Four finalists named for two associate judge vacancies
The Circuit Judges of the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit have chosen the finalists for the associate judge vacancies. These positions are available due to the retirements of the Honorable Raymond D. Collins and the Honorable Charles D. Johnson who will be retiring from the bench on July 12, 2024, both with nearly 20 years of service to the residents of Lake County. Chief Judge Daniel B. Shanes is pleased to announce the names of the finalists: Gabriel J. Conroe of Highland Park, Matthew J. DeMartini of Antioch, Roderick A. Drobinski of Wauconda, and Sari W. Montgomery of Riverwoods. All candidates were evaluated by Lake County Bar Association’s Judicial Selection and Retention Committee members.
Mr. Conroe received his Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science and Law from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2001. In 2006, he earned his Juris Doctor from Chicago Kent College of Law. He was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2006 and is a member of the Illinois Public Defender Association and the Lake County Bar Association. Mr. Conroe has been with the Lake County Public Defender’s Office since 2006 and serves as a Principal Assistant Public Defender.
Mr. DeMartini received his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Marquette University in
1999. In 2002, he earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Illinois Chicago John Marshall Law School. He was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2002 and is a member of the Illinois State Bar Association, the Justinian Society, and the Lake County Bar Association. Mr. DeMartini previously served as an Assistant State’s Attorney with the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office, an associate at the Law Office of Rudolph F. Magna of Gurnee, an associate at the Law Office of Scott Gartner of Antioch, and is currently the owner of DeMartini Legal, Inc. of Antioch.
Mr. Drobinski received his Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from the University of Notre Dame in 1998. In 2001, he earned his Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center. He was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2001 and is a member of the Federalist Society, the Illinois Bar Association, and the Lake County Bar Association. Mr. Drobinski previously served as an Assistant State’s Attorney with the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office, as Chief of Felony and Felony Review at the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office, and is currently the sole practitioner at the Law Offices of Roderick A. Drobinski, P.C.
Ms. Montgomery received her
Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy Studies from the University of Chicago in 1991. In 1994, she earned her Juris Doctor from the Loyola University Chicago School of Law. She was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1994 and is a member of the American Bar Association, Association of Professional Responsibility Lawyers, Illinois State Bar Association, Lake County Bar Association, Association of Women Attorneys of Lake County, Chicago Bar Association, and Chicago Council of Lawyers.
Ms. Montgomery previously was Litigation Counsel at the Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission of the Supreme Court of Illinois, a Special Assistant Public Defender with the Lake County Public Defender’s Office, an adjunct professor at Loyola University Chicago School of Law, and currently an Adjunct Professor at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law and a Partner at Robinson, Stewart, Montgomery & Doppke LLC.
The Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts will prepare the ballots containing the finalists’ names and mail them to the Lake County Circuit Judges. Each Circuit Judge will cast a secret ballot, and after the votes have been tabulated in Springfield, Chief Judge Shanes will be notified of the results.
LCEMA annual severe weather course successfully educates residents
The Lake County Emergency Management Agency (LCEMA) held their annual Severe Weather Spotter Course recently to educate residents on storm safety and help build community resilience. Two Severe Weather courses were offered on June 5 at the Central Permit Facility on the Libertyville campus, with over 50 Lake County residents ranging from 10 to 99 years old in attendance across both sessions. Upon completion of the two-hour course, each person will receive a National Weather Service (NWS) Severe Weather Spotter Certificate.
The aim of the Severe Weather course is to train residents on what to do and not to do during severe weather. Topics included the basics of storm spotting, how to report severe weather, in addition to what to look for and what to report to the NWS when severe weather hits the County. The instructor also highlighted the important safety components to being a NWS Severe Weather Spotter volunteer, such as seeking shelter and reporting from their location only when it’s safe.
In-depth information about the full spectrum of extreme weather possible in our area, including tornadoes, thunderstorms, flash floods, dust storms, high winds and winter storms, was shared to prepare
the future Weather Spotters. Those who completed the course are now part of the NWS storm observing and reporting network.
“Participants learn the importance of what to look for when observing weather conditions and when to seek shelter and report information from a safe place, rather than ‘chasing’ after a storm,” said Dan Eder, Lake County Emergency Manager. “Over the years, reports from trained Severe Weather Spotters have saved countless lives during times of severe weather. The intelligence they provide to groups like the National Weather Services make a real difference to our community’s safety.”
This year’s courses were led by David Klechner, who holds a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology and is a specialist in aviation and airline weather forecasting. He has used his weather expertise to support the LCEMA for over two decades. Another Severe Weather Spotter course is being planned for 2025. The class is free and appropriate for all ages. If you’re interested in being notified about the 2025 Severe Weather Spotter Course, email lcema@lakecountyil.gov.
