Zachary L. Orr CHIEF DEPUTY zorr@pikecountysd.org

David E. Greenwood SHERIFF dgreenwood@pikecountysd.org

PIKE COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT   204 East Adams, Pittsfield IL, 62363 * 217-285-5011 * Fax 217-285-4496 PRESS RELEASE

PRESS RELEASE

On November 12^th, 2024, at 1:45 P.M., Chief Deputy Zack Orr, while working for the Village of Hull, received a complaint of home repair fraud. 

The victim reported she paid a substantial amount of money to a subject for repairs on the victim’s house.  The victim reported she paid the subject in July of 2024.  The victim reported that none of the work had been completed, and the contractor had not reimbursed her. 

Chief Deputy Orr conducted a criminal investigation, which led to the issuance and execution of court-authorized search warrants for financial information.

Chief Deputy Orr applied for and received an arrest warrant for aggravated home repair fraud. 

On November 27^th, 2024, Gary L. Haynes, age 47, of Hannibal, Missouri, was arrested by the Hannibal Police Department on a Pike County, Illinois, arrest warrant. 

Haynes was arrested and released pending a court appearance. 

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. 

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PRESS RELEASE

Robert Niffen

On November 28^th, 2023, Chief Deputy Zack Orr conducted a criminal investigation into a Violation of the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act.

Subsequent to the investigation, Robert Wayne Niffen, age 64, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois was arrested on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender.  Niffen was on federal probation for sex offender registration violations during his arrest.  Niffen was cited and released per the SAFE-T Act.

On August 15^th, 2024, a bench trial was held where Niffen was convicted by the Honorable Judge J. Frank McCartney.

On October 24^th, 2024, Judge McCartney sentenced Niffen to five (5) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

The Pittsfield Police Department and Illinois State Police assisted with the investigation.

 

John Crull

On December 14^th, 2023, Chief Deputy Zack Orr conducted a criminal investigation into a Violation of the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act.

Subsequent to the investigation, John A. Crull, age 39, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender.  Crull was cited and released per the SAFE-T Act.

On August 20^th, 2024, Crull pled guilty to failure to register as a sex offender and was sentenced to five (5) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

 

Chris Ellinger

On December 24^th, 2023, Chief Deputy Zack Orr conducted a criminal investigation into a Violation of the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act.

Subsequent to the investigation, Christopher A. Ellinger, age 45, of Griggsville, Illinois was charged with failure to register as a sex offender.

Ellinger’s next court appearance is set for October 29^th, 2024.

Ellinger is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 

 

Patrick Cantwell

On May 23^rd, 2024, Chief Deputy Zack Orr conducted a criminal investigation into a Violation of the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act.

Subsequent to the investigation, Patrick T.D. Cantwell, age 29, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois was charged with failure to register as a sex offender.

Cantwell’s next court appearance is set for December 3^rd, 2024.

Cantwell is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 

Jeremy Vogel

On August 1^st, 2024, Chief Deputy Zack Orr conducted a criminal investigation into a Violation of the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act.

Subsequent to the investigation, Jeremy B. Vogel, age 21, was arrested on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender.  Vogel was cited and released per the SAFE-T Act.

Vogel’s next court appearance is set for November 19^th, 2024.

Vogel is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 

Sheriff David Greenwood said his agency will continue to rigorously investigate all violations of the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On October 4^th, 2024, Justin Lee Howard Richards-Olby, age 22, of Wellington, Kansas, pled guilty in Pike County Circuit Court to the following charges:

Count 1:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child (Class 1 felony).

Count 2:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child (Class 1 felony).

Count 3:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child (Class 1 felony).

Count 4:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child (Class 1 felony).

Count 5:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child (Class 1 felony).

Count 6:         Child Pornography (Class X felony).

Count 7:         Child Pornography (Class X felony).

Richards-Olby was sentenced to ten (10) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections on count(s) 1-6.  Richards-Olby was sentenced to fifteen (15) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections on count seven (7).  The sentences are to be served consecutively for a total of twenty-five (25) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.  Richards was also sentenced to lifetime sex offender registration and fines.

The case began on February 29^th, 2024, when the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a complaint of indecent solicitation of a child, sexual exploitation of a child, grooming, and child pornography.

The parents of a child under the age of thirteen (13) years old discovered their child had been communicating with an adult male for several months through various social media websites.

The case was assigned to Chief Deputy Zack Orr, a member of the Illinois Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.

Chief Deputy Orr took over the messaging between the victim and the suspect.  Chief Deputy Orr successfully elicited identifying information from the suspect, who still believed he was messaging the victim.

Multiple search warrants were obtained and executed to identify the suspect.  Upon receiving information obtained from the search warrants, Chief Deputy Orr deconflicted the information through the ICAC database and observed numerous open cases involving the suspect for possession and dissemination of child pornography in the State of Kansas.

Chief Deputy Orr identified the suspect and obtained an arrest warrant in Pike County, Illinois.

The investigation led Chief Deputy Orr and Deputy Zach Hardin to Wellington, Sumner County, Kansas.

Chief Deputy Orr met with members of the Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, the US Department of Homeland Security, and the Wellington, KS, Police Department, where law enforcement officials tracked the suspect to an apartment located in the 800 block of Woodlawn, Wellington, Kansas.

On March 13^th, 2024, at 9:15 A.M., law enforcement officials took Justin Lee Howard Richards-Olby, age 22, of Wellington, Kansas, into custody without incident.  Richards-Olby was transported to the Sumner County Jail.

Chief Deputy Orr continued the investigation and executed a search warrant at the apartment, where additional electronic devices were located and seized.

Upon waiving extradition, Richards-Olby was transported to the Pike County Jail, where he remains lodged.

Richards Olby is charged with the following offenses in Pike County, Illinois:

Count 1:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child, a class 1 felony.

Count 2:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child, a class 1 felony.

Count 3:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child, a class 1 felony.

Count 4:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child, a class 1 felony.

Count 5:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child, a class 1 felony.

Count 6:         Child Pornography, a class X felony.

Count 7:         Child Pornography, a class X felony.

Chief Deputy Orr said, “As a parent, it is very easy to become complacent with your child and their use of social media.  Parents must check their children’s cellular phones and electronics to see what they are doing.  This case was difficult to work on based on what the suspect said he was going to do to the victim. The suspect, on more than one occasion, told the victim he was going to “kidnap” her and “force impregnation.”  The messages sent from the suspect to the victim were some of the most disturbing, horrific, and vile messages I have seen in my twenty-five (25) years of law enforcement.”

The following entities assisted with the investigation:

• Children’s Advocacy Center, Pittsfield, Illinois,
• Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office,
• Kansas ICAC Task Force,
• Wellington, KS, Police Department,
• Sumner County, KS, Sheriff’s Office,
• US Department of Homeland Security,
• Wichita, KS, Police Department,
• Jacksonville Police Department,
• Pike County State’s Attorney’s Office

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Press Release

On August 10^th, 2024, at 7:06 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a residence in the 1000 block of Mortimer Street, Barry, Illinois regarding a stabbing incident.  It was reported the victim had left the scene and was being transported by a private vehicle to Illini Community Hospital.

Subsequent to an investigation, law enforcement officials arrested Joshua W. Logsdon, age 37, of Barry, Illinois for the offenses of aggravated battery and armed violence.

Logsdon was arrested without incident, transported, and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On August 1^st, 2024, at 11:10 A.M., Chief Deputy Zack Orr of the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a sex offender compliance check in the 200 block of North Wall Street, Griggsville, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Jeremy B. Vogel, age 21, of Griggsville, Illinois, was arrested for failure to register as a sex offender.

Vogel was cited and released pending a court appearance.

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PRESS RELEASE

July 19, 2024

On 07-15-24 The Pike County Sheriff’s Department began receiving calls from citizens in the Barry, Kinderhook and New Canton areas, reporting their vehicles have either been, burglarized, damaged or stolen.

As of 07-19-24 we have had at least sixteen cars that were burglarized and, in the process, some were damaged, with four of them being moved or stolen.

Other communities outside of Pike County have experienced these same types of incidents and are believed to be tied together.

The investigations are ongoing.

If you have any information regarding any of these incidents, call the Pike County Sheriff’s Department at 217-285-5011 or Pike County Crime Stoppers at 217-285-1500. If the information you provide leads to the arrests of the individuals involved, you can receive a cash reward and you can remain anonymous.

I have given this advice many times. Lock your cars and do not leave your keys or valuables in them.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

July 19, 2024

On 07-18-24 at 5:49 AM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a 911 call reporting a house fire on 150^th Avenue in Pleasant Hill Township. The caller said it appears the fire has been burning for a while.

Pleasant Hill and Spring Creek Fire Departments were dispatched along with assistance from the Pittsfield Fire Department.

During firefighting efforts, the body of 77-year-old Sondra Heimer of Pleasant Hill was discovered at the scene.

On 07-19-24, the body of Ms. Heimer was transported to Bloomington for an autopsy.

The incident is still being investigated by the Pike County Sheriff/Coroner with the investigation into the cause of the fire by the Illinois State Fire Marshall’s Office.

Also assisting at the scene was Pike County EMS.

