of an address on Collett Street in Danville where the defendant was residing. Officers confirmed with another occupant of the address that the defendant was living there. Officers arrived at the residence and the defendant was located and subsequently arrested. The People also presented evidence in 2024-CF-265, that Cox had registered with law enforcement that he was residing at an address on North State Street in Danville. Officers learned that the defendant had moved from the residence on April 7, 2024 to another residence on East South Street in Danville. As of April 23, 2024 Cox had failed to register his new address as required as a sex offender. When the defendant was located by law enforcement, Cox acknowledged his duty and failure to register. State’s Attorney Jacqueline Lacy thanked the Danville Police Department for their work in locating this offender and ensuring he was held accountable. She added, “The Illinois’ Sex Offender Registration Act was put in place to protect the public. This defendant had many chances to register as required, but chose repeatedly to ignore the law.”

The severe weather during the late afternoon hours Wednesday within Iroquois County generated at least two separate tornado touchdowns.

Iroquois County EMA, along with members of the Ford County EMA, accompanied the National Weather Service (NWS) survey team as they closely examined the structural damage and large debris fields that were consistent with tornadic activity. Following a discussion with Ford County Deputy EMA Coordinator Danny Neal- who witnessed the early circulation within the storm cell, the origination location in the far east side of Ford County was established. The team continued to rural Loda for the first area of significant damage, just north of the south County line on 400 East Road where major damage was found to a hog farm. At least one of the buildings was found to be completely destroyed, and several others with very heavy damage. An extremely large swath of debris extended northeast to the second location about a mile away near the intersection of 100 North Road at 500 East Road. Two separate properties suffered significant damage, with a pickup truck flipped over, and a large piece of lumber was impaled in a west facing exterior wall that penetrated into a bedroom of the residence. A very large debris field also extended northeast from those locations where the path of the first tornado came to an end. This tornado was classified as an EF-1, with winds around 100 miles per hour.

The second location of significant damage was located southwest of Cissna Park, near 1000 East 500 North Road. An outbuilding was destroyed, and another significant debris field was generated with a separate touchdown from the same storm cell as it moved northeast through the county. Two separate eyewitness accounts- both with cellphone video of the tornado on the ground, assisted in the confirmation of an EF-0 tornado, with winds around 65 miles per hour.

The NWS office issued a tornado warning for Iroquois County, regarding this specific storm cell at 5:13 pm, and included Cissna Park, Milford, Woodland and Watseka and all areas between and close to the warned area. EMA requested siren activation for the warned locations through ICOM dispatch.

Questions have been raised relating to a several minute delay between the NWS warning announcement and the siren activations. Following an internal investigation into the current procedures, a communication deficiency has been identified and is being immediately addressed.

The life safety of all Iroquois County residents is of paramount importance, and identifying potential deficiencies relating to that- and correcting them immediately, is our highest priority,

Scott Anderson, Coordinator

Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency

Wednesday afternoon had several areas of severe storms passing through the county with a countywide tornado watch being issued around 4:00 pm. EMA members and trained spotters took positions within the county to intercept the incoming storms and provide advance warning if needed.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a severe thunderstorm warning around 5pm and high winds, heavy rain and small hail were encountered near Onarga by the EMA members.

Ford County EMA members witnessed a rotating wall cloud with a separate section of the storm located southwest of Paxton- heading northeast, and the NWS issued a tornado warning for portions of Iroquois County. Siren activation was requested through ICOM for Cissna Park, Milford, Woodland and Watseka based on the issued warning.

An area of significant storm damage was reported on 100 North Road at 500 East Road in rural Loda. EMA responded to the scene and found heavy damage to several structures on two separate properties, on both sides of the intersection, about one quarter of a mile apart. A large debris field covering close to a mile in area was also observed. The NWS was notified of EMA’s findings, and an assessment team will be on scene Thursday morning to determine if the damage is consistent with a tornado.

Several other areas of power poles being toppled and sheared off between the Loda location and Cissna Park were also witnessed. These areas may also be included within the areas looked over by the assessment team.

No injuries were reported with any of these storms.

An update will be provided following the NWS assessment.

Scott Anderson, Coordinator

Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency

Fire Call Time: Location: Details: 11:53 a.m. 400 Blk. E. Thompson Ave. HFD was dispatched to the report of a smoke detector activation. A faulty detector was located and HFD cleared scene.

 

Traffic Accident--ILCS: Failure to Give Information After Striking Unattended Vehicle or Other Property H25-1860 Date/Time of Incident: Location of Incident: Date of Citation: Cited: Details: 3/27/2025 @ 8:20 p.m. Alleyway of 111 E. Main St. (Pizza King) 4/02/2025 Brandon Fletcher (M) (16) of Hoopeston Unit 1: 2000 Chevrolet driven by Brandon Fletcher Unit 2: Utility Pole owned by Frontier Communications of Norwalk, CT After an investigation by HPD, Unit 1 was found to be backing out from the parking lot behind the business and struck the utility pole in the alley. Unit 1 was insured.  

Hoopeston Mayor’s Race, Newcomer Tracy Carter defeated incumbent Mayor Jeff Wise 445 votes to 282.

 

Hoopeston Ward 1 alderman race: Toby McElhaney defeated Andrew Atchie 107-78.

 

In the Village of Rossville Trustee race: Bobbette Gammon, David Ault, & Samual Mikel were the top 3 vote getters.

 

Danville Area Community College Trustee race: Greg Wolfe & Lisa Martin were victorious for 6 year terms.

Aggravated Battery H25-1661 2025-2086

Date/Time Call: 3/20/25 2:31pm

Date/Time Arrest: 3/31/25 11:42pm

Location: 100 blk E Lincoln

Arrested: Gage Clayburn (M) (30) of Hoopeston

Details: On 3/20/25 officers were dispatched to the report of a disturbance. After an investigation,

Mr. Clayburn was arrested and taken to HPD to be processed. He was later transported to

the PSB in Danville to await arraignment.

 

Operating Uninsured Vehicle H25-1935

Time: 8:54 p.m.

Location: Rt.1 & Rt 9

Cited: Kurtis Simpson (M) (39) of Hoopeston

Details: HPD Officers conducted a traffic stop at the above location. He was cited for the above charge and released with an NTA for Vermilion County Court.