To learn more about preparing for severe weather visit www.lakecountyil.gov/ Weather.
MCCD events
Building a Rain Garden Monday, July 1, 7-8:30 p.m.., Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park.
Join Jen Oliver, District Landscape Architect, as she describes the process of building the rain garden at Lost Valley Visitor Center, including the design, materials, installation, and plants chosen. This program includes an indoor presentation followed by a short walk on a paved sidewalk. Ages 14+.
explore our conservation areas.
Ages 2-6.
First Friday Concert:
Discovery Days: Ants Friday, July 5, 10-11 a.m., Rush Creek Conservation Area, Harvard.
Enjoy a morning of fun, educational activities focused on our special theme of the day: the industrious ant! Games, lessons, and other hands-on experiences help participants
Noah Gabriel Band Friday, July 5, 7:30 p.m., Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, Ringwood. Join on the first Friday of each month for an evening of music under the oaks! July’s concert features the Noah Gabriel Band, whose sound is a blend of amiable roots-rock that pulls from the fiery blues of Stevie Ray Vaughn, BB King and wry folk witticisms a la Lucinda Williams and Ryan Adams.
For more information or to sign up for programs please visit the McHenry County Conservation District website at MCCDistrict.org.
County approves intergovernmental agreements toward 9-1-1 consolidation
Lake County has taken a giant step forward towards the consolidation of 9-1-1 and emergency dispatch services with the establishment of two new agencies after the County Board approved two intergovernmental agreements (IGAs) at its June 11 meeting.
The first IGA will establish LakeComm, of which Lake County will be one of the founding members, to serve as the consolidated Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) for the partnering agencies, municipalities and unincorporated areas of Lake County. A PSAP is a 9-1-1 call center responsible for answering calls to an emergency telephone number for law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services. It plays a critical role in ensuring that emergency calls are quickly and efficiently answered, and information routed to the appropriate response units, thereby enhanc-
ing public safety and reducing response times. “It is through this unprecedented collaboration between the county and our municipal partners that we are able to take another important step forward in the process that will reduce response times and ultimately save lives,” said Sandy Hart, Lake County Board Chair. “We will be able to provide the residents of Lake County and visitors with a faster, more coordinated emergency response system that they not only expect but deserve.”
The second IGA initiates the process to establish a Joint Emergency Telephone System Board (JETSB), of which Lake County will also be a founding member, with a number of local ETSBs. An ETSB receives 9-1-1 surcharge funds and is the oversight board responsible for managing the operational
aspects of the overall 9-1-1 system. The new Joint ETSB would then require final approval from the State of Illinois 9-1-1 Administrator.
The LakeComm IGA also establishes the requirement for a long-term lease for dedicated space for LakeComm in the new Regional Operations and Communications (ROC) Facility being constructed on Lake County’s Libertyville campus.
It’s anticipated the new LakeComm services will be operational by late summer or early fall of 2025 after the new ROC Facility is completed. Founding members for LakeComm at this time includes Lake County, the Village of Antioch, First Fire Protection District (FPD) of Antioch, Beach Park FPD, Countryside FPD, the Village of Fox Lake, Fox Lake FPD, Village of Gurnee, Greater Round Lake FPD, the Village
Multi-agency crisis outreach and support team receives grant, national recognition
Sheriff John D. Idleburg is proud to announce that the sheriff’s multi-agency Crisis Outreach and Support Team (COaST) received national recognition and a local grant recently.
COaST has been recognized with a 2024 Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties (NACo). This award honors innovative, effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents.
Each year, NACo’s Achievement Awards recognize outstanding programming in 18 categories aligned with the vast, comprehensive services counties provide. The categories include children and youth, criminal justice and public safety, libraries, management, information technology, health, civic engagement and more. Launched in 1970, the program is designed to celebrate innovation in county government.
The multi-agency component of COaST became operational in January of 2022 and consists of members from Gurnee Police Department, Lake Forest Police Department, Libertyville Police Department, Lincolnshire Police Department, Mundelein Police Department, Vernon Hills Police Department, and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. A police officer from one of these local agencies and a sheriff’s deputy from the sheriff’s office partner with a social worker, clinician, or peer specialist to respond to mental health related calls.
Since the inception of the multi-agency team, COaST responded to dozens of mental health calls in progress. This allowed trained professionals to deploy at the scene, spend as much time as necessary with the person in crisis, and allow the first-responding deputies/ police officers to return to emergency calls for service.