Sheriff/Coroner David Greenwood

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July 15, 2024

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department has been awarded $16,534 in grant funding by Norfolk Southern Corporation to support its mission in fighting drug abuse in Pike County. The funds will be used for equipping our new canine vehicle.

“This funding will have an immediate impact on the work we do in combatting the negative effects illegal drugs have on our communities,” said Sheriff David Greenwood. We’re thankful to Norfolk Southern for investing in Pike County and for supporting our mission.”

The grant is part of two community programs launched by Norfolk Southern in 2023: the Safety First Grant Program, which seeks to advance safety organizations and initiatives, and the Thriving Communities Grant Program, which aims to promote economic opportunity, support vibrant community life, and provide equal access to basic necessities. Award recipients are selected annually from across the railroad’s 22-state network.

“With a history spanning more than 200 years across thousands of communities, Norfolk Southern is proud to be a part of the towns, cities, and states we serve,” said Kristin Wong, Director Corporate Giving at Norfolk Southern. “Norfolk Southern employees live, work, and play in every community across our network, and we are committed to seeing those communities thrive.”

Since 1827, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) and its predecessor companies have safely moved the goods and materials that drive the U.S. economy. Today, it operates a customer-centric and operations-driven freight transportation network. Committed to furthering sustainability, Norfolk Southern helps its customers avoid approximately 15 million tons of yearly carbon emissions by shipping via rail. Its dedicated team members deliver more than 7 million carloads annually, from agriculture to consumer goods, and is the largest rail shipper of auto products and metals in North America. Norfolk Southern also has the most extensive intermodal network in the eastern U.S., serving a majority of the country’s population and manufacturing base, with connections to every major container port on the Atlantic coast as well as the Gulf of Mexico and Great Lakes. Learn more by visiting www.NorfolkSouthern.com.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 28^th, 2024, at 1:56 P.M., the West Central Illinois Task Force and Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Lonnie D. Todaro, age 54, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois, on a Pike County Warrant for:

• Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.
• Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

The investigation began in January of 2024 when law enforcement officials received information regarding Todaro and the distribution of controlled substances.

Todaro was arrested and released pending a court appearance.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 21^st, 2024, John R. Campbell, age 39, was sentenced to four (4) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender.

Campbell was arrested on May 17^th, 2023, by Chief Deputy Zack Orr, who indicated he initiated a criminal investigation regarding a sex offender who was unlawfully residing at a residence located in the 800 block of Front Street, Barry, Pike County, Illinois.

On March 21^st, 2024, a bench trial was held in Pike County, Illinois, where the Honorable Judge J. Frank McCartney found Campbell guilty of failure to register as a sex offender.

During the initial investigation, Campbell’s wife, Amanda B. Campbell, age 36, of Quincy, Illinois was arrested on a charge of obstructing justice.

On June 13^th, 2023, Amanda pled guilty to a charge of obstructing justice and was sentenced to probation and fines.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 14^th, 2024, at 10:30 A.M., law enforcement officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Illinois State Police, and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office executed a court-authorized search warrant in the 200 block of South Main Street, Baylis, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, Christopher A. Coleman, age 40, of Baylis, Illinois was arrested on ten (10) counts of child pornography.

Coleman is accused of possessing videos, via an electronic device, of children under the age of thirteen (13) years old engaged in various sexual acts.  Coleman is currently lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The criminal investigation began in April when information was received regarding the possession of child pornography.  The investigation was forwarded to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department for further investigation.

Chief Deputy Zack Orr, who led the criminal investigation, said numerous search warrants were obtained and executed which helped law enforcement successfully identify, locate, and arrest Coleman.

Chief Deputy Zack Orr is assigned to the Office of Illinois Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.  The task force is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces, representing 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.  The task force is dedicated to investigating, prosecuting, and developing effective responses to internet crimes against children.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

04-29-24

On 04-28-24 at 7:21 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a single unit vehicle crash. The location of the crash was near 37737 Perry Fishhook Road in Fairmount Township.

The driver of the vehicle, 33-year-old Kickstart McCollum from Perry Illinois was transported by ambulance to Illini Community Hospital where she was later pronounced dead.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

Assisting at the scene was the North-Pike fire Department, Baylis Fire Department, Griggsville Fire Department, Pike County EMS, Air Evac and Illinois Rural Electric.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

On March 26^th, 2024, Brandon L. Frame, age 33, of Barry, pled guilty to two (2) counts of child pornography and was sentenced to three (3) years, followed by an additional consecutive three (3) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.  Brandon will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from the Illinois Department of Corrections.

The case started in February of 2024 when Chief Deputy Zack Orr received information from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) of a suspect potentially being in possession of child pornography.

On February 15^th, 2024, Chief Deputy Zack Orr, along with Illinois State Police Special Agent Jordan Gerard, met with Brandon at his residence located in Barry, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Brandon was found to be in possession of several photographs and videos of children under the age of thirteen (13) years old engaged in various sexual acts.

The case was prosecuted by the Pike County State’s Attorney’s Office.

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PRESS RELEASE

On March 26^th, 2024, Roy Irick, age 70, of Hull, Illinois, pled guilty to the presence of a child sex offender in a school zone and was sentenced to six (6) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

The investigation began on August 17^th, 2023, when the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was notified by a local school district that a child sex offender was present during a school function.

The case was forwarded to Chief Deputy Zack Orr who completed an investigation and said that Irick attended a school function without prior authorization from the school district’s administration.

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PRESS RELEASE

On February 29^th, 2024, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a complaint of indecent solicitation of a child, sexual exploitation of a child, grooming, and child pornography.

The parents of a child under the age of thirteen (13) years old discovered their child had been communicating with an adult male for several months through various social media websites.

The case was assigned to Chief Deputy Zack Orr, a member of the Illinois Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.

Chief Deputy Orr took over the messaging between the victim and the suspect.  Chief Deputy Orr was successfully able to elicit identifying information from the suspect, who still believed he was messaging the victim.

Multiple search warrants were obtained and executed to identify the suspect.  Upon receiving information obtained from the search warrants, Chief Deputy Orr deconflicted the information through the ICAC database and observed numerous open cases involving the suspect for possession and dissemination of child pornography in the State of Kansas.

Chief Deputy Orr identified the suspect and obtained an arrest warrant for him in Pike County, Illinois.

The investigation led Chief Deputy Orr and Deputy Zach Hardin to Wellington, Sumner County, Kansas.

Chief Deputy Orr met with members of the Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, the US Department of Homeland Security, and the Wellington, KS, Police Department, where law enforcement officials tracked the suspect to an apartment located in the 800 block of Woodlawn, Wellington, Kansas.

On March 13^th, 2024, at 9:15 A.M., law enforcement officials took Justin Lee Howard Richards-Olby, age 22, of Wellington, Kansas into custody without incident.  Richards-Olby was transported to the Sumner County Jail.

Chief Deputy Orr continued the investigation and executed a search warrant at the apartment, where additional electronic devices were located and seized.

Upon waiving extradition, Richards-Olby was transported to the Pike County Jail, where he remains lodged.

Richards Olby is charged with the following offenses in Pike County, Illinois:

Count 1:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child, a class 1 felony.

Count 2:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child, a class 1 felony.

Count 3:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child, a class 1 felony.

Count 4:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child, a class 1 felony.

Count 5:         Indecent Solicitation of a Child, a class 1 felony.

Count 6:         Child Pornography, a class X felony.

Count 7:         Child Pornography, a class X felony.

Based on a forensic examination of electronic devices, additional charges are pending.

Chief Deputy Orr said, “As a parent, it is very easy to become complacent with your child and their use of social media.  Parents must check their children’s cellular phones and electronics to see what they are doing.  This case was difficult to work on based on what the suspect said he was going to do to the victim. The suspect, on more than one occasion, told the victim he was going to “kidnap” her and “force impregnation.”  The messages sent from the suspect to the victim were some of the most disturbing, horrific, and vile messages I have seen in my twenty-five (25) years of law enforcement.”

The following entities assisted with the investigation:

• Children’s Advocacy Center, Pittsfield, Illinois,
• Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office,
• Kansas ICAC Task Force,
• Wellington, KS, Police Department,
• Sumner County, KS, Sheriff’s Office,
• US Department of Homeland Security,
• Wichita, KS, Police Department

All suspect(s) are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 

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Press Release

March 12, 2024

Pike County Sheriff/Coroner David Greenwood and Pittsfield Police Chief Michael Starman release the following information pertaining to a death investigation.

On January 21, 2024, at approximately 7:03 AM, Pittsfield Police officers received a report of a missing juvenile. The missing person was identified as seventeen-year-old Landon Hettinger, of Pittsfield.

Officers began searching for the missing juvenile. At approximately 9:01 AM, Pittsfield Police Officers and the Pike County Sheriff/Coroner were dispatched to Illini Community Hospital for a report of a deceased male juvenile. The deceased male juvenile was identified as Landon Hettinger.