“The Achievement Awards recognize excellence in county government and effective public service,” said NACo
President Mary Jo McGuire. “This year’s winners have delivered results for our residents and demonstrated innovative efforts to strengthen our communities.”
Additionally, Illinois State Senator Adriane Johnson was able to secure a $250,000.00 operational grant for COaST. This grant was a line item in the Illinois FY25 budget that was passed during the legislative ‘Spring Session’ and signed by the Governor on June 5, 2024. The funds can be used for general operational expenses, staffing, capacity building, and equipment.
Sheriff John D. Idleburg said, “We are thrilled NACo recognized the innovation and importance of our multi-agency COaST program! Additionally, the funds secured by Senator Johnson will greatly improve our ability to aid those in mental crisis. Our COaST program was one of the first in the nation, and we are so incredibly proud of its success. We have been able to provide services to thousands of Lake County residents since the program’s inception.”
“I support the award-winning Lake County COaST program because it aligns with one of my top priorities: ensuring the safety of residents who are struggling with mental health issues that require intervention and treatment instead of punishment, “ said Adriane Johnson, State Senator of the 30th Legislative District. “Sheriff John Idleburg and his dynamic team, along with several police chiefs from Lake County proactively implemented the COaST program to provide training, resources and tools to properly and safely respond to calls involving mental health concerns. I will continue supporting effective and compassionate programs that prioritize people and safety.”
COaST is supported in part by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Safety and Justice Challenge, in partnership with the Livingroom Wellness Center.
of Island Lake, Lake Villa FPD, Village of Lake Zurich, Village of Mundelein, City of North Chicago, Village of Round Lake, Village of Round Lake Beach, Village of Round Lake Heights, Village of Round Lake Park, Village of Vernon Hills, Wauconda FPD and the City of Zion.
All governmental entitles in the county are eligible and welcome to join. Those that join after July 1 will need to be approved by a two-thirds vote of the LakeComm member board. However, the IGA states the Lake County Sheriff’s Office will be granted membership to LakeComm upon written request.
“As a board member who has seen this initiative slowly progress over the past seven years, I am excited we have moved to this next step of the process. Having personally experienced a call transfer delay during an emergent situa-
tion, I know we will be better equipped to provide faster, more coordinated emergency responses, which is critical to the safety of our residents, visitors and businesses,” said Linda Pedersen, Lake County Board Member for District 1.
For over a decade, regional 9-1-1 consolidation has been a top priority for Lake County and its municipal and agency partners. This initiative was spearheaded by Illinois Law (50 ILCS 750/15.4a), which mandates that any county with a population of at least 250,000 and more than one ETSB should consolidate ETSBs so that no 9-1-1 authority in the county serves a population of less than 25,000 residents. Since then, the State continues to support additional consolidations.
The IGAs follow the groundbreaking for the Regional Operations and Communications Facility and
the implementation earlier this year of a state-of-the-art computer software system by Lake County, the Lake County ETSB and local law enforcement and fire agencies. The new software has streamlined operations by consolidating more than 15 systems into a single, integrated package. This includes Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), records management and law enforcement reporting.
“Much work has been done by the County and its many partners to get to this point. Moving forward, we are committed to this effort to improve 9-1-1 services and increase public safety for all our residents, visitors and communities,” said J. Kevin Hunter, Lake County Board Member for District 5.
“We look forward to the next phases of this very complex 9-1-1 consolidation in Lake County.”
Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge conservation hero recognized, honored
Building a national wildlife refuge into the fabric of an existing community is an artform. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service would like to recognize the tireless efforts of Ed Collins as he has rallied his community to create and grow Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge in Illinois and Wisconsin for more than the past 20 years. Take a moment to learn about his contributions and the special recognition he received.
On June 11, Deputy Regional Director Chuck Traxler was honored to join the annual Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge Summer Gathering in Richmond, Illinois to present Collins with the Silver Eagle Award. This is our most prestigious external award and recognizes individuals from outside the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service who have made exceptional conservation achievements in the Midwest Region.
As director of land preservation and natural resources for the McHenry County Conservation District, Ed Collins has been devoted to growing a connection for people to their natural world. With a career that spans 38 years with the McHenry County Conservation District, Collins is responsible for restoration and land preservation efforts on
26,000 acres. He has led several remarkable projects including the re-meandering of Nippersink Creek in Glacial Park, the first mapping of oak loss in the region that helped to establish Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge and now, his significant role as part of the team that secured the 985-acre Tamarack Farms that is slated to become part of the refuge. Additionally, Collins teaches classes in Forensic Ecology and Ecological Spirituality, and currently serves as vice-chair of the Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge. Leaders from a wide array of partner organizations were also on hand to recognize Collins, including folks from The Conservation Fund, Openlands, Illinois Audubon Society, McHenry County Community Foundation, Nippersink Watershed Associa-
tion, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, McHenry County Conservation District, Ducks Unlimited, as well as U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service retirees Cathy Nigg and John Rogner. Everyone shared words of thanks for all that Collins has done, and continues to do in and around the refuge. “Ed did all of this with an eye to the future. He had a vision of community engagement and tourism that would bring new opportunities to this densely populated area,” noted Deputy Regional Director Chuck Traxler.