The Pike County Sheriff/Coroner and Pittsfield Police Department conducted a joint investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.  As a result of the investigation Pike County State’s Attorney Walker Filbert has charged forty-five-year-old Dennis Shannon of Pittsfield with the following charges:

• Felony Contributing to the Criminal Delinquency of a Minor
• Felony Give/Sell Alcohol to a Minor Resulting in Death
• Involuntary Manslaughter

Mr. Shannon is currently on pre-trial release for these offenses.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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February 19, 2024

ILLINOIS SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES SCHOLARSHIPS

The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association announces that it will be awarding over $58,000 in college scholarships throughout the State of Illinois to students wishing to pursue higher education during the 2024-2025 academic year. The scholarships are to be applied to tuition, books, and fees only. The student must be enrolled full-time at a certified institution of higher learning within the State of Illinois, full-time. Online learning is acceptable.

Pike County Sheriff David Greenwood will be awarding one scholarship in the amount of $500.00.

There will be no restriction on any applicant by reason of race, age, creed, color, sex or national origin. The only limitations are as follows:

· Applicants must be permanent Illinois residents

· Scholarships must be utilized at institutions of higher learning within the State of Illinois

· Students must be enrolled as a full-time student during the 2024-2025 school year (excluding summer session).

Applications are now available at the Pike County Sheriff’s office or on the ISA Website https://www.ilsheriff.org/youth-2/. Students must complete the application, answer the essay question, and return all documentation to the Pike County Sheriff’s Office by March 15, 2024 (must be postmarked by this date). A directory of Sheriffs offices is available on the ISA website at https://www.ilsheriff.org/sheriffs-directory/. For more information, please contact your local Sheriff’s office, Illinois Sheriffs’ Association, high school advising center, or college financial aid office.

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Press Release

At the beginning of February 2024, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was notified by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) of a possible child pornography suspect.

Chief Deputy Zack Orr, who is a member of the Illinois Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, was assigned to the investigation.

On February 15^th, 2024, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Illinois State Police concluded the investigation, which resulted in the arrest of Brandon L. Frame, age 33, of Barry, Illinois, on ten (10) counts of child pornography.

Brandon is alleged to have possessed videos of children under the age of thirteen (13) years old engaged in various sexual acts.

Brandon was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

Chief Deputy Orr indicated since becoming a member of the Illinois Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the number of arrests for child pornography in Pike County, Illinois is on the rise.  I am not sure the average citizen knows the amount of child pornography circulating on the internet, Chief Deputy Orr said.  Luckily, we have another ICAC task force member, Illinois State Police Special Agent Jordan Gerard, who is assigned to Pike County and the surrounding areas, to help combat child pornography in our area, Chief Deputy Orr said.

Sheriff David Greenwood said it takes dedicated people to investigate these types of cases where large amounts of extremely disturbing evidence must be painstakingly reviewed, processed, and compiled into a report that will allow charges to be brought. I commend Chief Deputy Orr on his dedication to these investigations and his desire to curtail this type of criminal behavior that harms children every day. With the appointment of Special Agent Gerard to the ICAC Task Force and his dedication to our community, it will only increase our ability as law enforcement to bring individuals that engage in this behavior to justice.

The Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program (ICAC) helps state and local law enforcement agencies develop an effective response to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and Internet crimes against Children.

 

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Press Release

01-18-24

On 01-17-24, at 1:01 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a crash on 340^th Ave approximately a half mile south of County Highway Two in New Salem Township.  The crash involved a train and a semi-tractor and trailer carrying feed.  The initial investigation indicates the semi-tractor and trailer being operated by 22-year-old Blake Pulis of Barry Illinois was traveling southbound on 340^th Avenue, which intersects the railroad tracks.  As the semi-tractor crossed the tracks, it was struck on the passenger side by a train traveling eastbound.  The semi-tractor and train came to a stop approximately 500 yards east of the initial point of contact.  Pulis was ejected from the truck upon impact.  Pulis was airlifted to a regional hospital.

The cause of this crash is still under investigation by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and the Norfolk Southern Police.

Assisting at the scene was the Baylis Fire Department, Pike County EMS, Norfolk Southern Railroad and Air Evac.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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Press Release

12-19-23

On December 12^th,2023 a Pike County Deputy along with a Pittsfield Police Officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a stolen vehicle that was reported stolen from Chrisman Illinois. The vehicle fled from the scene and crashed a short time later in a backyard off West Lowry Street in Pittsfield. The driver of the vehicle, 49-year-old Dennis R. Kraushaar of Jerseyville Illinois fled the scene on foot and was apprehended a short distance from the crash by Pike County Deputies.  Kraushaar was arrested on the following charges:

• Possession of a Stolen Vehicle
• Aggravated Fleeing to Elude
• Driving While License is Suspended
• Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Deliver
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Forgery
• Criminal Damage to Property
• Arrest Warrant out of St. Clair County Illinois
• Arrest Warrant out of Macoupin County Illinois
• Arrest Warrant out of McDonough County Illinois

Kraushaar is presently housed at the Pike County Jail awaiting prosecution.

All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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Press Release

On December 14^th, 2023, Chief Deputy Zack Orr initiated a criminal investigation regarding a failure to register as a sex offender complaint which was conducted in Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the investigation, John A. Crull, age 38, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender (Class 2 felony).

As is now required under the provisions of the new House Bill 3653, known as the SAFE-T Act; Crull was cited and released pending a court appearance.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty.

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Scam Press Release

I received information today regarding another Illinois department that recently received reports of scammers using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to defraud families. The victim receives a call from who they think is their loved one with someone else getting on the phone and demanding money. The victim believes it is their loved one because they hear their loved one’s voice. If this happens, immediately hang up and call your loved one at the known phone number you have for them. Do not call the number that the call came in on.

If you believe you have been a victim of a scam such as this, please call the Pike County Sheriff’s Department (217-285-5011) or your local law enforcement agency to report it.

Here is a good article from the Michigan Attorney General regarding AI, what it is and how to handle these types of incidents without becoming a victim.

https://www.michigan.gov/ag/consumer-protection/consumer-alerts/consumer-alerts/scams/artificial-intelligence-and-scams#:~:text=Even%20though%20AI%20provides%20many,tailor%20the%20scam%20to%20you.

 

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Press Release

On November 28^th, 2023, Chief Deputy Zack Orr arrested Robert Wayne Niffen, age 63, of Pittsfield, Illinois on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender and a State of Texas Department of Corrections Parole Violation Warrant.

Niffen was located at a residence located in the 300 block of Landess Terrace, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois.

Niffen, who is also on Federal Probation, was arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by the Pittsfield Police Department and Illinois State Police.

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PRESS RELEASE

November 28, 2023

On November 24th, at 5:47 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a single unit vehicle crash on County Highway 7, north of Nebo.

The driver of the vehicle (36-year-old Michael Knight of Pittsfield) was pronounced dead at the scene.

Assisting at the scene was the Spring Creek Fire Department, Pike County EMS and the Illinois State Police.

An investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.

 

Sheriff David Greenwood

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Press Release

On November 7^th, 2023, at 9:12 A.M., law enforcement officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Pittsfield Police Department, Illinois State Police, Illinois Conservation Police, and the Attorney General’s Office executed a court-authorized search warrant in the 400 block of Sycamore Street, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, Andrew C. Snow, age 18, of Pittsfield, Illinois was arrested on charges of unlawful dissemination of child pornography and unlawful possession of child pornography.

Snow is accused of possessing and disseminating videos, via an electronic device, of children under the age of thirteen (13) years old engaged in various sex acts.  Snow is currently lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The criminal investigation began in September when information was received regarding the possession and dissemination of child pornography.  The investigation was forwarded to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department for further investigation.

Chief Deputy Zack Orr, who led the criminal investigation, said numerous search warrants were obtained and executed which helped law enforcement successfully identify, locate, and arrest Snow.

Chief Deputy Orr said additional criminal charges are anticipated.

Chief Deputy Zack Orr said he is assigned to the Office of Illinois Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.  The task force is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces, representing 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.  The task force is dedicated to investigating, prosecuting, and developing effective responses to internet crimes against children.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

October 30^th, 2023

On 10-29-23, The Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a complaint of a theft from the Barry Travel Plaza advising someone had broken into and took the money from an ATM/Cash Changing Machine in the gaming area.

Following an investigation headed by Deputy Steve Lowry of the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, 34-year-old Christopher T. McCorkle from Clifton Illinois was arrested and taken into custody at the Ice House Motel in Barry. Also arrested was 27-year-old Echo L. Brewington of Quincy Illinois.

McCorkle was charged with Burglary, Theft and Possession of a Stolen Vehicle. McCorkle was also wanted on a no bond arrest warrant for Burglary out of Kankakee County. McCorkle is being housed at the Pike County Jail awaiting a Pre-Sentence Hearing.

McCorkle is a suspect in the same types of crimes in multiple jurisdictions in Illinois.

Brewington was charged with Burglary and Theft and is being housed at the Pike County Jail awaiting a Pre-Sentence Hearing.

The investigation is still ongoing and additional charges are expected.

All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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October 12, 2023

On 10-12-23 at 8:20 AM, Pike County 911 received a report of a vehicle crash that occurred on State Highway 107, south of Perry Illinois. The Illinois State Police are investigating the crash.

The Pike County Coroner was dispatched to the scene where 17-year-old Zachary D. Thomas of Griggsville Illinois was pronounced deceased.

David Greenwood

Sheriff/Coroner

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PRESS RELEASE

October 10, 2023

On 10-08-23 at 9:39 PM, Pike County 911 received a report of a multi-vehicle crash that occurred on I-72 westbound at milepost 12. The caller indicated it was a head-on collision. First responders were dispatched to the reported location, including the Illinois State Police who is handling the investigation of the vehicle crash.

The Pike County Coroner was dispatched to the scene where 43-year-old Amanda E. Harrison of Laddonia Missouri and 59-year-old Angela J. Wood from Payson Illinois were pronounced dead at the scene. Both decedents were passengers in two separate vehicles.

For further information regarding the crash, I refer you to the Illinois State Police.

David Greenwood

Sheriff/Coroner

 

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PRESS RELEASE

October 2^nd, 20203

On 10-01-23 Deputies from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department were taking action based on complaints to myself regarding safety of citizens that sit along County Highway Four and State Highway 106 in Barry. If you are not familiar with the event, it is where vehicles leaving the Barry Car Show spin their tires at this intersection while onlookers encourage and cheer them on. The last couple years, at least one vehicle lost control and almost hit an onlooker on the side of the road and another lost control and almost caused a head-on collision with a vehicle traveling southbound that came off the interstate. The complaints were that “it is just a matter of time before something bad happens”.

Several years ago, deputies took action and issued citations for these obvious IVC violations, but for some reason the citations were torn up and the drivers were not charged. This discouraged officers and deputies from taking part in the event and risking their safety since there was no backing from the Barry Officials.

Yesterday, I ordered my deputies to issue citations for anyone violating obvious IVC violations during the time we were there. This was not an order or request from the mayor. Mayor Rennecker just contacted me last week and was trying to come up with a solution for the safety of everyone involved, which included a police presence at this location. The problem lies with having a police presence, observing vehicles blatantly violating the law in such an unsafe manner and someone getting seriously hurt. “Who do you think is going to get the blame for that? The law enforcement for not doing anything about it”. It seems to be that the culture now is shifting blame to law enforcement for everything. “We are damned if you do and damned if you don’t.”

It was completely shameful the way some of the citizens of Barry treated law enforcement. In over twenty-four years of being an officer here in Pike County, I have not observed such disrespect for law enforcement. Deputies had items thrown at them. One of my patrol vehicles was damaged as it was surrounded by hundreds of people, kicking it, denting it, scraping it, liquids thrown on it as a deputy who had just taken someone into custody and was trying to leave the scene. After attempts to get subjects to move, the deputy would get into his car and the subjects would get back out in front of it, keeping him from leaving. Pepper spray was eventually deployed to clear the crowd so the deputy could leave. My vehicle was repeatedly spit on at this event.

Out of all the people at this event, only one stood out, tried to assist and spoke up for law enforcement and from what I was told he was quickly shouted down. He is a respected member of the Barry Fire Department. NO ONE else came to the assistance of myself or my deputies. People I have known for decades were yelling at law enforcement, calling them “fucking assholes” “fucking pigs”, “get the fuck out of here”, etc. Children that were there with parents were allowed to do the same, flipping us off. Again, shameful.

I have heard social media is a buzz with one of my deputies being immediately fired “stripped of his badge” and that “it was a fact”. This is not true. My deputies acted valiantly during this melee with two of them being in fear of their lives. Along with this, snippets of social media have been sent to me with some of the things that are being posted. I have not seen anything from any local official backing law enforcement trying to protect their city’s citizens and that my friend is also shameful. I have however received a couple private messages of support for my deputies.

It also must be said as vehicles were coming down Rodgers Street to the intersection, I would tell them if they spin their tires, they will get a ticket. All of the drivers from the car show indicated they want nothing to do with this event and thanked us for being there. Many people thanked us and said they were tired of this event. The problem does not lie with the drivers from the car show, it is mostly the onlookers.

The song “Try That in a Small Town” really came to mind yesterday. So many people we were dealing with yesterday wear that song as a badge or song of honor, daring people to come to their town to disrupt or riot. Unfortunately, it is not people coming to a small town that is going to cause the disruptions or riots, those people are already there.

Video of the event is being reviewed and criminal charges for individuals involved in damaging the patrol cars, Obstructing Justice, Mob Action and Aggravated Battery of a Peace Officer will be presented to the State’s Attorney’s office with a request to file charges on these individuals. There are an awful lot of people that can expect charges.

I pray this is a low spot for the city of Barry, not a downward spiral and the local officials will finally do something about this situation from repeating itself in the future.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

September 30, 2023

On September 30th, at 8:50 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a single unit vehicle crash on State Highway 106, east of Barry Illinois.

The vehicle was traveling eastbound on State Highway 106 when it left the roadway and rolled over.

The driver of the vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene. The passenger was transported to Illini Hospital in Pittsfield by Pike County EMS with minor injuries.

The name of the decedent is not being released at this time.

Assisting at the scene was the Barry Fire Department, Pike County EMS and the Illinois State Police.

 

UPDATE –

The name of the decedent from the vehicle crash on State Highway 106, east of Barry is 25 year old Makenzy McLaughlin of Bowling Green Missouri.

 

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

On September 9^th, 2023, at 1:39 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a residence located in the 100 block of East Pittsfield Street, Milton, Pike County, Illinois in reference to a home invasion and stabbing incident.

Upon arrival, law enforcement officials conducted several interviews where conflicting versions of events were provided.  The reporting party and victim indicated he was at his residence when he opened his door to let his dog out when a masked individual punched him in the face.  The physical altercation continued inside of the residence.    At one point, the victim disclosed he was being choked by the masked individual.  The victim said he grabbed a knife and stabbed the masked intruder who eventually left the residence.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a criminal investigation and submitted their findings to the Pike County State’s Attorney’s Office for review.

On September 18^th, 2023, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Bryar A. DeJaynes, age 19, of Milton, Illinois on a warrant for the offense of aggravated battery.

DeJaynes was arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The incident remains under investigation.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On September 13^th, 2023, at 10:15 A.M., law enforcement officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Illinois State Police, and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence located in the 300 block of Chestnut Street, Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, Adrian Cienega-Davila, age 39, of Griggsville, Illinois, was arrested on charges of unlawful dissemination of child pornography as well as unlawful possession of child pornography.

Cienega-Davila is accused of possessing and disseminating videos, via an electronic device, of children under the age of 13 engaged in various sexual acts. Cienega-Davila is currently lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The investigation began in August when information was received regarding the possession and dissemination of child pornography. The investigation was forwarded to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department for further investigation.

Chief Deputy Zack Orr, who led the criminal investigation, said numerous search warrants were obtained and executed which helped law enforcement successfully identify, locate and arrest Cienega-Davila.

Chief Deputy Orr said additional criminal charges are anticipated.

Chief Deputy Zack Orr said the Pike County Sheriff’s Department is part of the Office of Illinois Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.  The task force is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces, representing 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. It is dedicated to investigating, prosecuting, and developing effective responses to internet crimes against children.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On August 30^th, 2023, at 10:59 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Pittsfield Police Department, and West Central Illinois Task Force executed a court-authorized search warrant in the 200 block of Chestnut Street, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, methamphetamine was located and seized.

Arrested as a result of the search warrant was Tiffany L Higgins, age 34, and Earl P. Black, age 40, both of Pittsfield, Illinois on charges of:

Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine

Higgins and Black were arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On August 30^th, 2023, at 8:30 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and West Central Illinois Task Force executed a court-authorized search warrant in the 300 block of South Bickford Street, Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, over ten (10) grams of methamphetamine, methamphetamine related drug paraphernalia, and hypodermic syringes were located and seized.

Arrested as a result of the search warrant was Sydney P. Little, age 35, of Griggsville, Illinois on charges of:

Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Deliver

Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine

Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Unlawful Possession of Hypodermic Syringes

Little was arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On August 25^th, 2023, at 9:49 P.M., law enforcement officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and West Central Illinois Drug Task Force executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence in the 200 block of Commercial Street, New Salem, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, law enforcement officials seized suspected psilocybin mushrooms, methamphetamine related drug paraphernalia, syringes, a digital scale, 19.7 grams of methamphetamine, and United States Currency.

Arrested as a result of the investigation are:

Joshua W. Taylor, age 37, of New Salem, Illinois on the following charges:

Unlawful Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine over 15 Grams

Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine over 15 Grams

Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance

Unlawful Possession of Hypodermic Syringes

Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Jordan A. Clendenny, age 28, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested on the following charge:

Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine

Both Taylor and Clendenny were arrested without incident and are lodged in the Pike County Jail.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On August 23^rd, 2023, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services responded to a child abuse complaint at a local school district.  School District employees observed bruising on a child and reported their concerns to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.

Chief Deputy Zack Orr, who led the criminal investigation, said following a thorough investigation, Katie M. Smith, age 27, of Barry, Illinois was arrested on August 28^th, 2023, at 11:40 A.M., on the charges of:

Aggravated Battery to a Child

Unlawful Restraint

Smith was arrested without incident and is lodged in the Pike County Jail.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty by a court law.

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PRESS RELEASE

 

On August 17^th, 2023, at 6:34 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed a court authorized search warrant at a residence located in the 200 block of N. Walnut Street, New Canton, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, methamphetamine, methamphetamine related drug paraphernalia, and ammunition was located and seized.