Recognized in 2012 by the U.S. Department of Interior as a recipient of the Partners in Conservation Award for his role in helping establish the refuge, Collins has been focused on this endeavor for a long time.
White House hosts National Offices of Violence Prevention Network
Recently Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart joined other members of the National Offices of Violence Prevention Network (NOVPN) by participating in an event hosted by the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention focused on community violence intervention and collaborative work to build an ecosystem of Offices of Violence Prevention (OVPs) to keep our communities safe.
OVPs, also known as offices of neighborhood safety and other names, are premised on the notion that community safety should not be the exclusive province of policing and the criminal justice system. Charged with addressing public safety through the lens of public health, OVPs typically focus on the application of community-based strategies to intervene in or prevent violence for those at highest risk of engaging in or being the victim of gun violence.
Lake County’s OVP is called the Gun Violence Prevention Initiative (“GVPI”) and was founded in 2022. The GVPI within the State’s Attorney’s Office has secured over $4 millions in local, state, and federal grant dollars to fund policies and personnel that coordinate Lake County’s response to a rise in gun violence that started in 2017. The GVPI has funded street outreach workers, victim support specialists, therapists, case managers, and community education events – all
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Noting that Collins would rather shine a light on the true midwestern landscape that’s been shaped by ‘fire and ice’ that is rapidly disappearing than to focus the attention on himself, Refuge Manager Cassie Skaggs said, “This award is
directed at addressing the root causes of gun violence.
Numerous local and state governments have recently established OVPs in response to nationwide surges in violence during the COVID-19 pandemic. In line with this momentum, in September 2023, President Biden established the firstever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention to reduce gun violence and implement and expand upon key executive and legislative action which has been taken to save lives. This White House gathering of NOVPN members from more than 40 jurisdictions represents an exciting next step in President Biden’s commitment to ending gun violence in our country.
State’s Attorney Rinehart stated, “This comprehensive approach to ending gun violence is the way forward. This approach has been successful in the neighborhoods where it has been implemented, and it is working in the most impacted areas of Lake County, Illinois. This collection of national leaders is committed to saving lives – now, and decades into the future.”
“The NOVPN team is excited to have Network members from across the country join us at the White House in this first of its kind discussion in our nation’s history,” said NOVPN Director Shantay Jackson. “These leaders are at the forefront of their local jurisdictions, working tirelessly
but a moment in time to recognize a person who listened to the land and in turn, hopes that we all continue to do so into the future. Ed is truly a remarkable person and is most deserved of this achievement.”
Hackmatack National Wild-
with their communities and partner agencies in the reduction of gun violence and, as we head into the summer months, this conversation is necessary, timely, and invaluable.”
About the NOVPN
The National Offices of Violence Prevention Network (NOVPN) is a first-of-its-kind learning community with the goal of significantly increasing the expertise and effectiveness of offices of violence prevention and other similar agencies. The NOVPN hosts virtual and in-person convenings; provides trainings on violence reduction practices; coordinates cross-OVP learning exchanges; offers leadership development; and builds OVP capacity in data collection, fund development, and media relations. The NOVPN also supports the creation of new OVPs in jurisdictions interested in developing such agencies, and the Network partners with the White House’s National Office of Gun Violence Prevention to facilitate access to OVPs. Originally established in 2021 with a membership of 21 established OVPs, the Network has grown to nearly 60 members, including multiple state-level offices of violence prevention and local OVPs launched with NOVPN support. To learn more, visit https://ovpnetwork.org/. The NOVPN is a strategic initiative of the National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform (NICJR). To learn more about NICJR, visit https://nicjr.org/.
life Refuge was established on November 6, 2012, with the donation of a 12-acre conservation easement. The easement was purchased for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service by Openlands through a donation from the Friends of Hackmatack and
the McHenry County Conservation Foundation.
Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge staff have been working to connect the dots of conserved land in southeast Wisconsin and northeast Illinois. We are working to
Lake County nationally recognized for digital equity and mental health initiatives
Lake County has received two Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) for its innovative efforts to address digital equity and provide critical outreach to individuals in a mental health crisis. On an annual basis, NACo recognizes outstanding county government programs across 18 categories covering a wide spectrum of responsibilities.
“Lake County strives to be a national leader and it is a tremendous honor to be recognized for innovation on issues like digital equity and mental health that counties across the country are challenged with on a daily basis,” said Lake County Board Chair Sandy Hart.
The first award recognized the County’s Digital Growth Initiative (DGI). The DGI was created in 2023 to better understand the current state of high-speed internet service and digital equity in Lake County and then implement solutions for improvement. More than 19,000 households, accounting for eight percent of the county, do not have any type of broadband subscription, including those available through a cell phone plan.
After thorough community engagement and data analysis, the County adopted the Broadband and Digital Equity Action Plan in December 2023 to assess the current state of broadband and digital equity and create a strategic framework to guide the County’s future direction. This plan identifies internet availability, affordability and digital inclusion for all as its goals and provides recommendations to address those gaps.
“We are committed to addressing digital equity for everyone,” said Jennifer Clark, Chair of the Special Committee on Broadband and Lake County Board Member District 15. “It is exciting to see our Broadband and Digital Equity Plan in action. Our goal is for as many residents as possible to have access to affordable high-speed internet
connect refuge lands and conservation easements with lands conserved by local county and state agencies, as well as private organizations. Working with our partners, the refuge will ultimately improve or restore more than 11,000 acres
along with the appropriate devices and training they need to safely use the internet.”
The Crisis Outreach and Support Team (COaST) was also recognized for its effort to ensure the safety of residents who struggle with mental health issues. This multi-agency team became operational in January 2022. When a mental health related call is received, a social worker, clinician or peer specialist will partner with a police officer or a Sheriff’s deputy from one of the team agencies to respond.
The team consists of members from the Gurnee, Lake Forest, Libertyville, Lincolnshire, Mundelein and Vernon Hills police departments and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.
The COaST responds to dozens of mental health calls in progress. This allows trained professionals to deploy at the scene, spend as much time as necessary with the person in crisis and allows the first-responding deputies or police officers to return to emergency calls for service.
Sheriff John D. Idleburg said, “Through our innovative and collaborative approach to interacting with those experiencing mental health crisis, we are able to take our time and offer resources and services rather than taking immediate action. This has undoubtedly resulted in a more positive and helpful experience for the person in crisis, while likely reducing the use of force in these situations.
Over the past six years, our entire response strategy to calls of this nature has evolved, and I am immensely proud of my staff and our partners for all of their efforts.”
Recently, State Senator Adriane Johnson was able to secure a $250,000 operational grant to fund COaST. The team also is supported financially, in part, by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Safety and Justice Challenge, in partnership with the Livingroom Wellness Center.
of drained wetland basins, historic prairie and oak forest habitats. Habitat is restored by purchasing lands and easements from willing sellers, helping landowners restore their land and working with partners.
SuBMITTeD PHOTO Hi-Liter/MCN
Guilty verdicts for fatal 2021 shooting in Gurnee Mills parking lot
On June 14, a jury trial concluded in the Lake County Courthouse with guilty verdicts on all counts related to a 2021 fatal shooting in the Gurnee Mills parking lot.
Joey Gonzalez, 27, was convicted of Second-Degree Murder, a class 1 felony, two counts of Aggravated Battery with a Firearm, a class x felony, three counts of Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm, a class 1 felony, and one count of Unlawful Use of a Weapon by a felon, a class 2 felony
After the verdict, Lake County State’s Attorney stated, “Shooters will be held responsible for the death and destruction they are causing. Our trial teams are securing justice in the courtroom, and survivors are hopefully receiving some solace by these verdicts. Our victim specialists will continue to support them through their careful, trauma-informed practices.”
The jury trial began on June 10, lasting five days. The jury heard from many witnesses, including law enforcement, forensic experts, and eyewitnesses who were present in the parking lot the day of the shooting.
On November 27, 2021, Gurnee Police Department officers and the Lake County Major Crimes Task Force responded to a report of shots fired at the Gurnee Mills parking lot. When officers arrived, they located Jonathan Denicolas, 26, being aided by a good Samaritan. Denicolas was transported to a hospital where he succumbed his injuries.
Law enforcement officers eventually learned through phone records, eyewitnesses, and surveillance video that Denicolas had arranged to meet with Gonzalez the day of the shooting. Gonzalez was eventually arrested and taken into custody in August 2022 by U.S. Marshals Service Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force.
Gonzalez decided to take the stand in his own defense and claimed self-defense even though there was no evidence of Denicolas shooting at Gonzalez, and no weapons were recovered from the area of where the shooting took place.