A second court-authorized search warrant was executed on a machine shed located on 220^th Street, New Canton, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of the second search warrant, methamphetamine and methamphetamine related drug paraphernalia was located and seized.

Arrested as a result of the search warrant was Richard Dylan Bernard, age 28, of New Canton, Illinois on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Firearms Ammunition by a Felon,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Bernard was arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The Illinois State Police and Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conversation Police assisted with the investigation.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On August 18^th, 2023, at 10:08 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Roy Lee Irick, age 70, of Hull, Illinois on a charge of Presence of a Child Sex Offender in a School.

The investigation was led by Chief Deputy Zack Orr who indicated a Pike County, Illinois school district contacted the Pike County Sheriff’s Department after discovering a child sex offender, identified as Roy Irick, attended a children’s open house event at the school without authorization from the school administration.

Chief Deputy Orr applauded the school district for looking into the matter and contacting law enforcement regarding the incident.

Irick was arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

Chief Deputy Orr reminded citizens they can go to the Illinois State Police Sex Offender Website to check for registered sex offenders in their area.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On July 19^th, 2023, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department announced the arrest of James B. Knight, age 57, of Elko, Nevada, formerly of Pleasant Hill, Illinois, on an original arrest warrant for seven (7) counts of unlawful possession of child pornography.

The investigation began on January 27^th, 2021, when authorities were notified of Knight being in possession of child pornography.  Law enforcement authorities recovered forty-seven (47) images of child pornography.

The case was investigated by Chief Deputy Zack Orr who indicated that Knight moved away from Pleasant Hill, Illinois in the summer of 2019.  Chief Deputy Orr said the case continued and a warrant was issued for Knight.

Chief Deputy Orr said he was notified that Knight had been arrested on the Pike County, Illinois warrant on or about July 19^th, 2023, in Elko County, Nevada.

Knight was extradited from Nevada to Illinois.

Knight remains lodged in the Pike County Jail on $100,000.00 bond.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On July 11^th, 2023, at 10:33 P.M., Deputy Ryan Rouse was dispatched to a traffic hazard on State Highway 106 west of 345^th Street, Pike County, Illinois.

Upon arrival, it was discovered that a motorcyclist had run out of fuel.  Upon further investigation, the driver of the motorcycle, Hannah N. Smith, age 22, of Hannibal, Missouri was found to have a revoked driver’s license as well as a Marion County, Missouri, felony warrant.

Smith was taken into custody and methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located.

Smith was transported to the Pike County Jail and charged with the following offenses:

• Driving While License Revoked,
• Violation of Classification,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

July 10, 2023

The name of the decedent from the motorcycle crash on State Highway 100, south of Pearl Illinois was 71-year-old, John M. Roos from Jerseyville Illinois.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

July 9, 2023

On July 9, 2023, at 3:59 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a single unit motorcycle crash on State Highway 100, approximately 2 miles south of Pearl.

The motorcycle was traveling northbound and struck a deer that ran into its path.

The operator of the motorcycle was pronounced dead at the scene.

The name of the decedent is not being released at this time pending notification.

Assisting at the scene was the Spring Creek Fire Department and Pike County EMS.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 27^th, 2023, at 4:27 P.M., Chief Deputy Zack Orr, conducted a traffic stop in the 300 block of Walnut Street, Rockport, Pike County, Illinois on a silver 2007 Chevrolet Silverado.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Gregory D. Williams, age 53, of Winchester, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Felony Driving While License Revoked (10-14 past convictions),
• Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle,
• Wanted on Warrant-Sangamon County, Illinois,
• Wanted on Warrant-Morgan County, Illinois,
• Wanted on Warrant-Jefferson County, Illinois,
• Wanted on Warrant-McDonough County, Illinois.

Williams was taken into custody without incident and is lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 20^th, 2023, Patrick N. Butler, age 38, of Auburn, Illinois was sentenced to eight (8) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections, restitution, and fines for his involvement in a string of zero-turn lawn mowers thefts from a local farm implement dealer in Pike County, Illinois.

The case began on October 11^th, 2022, when the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was contacted by a local farm implement dealer and advised of the theft of multiple zero-turn lawn mowers.

A six-week criminal investigation ensued, which led to the apprehension of Butler in Callaway County, Missouri.

During Butler’s arrest in Callaway County, Missouri, Butler was found to be in possession of a stolen camper, stolen truck, burglary tools, and methamphetamine.

The investigation was led by Chief Deputy Zack Orr who reviewed hours of surveillance videos, interviewed multiple witnesses, executed numerous search warrants, retrieved data, and followed up with other law enforcement agencies.

The criminal investigation led to criminal charges in Illinois, Missouri, and Iowa.

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 17^th, 2023, at 1:14 P.M., Deputy Skyler Lambeth, conducted a traffic stop on a 2008 Chrysler passenger car on State Highway 107 near 335^th Ave, Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, a passenger, Stacy N. Tobias, age 33, of Rockport, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Adult-Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle by a Passenger.

Stacy was arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 14^th, 2023, the Pittsfield Police Department requested the assistance of the Pike County Sheriff’s Department regarding an on-going criminal investigation.

At 11:47 A.M., Chief Deputy Zack Orr and Pittsfield Assistant Chief of Police Jennifer Thompson conducted a traffic stop on Bennett Street, New Salem, Pike County, Illinois on a multi-colored 2004 Chevrolet SUV regarding the on-going criminal investigation.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Dakota L. Henry, age 23, of New Salem, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• DUI-Any Amount of Drug,
• Failure to Register as a Sex Offender,
• Endangering the Life or Health of a Child (2 counts).

Henry was arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

June 13, 2023

On 06-11-23 at 5:28 PM the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a report of a stolen vehicle from the 600 block of Rogers Street in Barry.

On 06-12-23 at 4:16 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a report of another vehicle that was stolen from the 1200 block of Pratt St in Barry.

On 06-12-23 both vehicles were recovered from Hannibal Missouri.

Following an investigation, 36-year-old Joshua M. Perkins from Hannibal Missouri was arrested by the Hannibal Police Department for Possession of a Stolen Vehicle.

Perkins is being held in the Marion County Jail in Missouri awaiting extradition to Illinois.

Sheriff Greenwood was quick to commend Deputy Skyler Lambeth and Sergeant Matt Frazier for their investigation into these thefts, which led to the quick apprehension of Perkins and the recovery of the stolen vehicles.

The Hannibal Police Department assisted in the investigation and was integral in the recovery an apprehension.

The investigation is still ongoing into these incidents and others that may lead to more arrests. If you happen to have a Ring doorbell type camera or a surveillance system that may have recorded anything that may seem suspicious and can assist in these investigations, please contact the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

It is nice to know we live in a small community and enjoy that neighborly, small-town atmosphere, but unfortunately it is a different time we live in. Always remember to lock the doors of your vehicles and never leave the keys or valuables inside your vehicles.

All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 6^th, 2023, at 2:30 P.M., Chief Deputy Zack Orr, conducted a traffic stop in the 1000 block of West Washington Street, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois, on a white 2001 Chevrolet truck.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Brian Keith Hamm, age 56, of Chambersburg, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine Less than Five (5) Grams,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• DUI (Any Amount of Drug),
• Driving While License Suspended,
• Improper Use of Registration,
• Unlawful Possession of Adult Use Cannabis in MV (Driver)

Brian was arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The Pittsfield Police Department assisted with the investigation.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 26^th, 2023, at 11:58 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a residence in the 400 block of South Pearl Street, Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois regarding a home invasion.

Subsequent to an investigation, it was determined that Trenton D. Slight, age 33, of Griggsville, Illinois unlawfully entered a residence and committed a battery on a person in the home.  Additionally, a person in the residence had an active order of protection against Trenton.

Trenton had fled the residence prior to law enforcement’s arrival.  Law enforcement was unable to locate Trenton that evening.

On May 30^th, 2023, Trenton turned himself in to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

Trenton was charged with the following offenses:

• Home Invasion,
• Battery,
• Violation of an Order of Protection,
• Criminal Trespass to Residence.

Slight was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 28^th, 2023, at 4:55 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on East Chestnutt Street at Federal Street, Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois on a black 2017 Ford.

Subsequent to an investigation, a passenger, Jacqueline K. Barnes, age 46, of Quincy, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Unlawful Possession of Hypodermic Syringes,
• Unlawful Transportation of Adult-Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle.

Barnes was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 26^th, 2023, at 3:15 P.M., Chief Deputy Zack Orr, conducted a traffic stop in the 100 block of Fifth Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois on a red 2015 Volkswagen passenger car.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Cheyenne M. Williams, age 34, of Pearl, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Obstructing Justice,
• Resisting Arrest,
• DUI (Any Amount of Drug),
• Aggravated DUI,
• Endangering the Health or Life of a Child,
• Driving While License Suspended,

The obstructing justice charge came from Cheyenne allegedly attempting to conceal and throw a methamphetamine smoking pipe during her arrest.

Cheyenne was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 17^th, 2023, at 8:54 P.M, Chief Deputy Zack Orr conducted a traffic stop in the 300 block of South Main Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois on a gray 2009 Toyota passenger car.