Before the trial, Gonzalez was being held in the Lake County Jail on a $10 million bond. (This cash bond was set by a judge in 2022, before the effective date of bail reform which now prevents individuals charged with murder from posting bond if a judge so decides at the beginning of the case.)
After the guilty verdict, Judge Lombardo revoked Gonzalez’s ability to post bond.
Gonzalez is facing a maximum of at least 30 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections. His next court hearing is scheduled for August 2.
Sheriff’s reports
Two teens die in watercraft crash
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Illinois Conservation Police are investigating an evening jet ski crash that resulted in the deaths of two children.
On June 18, at approximately 5:15 p.m. the Lake County Sheriff’s Marine Unit and Patrol Division responded to a jet ski versus boat crash that occurred on Lake Marie. A 16-year-old girl of Lake Forest, California and a 13-year-old girl of Long Grove were on the jet ski, and both were killed in the crash.
Preliminary investigation shows the 16-year-old was operating the Yamaha jet ski and the 13-year-old was the passenger. They were traveling in a northerly direction near the channel to Grass Lake, just north of the Elime Road Peninsula. At the same time a Sea Ray Cabin Cruiser, being operated by a 55-year-old man of Antioch was traveling westbound in the same area, approaching the Gass Lake Channel.
Witnesses reported the jet ski was traveling at a high rate of speed, directly toward the Sea Ray. The operator of the Sea Ray was unable to avoid a collision, and the two watercrafts struck each other. Both occupants of the jet ski, who were wearing life vests, were knocked unconscious and thrown into the water. There were a total of four occupants on the Sea Ray and they immediately pulled the girls from the water, called 911, and rendered aid. One of the girls was transported to the shore by the operator of the Sea Ray and the other girl was transported by the operator of another passing boat.
The girls were transported to Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville and both were pronounced deceased after arriving. Nobody else was injured as a result of the crash.
The Lake County Coroner’s Office scheduled an autopsy for Thursday morning.
Lake County Sheriff’s arrest bulletin
The Lake County Sheriff’s Dept. reported the following arrests in Lake County. Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
May 9
Gregory C. Shelby, 54, Olympia Fields, was cited for a warrant obtained: continuing financial crimes enterprise, aggravated identity theft, financial institution fraud and forgery; Adam Thatcher, 41, Mundelein, was cited for domestic
battery;
Mary V. Jude, 40, Ingleside, was cited for a warrant arrest: domestic battery; Nathalia M. Aguilera, 27, Arlington Heights, was cited for DUI – alcohol, and no insurance;
The crash remains under investigation by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit and Illinois Conservation Police
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to the families of the girls and others involved in this tragic boat crash.
Man arrested for child pornography and grooming
In April of 2024, the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children provided the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office with information received from the Internet Crimes Against Children Data System pertaining to the online enticement of children for sexual acts.
Upon receipt of this information, the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation. The investigation led to the identification of the offender, Nicholas S. Kachiroubas, and his involvement in possession of child sexual abuse material (child pornography) and grooming.
On Tuesday, June 18, members of the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division served a search warrant in the 200 block of S. Dole Ave, Crystal Lake and Nicholas S. Kachiroubas was taken into custody as a result of the arrest warrant.
Kachiroubas was taken to the McHenry County Jail and was charged with the following: Possession of Child Pornography (Class 2 felony) and Grooming (Class 4 felony).
The charges against this individual are merely allegations against them. All defendants are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Coroner’s
update: Human arm found on beach linked to
Milwaukee case through DNA
On the morning of June 18, the Lake County Coroner’s Office was notified by the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division that DNA testing has confirmed that the arm found on a beach in Waukegan was that of 19-year-old Sade Robinson, of Milwaukee. Sade was reported missing in Milwaukee on April 2, 2024, and has since been identified as a victim in a case that occurred in Milwaukee County’s jurisdiction.
The Lake County Coroner’s Office has worked closely with the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office since the discovery of the arm on Saturday, May 11, 2024. Sade’s family was notified of the DNA confirmation by the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday.
Lake County Coroner Jennifer Banek said, “On behalf of the Lake County Coroner’s Office, I want to express our sincere condolences to Sade’s family and friends who continue to endure this tragic loss.”
Original Release:
On Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 8:36 p.m., The Lake County Coroner’s Office was called by the Waukegan Police Department and requested to a scene at the Waukegan Municipal Beach, 201 East Sea Horse Drive, where a person who was walking on the beach had found what appeared to be a human arm.