Subsequent to an investigation, Sarah J. Shawgo, age 42, of Havana, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• DUI (Drugs),
• Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle,
• Failure to Signal When Required.

Shawgo was arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 18^th, 2023, at 10:55 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, received a report from a school administrator at Pleasant Hill CUSD #3 that a high-school student possibly brought a firearm to school and said the firearm was in the suspect’s vehicle.  Several students alerted school officials about comments made on a social media platform.

Pleasant Hill CUSD #3 staff monitored the suspect and the suspect’s vehicle.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Pleasant Hill Police Department, Illinois State Police, Illinois Conservation Police, and the Pittsfield Police Department all responded and assisted with the investigation.

Subsequent to a search of the suspect’s vehicle, a loaded handgun, ammunition, alcohol, cannabis, and homemade body armor was located and seized by law enforcement.

Arrested as a result of the investigation is Zane A. Fesler, age 18, of Rockport, Illinois on the following charges:

• Unlawful Use of Weapon,
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm Without a FOID Card,
• Unlawful Possession of Firearms Ammunition Without a FOID Card,
• Unlawful Possession of Alcohol by a Minor,

Chief Deputy Zack Orr said the investigation is still in the very early stages. Law enforcement officials are still conducting interviews and following up on leads. At this time, there have been no known direct threats to any school, students or school personnel regarding this incident.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 17^th, 2023, at 8:20 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department initiated a criminal investigation regarding a sex offender who was unlawfully residing at a residence in the 800 block of Front Street, Barry, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, John R. Campbell, age, 37, of Quincy, Illinois was arrested on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender.

John’s wife, Amanda B. Campbell, age 36, of Quincy, Illinois was arrested on a charge of obstructing justice.

Both John and Amanda are lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The investigation began when Chief Deputy Zack Orr received information that John was residing in a camper on the property located in the 800 block of Front Street, Barry, Illinois.  According to Chief Deputy Orr, John had been registering his address as “homeless” with the Quincy Police Department.

When the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrived at the residence, Amanda, allegedly lied to law enforcement that John was not at the residence.  Upon further investigation, John was located hiding in the residence and was taken into custody without incident.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On April 30^th, 2023, at 7:57 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on West Washington Street, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Ryan M. Hill, age 40, of Nebo, Illinois was arrested on the following offenses:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine (15-100 Grams),
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm,
• Unlawful Possession of Ammunition,
• Driving Under the Influence (Any Amount of Drug).

Hill was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 3^rd, 2023, at 6:59 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on County Highway #10 near Pearl, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Jonathan L. Well, age 37, of Jacksonville, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Wanted on Warrant (Scott County, Illinois),
• Wanted on Warrant (Morgan County, Illinois),
• Wanted on Warrant (Montgomery, County, Illinois),
• Driving While License Revoked,
• Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance,
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm,
• Unlawful Possession of a Stolen Firearm,
• Other Traffic Related Offenses.

Deputies followed up with the investigation and executed a search warrant on a residence along State Highway 100, Pearl, Pike County, Illinois.

During the execution of said search warrant, several firearms (including stolen firearms), ammunition, methamphetamine were seized.

The incident remains under investigation and further charges are likely.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 2^nd, 2023, at 7:43 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department conducted a traffic stop on Bottom Street near Second Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the passenger, Barbara F. Henderson, age 42, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Unlawful Violation of an Order of Protection.

Henderson was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On April 21st, 2023, at 7:14 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department were dispatched to the Pleasant Hill Elementary School in reference to a student who was in possession of a handgun at a junior high dance.

Chief Deputy Zack Orr, who also serves as the Pleasant Hill Chief of Police, arrived within four (4) minutes of the initial call. Chief Deputy Orr met with Pleasant Hill School officials who had already locked down the portion of the school where the dance was taking place.

Information was developed as to the identity of the juvenile. Witnesses reported the juvenile was wearing a backpack which contained a handgun. It was discovered the juvenile had already left school property.

Chief Deputy Orr located the juvenile off school property. The juvenile was cooperative and provided Chief Deputy Orr with a CO2 gun. The juvenile never entered a school building, and no threats were made.

Chief Deputy Orr indicated, as a result of the investigation, no formal charges are pending.

Chief Deputy Orr commended the school district and law enforcement response on this incident. Additionally, Chief Deputy Orr praised students who immediately reported their concerns to school staff.

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PRESS RELEASE

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pittsfield Police Department announce the arrest of Karrie A. Waid, age 46, of Perry, Illinois on three (3) counts of felony retail theft as a result of a joint investigation.

The investigation began on or about March 12^th, 2023, when the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a retail theft complaint from a retail business in Griggsville, Illinois.

On March 20^th, 2023, the Pittsfield Police Department received two (2) retail theft complaints from a retail business in Pittsfield, Illinois.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pittsfield Police Department followed up with the retail theft investigation and applied for a search warrant.

On March 24^th, 2023, law enforcement officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pittsfield Police Department executed a court-authorized search warrant in the 400 block of E. South Street, Perry, Pike County, Illinois.

During the execution of said search warrant, property that had been reported stolen was recovered.

On March 24^th, 2023, Karrie was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On March 16^th, 2023, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on Jefferson Street near Memorial Street in Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois on a gray 1990 Ford truck.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Douglas M. Bolk, age 38, of Pittsfield, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Driving While License Revoked,
• Two (2) counts of Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance

Bolk was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On March 21^st, 2023, at 11:59 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a residence located in the 100 block of East Highway Street in Perry, Pike County, Illinois in reference to a burglary in progress.

Subsequent to an investigation, Landon K. Miller, age 25, of Perry, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Home Invasion,
• Two (2) counts of Violation of an Order of Protection,
• Aggravated Battery to a Police Officer,
• Resisting Arrest.

Miller was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On March 11^th, 2023, at 11:45 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on State Highway 106 near I-72, East Hannibal, Pike County, Illinois on a 1999 Jeep.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Billy J. Culp, age 39, of Hannibal, Missouri was arrested on charges of:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Hypodermic Syringes,
• Unlawful Possession of Adult Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle,
• Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle.

Culp was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On February 25^th, 2023, at 9:30 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on County Highway #2 near 420^th Lane, Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois on a black 2000 Chevrolet truck.

Subsequent to an investigation, a passenger, Gerald W. Kirgan, age 46, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Adult-Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle by Passenger.
• Illegal Transportation of Alcohol by a Passenger.

Kirgan was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On February 26^th, 2023, at 6:13 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a threat complaint in Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Gary L. Segebart, age 41, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois was arrested on charges of:

• Obstructing Justice.

Segebart was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On February 10^th, 2023, at 7:33 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to the 200 block of Walnut Street, New Canton, Pike County, Illinois in reference to a domestic disturbance. It was initially reported that a firearm was discharged during the incident.

Subsequent to an investigation, Joseph T. Young, age 34, of New Canton, Illinois was arrested on the following offenses:

• Aggravated Domestic Battery,
• Aggravated Battery,
• Domestic Battery (Prior Conviction),
• Unlawful Restraint,
• Obstructing Justice,
• Home Invasion.

During the investigation, it was determined an air rifle was discharged during the incident.

Also arrested because of the investigation was:

Deidre J. Higgins, age 36, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois on a Pike County, Illinois warrant for failure to appear.

Richard D. Bernard, age 28, of New Canton, Illinois on a Pike County, Illinois warrant for Petition for Revocation of Probation.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by the Pittsfield Police Department.

Young remains lodged in the Pike County Jail.  Young’s bond has been set at $250,000.00.

*All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On February 12^th, 2023, at 7:12 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a residence in the 1000 block of State Highway 106, Barry, Pike County, Illinois in reference to a robbery and theft incident.

The victim(s) reported two (2) men came to their house on February 11^th, 2023, where they made an agreement for an asphalting job.  The victim issued a check to the suspect(s).

The victim said the men returned on February 12^th, 2023, and requested that payment be made with cash.  The victim opened a safe at which time the suspect(s) stole a large amount of United States Currency, a Smith and Wesson handgun, watches, and other miscellaneous items from the safe.  The suspect(s) ran from the residence and got into a white Ford F-150 truck and fled.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department alerted several area law enforcement agencies to be on the lookout for the aforesaid vehicle.

Within minutes, the Hannibal Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a white Ford F-150.

Subsequent to an investigation, Robert Lee Ledbetter, age 59, of Hannibal, Missouri and Braden A. Harn, age 20, of Hannibal, Missouri were arrested and charged with the following offenses:

• Residential Burglary,
• Financial Exploitation of the Elderly,
• Robbery,
• Theft ($10,000-$100,000),
• Unlawful Possession of a Stolen Firearm,

Both Ledbetter and Harn are lodged in the Marion County, Missouri, Jail pending extradition to the State of Illinois.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by the Pittsfield Police Department, Hannibal Police Department, and Illinois State Police.

The incident remains under investigation and further charges are forthcoming.

The suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On February 3^rd, 2023, at 11:35 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a disturbance in the 200 block of Blue Street, Milton, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Chad A. Wooldridge, age 36, of Pearl, Illinois was arrested on a charge of Aggravated Domestic Battery.