The Lake County Coroner’s Office responded to the scene and confirmed that in fact what was found was a right human arm, mostly intact.
The arm, believed to be from a female, was taken to the Lake County Coroner’s Office where, on May 13, it was examined by the Lake County Coroner’s Forensic Pathologist. Further examination by a Forensic Anthropologist has been scheduled and will likely confirm the victim’s gender and
Alexander G. Bowser, 30, Round Lake Beach, was cited for DUI – alcohol; David M. Meadows, 65, Cary, was cited for disorderly conduct;
May 10
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stands, school projects – people at work and at play. We are interested!
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photos
age range. The Coroner’s Office is working to identify the victim currently. The Coroner’s Office is working closely with a police department in a neighboring state on an on-going investigation in that jurisdiction. DNA samples will be submitted to that department’s crime laboratory to aid in identification and in regard to their investigation.
Sheriff’s Marine Unit rescues two teens on Lake Michigan
Within a week of announcing the resuming of Lake Michigan patrols, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit saved the lives of two teen paddle boarders who went adrift.
On June 19, at approximately 1:30 p.m. the Sheriff’s Marine Unit Lake Michigan Watercraft was on patrol. Marine unit deputies were on patrol, approximately one mile from the Lake Bluff shoreline, when they observed two 16-yearolds, a girl from Lake Bluff and a boy from Wauconda, both paddle boarding, floating outward toward the center of Lake Michigan. The teens were not able to overcome the wind and current, which continued pulling them away from the shoreline. The teens were not wearing life vests and did not have their phones or any other type of communication or emergency devices. Marine unit deputies pulled them from the lake and were able to also retrieve their paddle boards. The teens were uninjured and safely reunited with family at the Lake Forest Marina.
Sheriff John D. Idleburg added, “This is what this Sheriff’s Lake Michigan Patrol Boat is all about, saving lives. I am so grateful we were able to replace our previous Lake Michigan boat that was retired in 2018. This allowed our marine unit deputies to save two young lives within a week of resuming patrols.”
Charles C. Graham, 43, Gurnee, was cited for a warrant arrest: violating an order or protection; Junior L. Jefferson, 58, no permanent address, was cited for a warrant arrest: theft; Alex Mathews, 28, Fox Lake, was cited for fleeing to elude, and driving while license revoked; May 11
and on preventative and microchipped. While walk-ins are welcome, adoptions are by appointments only to ensure we have the staff available to help adopters. For information and/ or to complete an online application, please visit www.saveapetil.org/adopt.
Matthew D. Dadej, 22, Island Lake, was cited for domestic battery; May 12
Jazett S. Gipson, 19, North Chicago, was cited for unlawful possession of cannabis; Omar Fernandez, 34, Gurnee, was cited for criminal damage to property.
May 13
Christine M. Slayton, 57, Beach Park, was cited for DUI – drugs and no insurance; Jason A. Threats-Gayden, 23, Beach Park, was cited for DUI – alcohol, fleeing to elude, improper transportation of cannabis, and open transportation of alcohol; May 14
Dominique N. Brown, 38, Chicago, was cited for aggravated assault, and violating a no contact order; Trinate N. Jacobs, 21, Park City, was cited for driving while license suspended; Dikendre S. Cobb, 22, North Chicago, was cited for a warrant arrest: obstructing a peace officer and a new charge of obstructing a peace officer;
Robert E. Price, 34, North Chicago, was cited for disorderly conduct, and criminal damage to property;
Joey Gonzalez
• Arrests
(Continued from page 6)
Kevin N. Labrizzi, 31, Harbard, was cited for driving while license suspended, no insurance and cellular phone violation;
Brian Linder, 62, no permanent address, was cited for a warrant arrest: retail theft and a new charge: attempt unlawful possession of a controlled substance, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia;
Austin H. Linville, 26, Grayslake, was cited for domestic battery, endangering the life of a child, unlawful use of a weapon, criminal damage to property, disorder-
ly conduct, and driving while license suspended; May 15
Cory Cosgrave, 44, Waukegan, was cited for theft of mislaid property; Fredy A. Palencia Porras, 30, Waukegan, was cited for DUI – alcohol; May 16
Shania M. Thompson, 28, Kenosha, WI, was cited for a warrant arrest: forgery (Kenosha County, WI); Nathan L. Kamaryt, 19, Barrington, was cited for DUI – alcohol; Mischawn D. Billups, 29, Round Lake Beach, was cited
for driving while license revoked; Oscar Gomez-Rojas, 31, Waukegan, was cited driving while license suspended, and suspended registration; Kotryna Sedereviviute, 34, Mt. Horeb, WI, was cited for attempt possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and an arrest warrant: battery; May 17
Mario Galavan, Jr., 27, North Chicago, ws cited for no driver’s license, and leaving the scene of an accident; Jose I. Pineda Carrillo, 34, Beach Park, was cited for dis-
orderly conduct, resisting a peace officer and interference with emergency communications;
Demonta Williams, 48, Waukegan, was cited for DUI – alcohol and driving while license revoked; Juan M. Mendia-Delgado, 48, Zion, was cited for DUI –alcohol and no insurance; Matthew J. Dec, 38, Cary, was cited for DUI – drugs, resisting arrest and improper transportation of cannabis; May 18
Ashiley N. Howze, 28, Waukegan, was cited for a warrant arrest: DUI (Cook
County); Ariel E. Abrams, 36, Zion, was cited for aggravated speeding (68 mph in 35 mph zone);
May 19
Yana Shnayder, 35, Mundelein, was cited for disorderly conduct and resisting a peace officer.