Wooldridge was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On February 4^th, 2023, at 11:17 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on York Street in Kinderhook, Pike County, Illinois on a blue 2018 Buick Enclave.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Christopher A. Gunder, age 42, of Pittsfield, Illinois was arrested on charges of aggravated DUI, felony driving while license revoked, and leaving the scene of an accident.

Gunder was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On February 3^rd, 2023, at 1:53 P.M., a Deputy Sheriff for the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, while working for the Village of Hull, conducted a traffic stop on a blue 2008 Mercury SUV on State Highway 106 in Hull, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Caryann L. Sinclair, age 32, of Quincy, Illinois was arrested on a charge of driving while license suspended.  A passenger, Jeffery R. Dietle, age 32, of Hannibal, Missouri was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine less than five (5) grams and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sinclair was cited and released pending a court appearance.

Dietle was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On February 1^st, 2023, at 7:13 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a rural area located between Nebo, Illinois and Pearl, Illinois in reference to a suspicious vehicle left in a field.

Upon arrival, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department discovered the vehicle had been reported stolen out of Alton, Illinois on January 31^st, 2023.

Within three (3) hours, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department located the suspect at a residence in Nebo, Illinois.

The suspect is identified as a thirteen (13) year old juvenile.  The juvenile was taken into custody and charged with unlawful possession of a stolen motor vehicle and no valid driver’s license.

The juvenile is being detained pending a court appearance.

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PRESS RELEASE

On January 13^th, 2023, Chief Deputy Zack Orr of the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Scott E. Bricking, age 51, of Nebo, Illinois on the following offenses:

• Violation of the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act,
• Obstructing Justice,
• Filing a False Police Report

The investigation began on January 9^th, 2023, when Bricking came to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department to report his involvement in a crime.  The Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted an investigation into the crime that Bricking had reported and found no evidence supporting the crime that had occurred.

On January 13^th, 2023, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a follow-up interview with Bricking.  During this interview, Bricking admitted to lying about the crime which he reported.  Additional information was obtained from Bricking regarding a violation of the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act.

Bricking was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail on the aforesaid charges.

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January 11, 2023

As your Sheriff, I wanted to give citizens of Pike County an update on the recent passage of HB 5471, also known as the Protect Illinois Communities Act.

As your duly elected Sheriff my job and my office are sworn, in fact, to protect the citizens of Pike County.  This is a job and responsibility that I take with the utmost seriousness.

Part of my duties that I accepted upon being sworn into office was to protect the rights provided to all of us, in the Constitution.  One of those enumerated rights is the right of the people to keep and bear arms provided under the 2^nd amendment.

The right to keep and bear arms for defense of life, liberty and property is regarded as an inalienable right by the people.

I, among many others, believe that HB 5471 is a clear violation of the 2^nd Amendment to the US Constitution.

Therefore, as the custodian of the jail and chief law enforcement official for Pike County, that neither myself nor my office will be checking to ensure that lawful gun owners register their weapons with the State, nor will we be arresting or housing law abiding individuals that have been arrested solely with non-compliance of this Act.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

On December 14^th, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was contacted by a local banking facility regarding an employee theft of an undisclosed amount of money.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department, led by Chief Deputy Zack Orr, began a criminal investigation.

On January 6^th, 2023, at 4:44 P.M., Jamie L. Obert, age 38, of Liberty, Illinois was arrested in rural Adams County, Illinois on a Pike County warrant for the original  offense of theft over $10,000.00.

Obert was arrested and transported to the Pike County Jail.

Obert posted bond and was released pending court appearance.

*All suspect(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On December 27^th, 2022, the Pleasant Hill Police Department, Pike County Sheriff’s Department, and Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office conducted a criminal investigation in Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

As law enforcement officials were conducting surveillance on a residence in Pleasant Hill, they observed the suspect leave the residence and drive-off.  Law enforcement officials followed the suspect to a local establishment.

Subsequent to an investigation, Conel H. Rogers, age 43, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of a Stolen Firearm,
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon,
• Unlawful Possession of Firearms Ammunition by a Felon,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,

Rogers was further charged by the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office with felony theft (theft of a firearm) and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.  This incident is unrelated to the Pike County incident.

A passenger, Heather A. Shoemaker, age 29, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of a Stolen Firearm,
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (No FOID),
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Following their arrest, law enforcement officials followed up with the investigation and executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence in the 600 block of Brant Street, Pleasant Hill, Illinois.

During the execution of said search warrant, three (3) additional firearms were seized as well as firearms ammunition.

Rogers was further charged with the possession of the firearms located in his residence.

Both Rogers and Shoemaker are lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conversation Police and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services assisted with the investigation.

*The suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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December 30, 2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Temporary Restraining Order granted in Pike County; SAFE-T Act will not take effect on January 1

PITTSFIELD,IL – On December 30, 2022, Pike County Resident Circuit Judge J. Frank McCartney entered an order granting a temporary restraining order requested by Pike County State’s Attorney Zachary Boren and Pike County Sheriff David Greenwood. Pursuant to the order, the pretrial provisions of the SAFE-T Act will not take effect in Pike County. The order was based on the summary judgment order entered on December 28, 2022, by Judge Thomas W. Cunnington, Circuit Judge of the 21^st Judicial Circuit, finding the pretrial portions of the SAFE-T Act unconstitutional. Additionally, Judge Cunnington entered an order on December 30, 2022, clarifying that the amendments to the terms “bail” and “pre-trial release” are “facially unconstitutional, void, and unenforceable” as used in the pre-trial provisions of the SAFE-T Act. The Pike County case is set for status on January 6, 2023.

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PRESS RELEASE

On December 14^th, 2022, at 5:21 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence located on Kaiser Creek Road, Rockport, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Leslie R. Anderson, age 33, of Rockport, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance,
• Unlawful Possession of Hypodermic Syringes,
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon.

Anderson was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On December 14^th, 2022, at 1:55 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on Washington Street, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Jordan A. Clendenny, age 27, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested for the offense of unlawful possession of methamphetamine less than five (5) grams.

Clendenny was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On December 9^th, 2022, at 6:36 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, with assistance from the Quincy Police Department, arrested Rashelle L. Pruett, age 30, of Pittsfield, Illinois near Eighth Street and Jefferson Street, Quincy, Adams County, Illinois.

Rashelle was arrested and transported to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department on a Pike County warrant for Escape.

The escape charge stems from Pruett not returning to the Pike County Jail as directed.

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PRESS RELEASE

On December 6^th, 2022, Brandon M. Lord, age 29, of Barry, Illinois pled guilty in Pike County Circuit Court to the offense of Child Pornography, a class X felony, and was sentenced to six (6) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections followed by felony probation for the offenses of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and child pornography.

Pike County Sheriff David Greenwood said the investigation began in May of 2022, when information was received regarding the possession and reproduction of child pornography.

On July 5^th, 2022, at 6:30 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Illinois State Police, and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence located in rural Barry, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, Lord, was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail on child pornography and methamphetamine related charges.

Lord was accused of possessing and disseminating videos, via an electronic device, of children under the age of thirteen (13) years old engaged in sexual acts.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed multiple search warrants and was successfully able to identify, locate, and arrest Lord.

Sheriff Greenwood said his agency is a member of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and is headed by Chief Deputy Zack Orr.  The Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program (ICAC program) helps state and local law enforcement agencies develop an effective response to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and Internet crimes against children.

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Press Release

On 10-11-22, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was contacted by a local farm implement dealer and advised of the theft of multiple two zero-turn lawn mowers.

A six-week criminal investigation ensued, which led to the apprehension in Callaway County, Missouri of 37-year-old Patrick Butler of Auburn, Illinois. Butler is being held on a Pike County, Illinois arrest warrant for felony theft. Butler is on mandatory supervised release from the Illinois Department of Corrections.

During Butler’s arrest in Callaway County, Missouri, Butler was found to be in possession of a stolen camper, stolen truck, burglary tools, and methamphetamine.  Butler is also charged in Callaway County, Missouri for the aforesaid offenses.

This investigation was led by Chief Deputy Zack Orr who put in many hours of reviewing surveillance videos, interviewing witnesses, executing search warrants, following leads, retrieving data, and following up with other law enforcement agencies.  Chief Deputy Orr not only solved the crime here in Pike County, but numerous other crimes throughout Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin.

The incident remains under investigation.

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PRESS RELEASE

On September 29^th, 2022, at 9:18 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and West Central Illinois Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at a residence in the 700 block of Williams Street, Barry, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the following arrests were made:

Thomas J. Wallace, age 39, of Barry, Illinois:

• Unlawful Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Unlawful Use of Weapon,
• Three (3) Pike County, Illinois warrants.

Glenn Doug Christison, age 58, of Barry, Illinois:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Two (2) Pike County, Illinois warrants.

Ashley R. Fulmer, age 27, of Barry, Illinois:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Unlawful Possession of Hypodermic Syringes,
• Pike County, Illinois warrant.

All three were arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law and may have posted bond and released from the Pike County Jail prior to the posting of this press release.

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Press Release

On September 23^rd, 2022, at 7:10 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence located in the 400 block of W. Washington Street, Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Edward E. Hull, age 30, was arrested on charges of unlawful possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine, unlawful possession of methamphetamine, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Hull was arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law and may have posted bond and released from the Pike County Jail prior to the posting of this press release.