May 20
David M. Shell, 44, Fox Lake, was cited for driving while license suspended; Leandro J. Basilio-Martinez, 47, Wheeling, was cited for DUI – drugs, open transportation of alcohol and no insurance;
May 21
Wade Smith, 22, Great Lakes, was cited for criminal damage to government property; Juvenile, was cited for distribution of child pornography; Darrell K. Wellington Francis, 20, Waukegan, was cited for no driver’s license; Giancarlo Ocampo-Carvajal, 22, Waukegan, was cited for unlawful sale of tobacco to person under 21; Shalimar Clavell, 24, Round Lake Beach, was cited for aggravated speeding (71 mph in 40 mph zone).
Automobiles
1985 TOYOTA SUPRA Original owner, California car, 172,000 miles. evansville $8,000 OBO. 608-322-2483
Boats
15’ SAIL BOAT with 20’ sail. Wetsailer Chrysler w/trailer. $900 608-365-6936.
1987 BAYLINER CAPRI COM-
PleTe BOATInG PACKAGe!
Bowrider ShoreStation lift with electric power boat trailer. (lake Mills, Wisconsin) Call john at 815-988-6798.
2000 SUPRA LEGACY, Indmar inboard, very low hours, always garaged or lift kept, elkhorn. $10,995. (262) 949-6997.
2012 MIRROCRAFT BOAT
Model 1760 Aggressor, excellent cond. 115 evinrude e-TeCH Motor, just serviced at east Troy Marine. less than 200 hrs. on motor. $17,750 w/many extras. 262-325-0706 or 262-325-0705.
Campers and RVs
1994 WINNEBAGO WARRIOR 22’ V8 454 engine, 97,200 miles. newer tires, new battery, new sub floor and flooring. Rooftop A/C works great. Rust free, runs good and ready for travel! Some updates have been done to the interior, but still needs some minor finishing. Asking $11,500. located near Rockford. Call 815520-0997.
2000 NOMAD 5THWHEEL
Slideout, new tires, new roof, clean, $4,000 OBO 262-3740051.
Motorcycles
1974 HD FL Very good original condition. $14,995. OBO Txt 262-914-6486.
CLASSIFIED IN-COLUMN ADS cannot be credited or refunded after the ad has been placed. Ads canceled before deadline will be removed from the paper as a service to our customers, but no credit or refund will be issued to your account.
DISCLAIMER NOTICE This publication does not knowingly accept fraudulent or deceptive advertising. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all ads, especially those asking for money in advance.
Burial Needs
7 CEMETERY PLOTS Willing to sell as a group or individually. located at Roselawn Memory Gardens 3045 WI-67, lake Geneva, WI 53147. This is a private sale. Contact Randy, the seller at randy@slpublishers.com.
Wanted to Buy
ALL BEER-SODA-GAS-OIL SIGNS All related items-TAP HAnDleS-BeeR CAnS. 262825-0932 Will Travel CASH PAID.
Parts & Accessories
TRAIn THe BeST CAnDIDATe. 3 DAyS PeR WeeK. 18-26 HOuRS. MOn/ TueS/WeD. CAll TO InQuIRe 262-725-7704.
PAINTERS/LABORERS-FULL TIME looking for painters w/3yrs experience. Openings for apprentice/trainee labor painters. Good starting wages. Inquire today! 262-249-0466
Part Time Help Wanted
BUSY MAILROOM NEEDS WORKERS Monday-Wednesday, 9am-6pm. Casual work environment. $10. per hour. Call to inquire 262-725-7704
Lyons Garage Sales
Other Real Estate
PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HuD toll-free at 1-900-669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. eQuAl HOuSInG OP-