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Press Release

On September 24^th, 2022, at 8:02 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department assisted the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office with a pursuit that entered Pike County, Illinois.

The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop a red Chevrolet truck on State Highway 96 near Howell Hollow, Calhoun County, Illinois.  The truck fled from the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office at a high rate of speed.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department assisted with the pursuit.  During the pursuit the driver of the suspect vehicle turned their headlights off and continued to flee.

The pursuit ended when the suspect vehicle struck a guardrail on County Highway #11 north of Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

The driver, Jeremy A. Miller, age 38, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested on charges of:

• Aggravated Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Peace Officer,
• Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol,
• Reckless Driving,
• Improper Lane Usage,
• Failure to Reduce Speed to Avoid an Accident,
• Speeding (40 MPH+),
• Improper Lighting,
• Driving Without Lights When Required.

Miller was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

Miller is also charged in Calhoun County, Illinois for the offenses of:

• Aggravated Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Peace Officer,
• Reckless Driving,
• Speeding (40+MPH).

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by the Pleasant Hill Police Department, Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, Pleasant Hill Fire Department, Spring Creek Fire Department, and the Pike County Ambulance Service.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law and may have posted bond and released from the Pike County Jail prior to the posting of this press release.

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PRESS RELEASE

On September 26^th, 2022, at 8:40 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence located in the 400 block of North Stanford Street, Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Travis R. Brown, age 39, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.

Brown was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law and may have posted bond and released from the Pike County Jail prior to the posting of this press release.

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PRESS RELEASE

On September 22^nd, 2022, at 10:36 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on State Highway 106 east of Hull, Pike County, Illinois on a 2016 Jeep.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, John A. Reyes, age 51, of Barry Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Unlawful Possession of Adult-Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle (Driver),
• No Valid Driver’s License.

Reyes was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law and may have posted bond and released from the Pike County Jail prior to the posting of this press release.

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Press Release

Additional charges have been filed against Travis D. McDonald, age 37, of Griggsville, Illinois.

On September 19^th, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department filed additional charges against McDonald.

McDonald faces additional charges of:

• Burglary,
• Arson,
• Criminal Damage to Property ($10,000-$100,000)

McDonald is currently lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The incident occurred on July 26^th, 2022.  McDonald is accused of entering and setting a garage on fire in the 600 block of North Chandler Street, Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois.  The garage and contents were a total loss to the property owner.

The investigation is on-going and additional charges are likely.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law and may have posted bond and released from the Pike County Jail prior to the posting of this press release.

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Press Release

On September 20^th, 2022, at 1:15 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on Jefferson Street near Madison Street, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois on a 2004 Ford Freestyle.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Tonya C. Smallwood, age 53, of Hannibal, Missouri was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Adult-Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle (Driver),
• Driving Under the Influence of Any Amount of Drug,
• Attempting to Defraud a Drug Screening Device,
• Failure to Signal.

Smallwood was arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law and may have posted bond and released from the Pike County Jail prior to the posting of this press release.

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Press Release

On September 9^th, 2022, at 10:24 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on State Highway 106, Kinderhook, Pike County, Illinois on a silver 2007 Ford.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Phillip M. Treaster, age 34, of Hannibal, Missouri was arrested on charges of:

• Wanted on Warrant (Adams County, Illinois),
• Wanted on Warrant (Adams County, Illinois).
• Driving While License Suspended,
• Disobeying Stop Sign,
• Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle,

A passenger, Gregory S. Lish, age 38, of Quincy, Illinois was arrested on a charge of:

• Unlawful Use of Weapon,

A second passenger, Nicole M. Carpenter, age 43, of Quincy, Illinois was arrested on a charge of:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine.

All three (3) suspects were arrested without incident and transported and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law and may have posted bond and released from the Pike County Jail prior to the posting of this press release.

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Press Release

On September 21^st, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Kris W. Koeller, age 50, of Hull, Illinois on the following charges:

• Five (5) counts of Aggravated Battery,
• Nine (9) counts of Domestic Battery,
• One (1) count of Endangering the Life or Health of a Child.

The investigation began on or about September 1^st, 2022, when the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a report of suspected child abuse.

A thorough investigation was conducted and forwarded to the Pike County State’s Attorney’s Office for formal review.

The Pike County State’s Attorney’s Office approved the aforesaid charges and issued a warrant for Koeller’s arrest.

Koeller was arrested and transported to the Pike County Jail.

Koeller posted bond and was released pending court appearance.

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services assisted with the investigation.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law and may have posted bond and released from the Pike County Jail prior to the posting of this press release.

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Press Release

On Monday, September 12^th, 2022, at 3:41 A.M., Pike County Dispatch received a call of a structure fire at Lynch’s Livestock located at 31539 State Highway 107, Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois.  The main building was completely engulfed. The Griggsville Fire Department was dispatched to the scene. Along with the Griggsville Fire Department, the North Pike Fire Department, the Baylis Fire Department, the East Pike Fire Department, the Pittsfield Fire Department and Pike County EMS were also dispatched as requested for mutual aid. Upon fire personnel extinguishing the fire, it was determined the building was not salvageable.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal Division of Arson Investigation was contacted.

On Wednesday, September 14^th, 2022, at 6:02 A.M., Pike County Dispatch received a call of another structure fire at Lynch’s Livestock.  The west building of Lynch’s Livestock was on fire.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal Division of Arson Investigation was contacted.

On Thursday, September 15^th, 2022, at 4:59 A.M., Pike County Dispatch received a call of a truck tractor semi-trailer that was fully engulfed in flames while parked at Lynch’s Livestock.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal Division of Arson Investigation was contacted.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Office of the State Fire Marshal conducted an investigation and executed a court-authorized search warrant on Thursday, September 15th at a residence located in the 700 block of North Chandler Street, Griggsville, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, Travis D. McDonald, age 37, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested on charges of Arson and Criminal Damage to Property over $100,000.00.

During the course of the investigation, it was determined that McDonald was responsible for setting other fires in prior months in the same area.

The incident is under investigation and additional charges are pending.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On September 6^th, 2022, at 7:32 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a disturbance in the 600 block of Elm Street, Hull, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Carmella I. Birchum, age 38, and James M. Gardiner, age 53, both of Hull, Illinois were arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Both Birchum and Gardiner are lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On September 2^nd, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, while working for the Village of Hull, conducted a traffic stop on State Highway 106 west of Hull, Pike County, Illinois on a silver 2001 Honda passenger car.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Julie A. Templeton, age 62, of Plainville, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Unlawful Possession of Adult-Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle,
• Driving Under the Influence of Any Amount of Drug,
• Improper Lane Usage,

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On August 15^th, 2022, the Honorable Judge J. Frank McCartney sentenced Stephen R. Howard, age 41, of Baylis, Illinois to a total of twenty (20) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections following his guilty plea on three (3) counts of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse and Child Pornography, a class X felony.

The investigation began in March of 2021 after a complaint of sexual abuse was made by a victim under the age of eighteen (18) years old.  The investigation was conducted by Chief Deputy Zack Orr and Deputy Chastity Anderson of the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.  Pike County Assistant State’s Attorney Leecia Carnes prosecuted the case.

Chief Deputy Orr said his agency will continue to aggressively investigate claims of sexual abuse and child pornography.

“I appreciate the excellent work by Chief Deputy Zack Orr, Deputy Chastity Anderson, and Assistant State’s Attorney Leecia Carnes on this case,” said Pike County State’s Attorney Zack Boren. “My office will continue to work closely with all of our local law enforcement agencies to prosecute sex offenders who endanger children in Pike County.”

 

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Press Release

08-26-22

On Tuesday morning, August 23, 2022, 51-year-old, Christopher A. Africh from Beardstown Illinois was ordered in custody in lieu of a $6,000 bond during an appearance in criminal court at the Pike County Courthouse. As Africh was being escorted across the street to the Pike County Jail, he fled from the officer. Africh was located approximately 30 minutes later hiding under a porch in the 200 Block of West Jefferson Street.

Africh was escorted back to the Pike County Courthouse at 1:00 PM where he was charged with Escape. Africh is presently being lodged at the Pike County Jail in Lieu of a $200,000 bond.

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Press Release

On August 25^th, 2022, at 9:26 P.M., the Pleasant Hill Police Department and Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a report of suspicious activity at Shell Jiffi Stop, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, law enforcement officials located the vehicle.  The driver, Amy L. Woolford, age 34, of Smithboro, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Driving Under the Influence of Any Amount of Drug,
• No Valid Driver’s License,
• Obstructing Identification (Provided a false name),
• Aggravated DUI (DUI and No Valid Driver’s License),
• Wanted on Warrant-Madison County, Illinois for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Obstructing Identification).

The passenger, Shannon E. Grills, age 41, of Greenville, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Wanted on Warrant-St. Clair County, Illinois for Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine.
• Wanted on Warrant-Bond County, Illinois for Domestic Battery.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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On August 19^th, 2022, at 3:40 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on US Highway 54 west of Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois, on a 2009 Jaguar.

Subsequent to an investigation, a passenger, Danielle L. Adams, age 39, of Vandalia, Missouri was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and two (2) counts of unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

Danielle was transported and released to the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On August 17^th, 2022, at 9:10 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department initiated a drug investigation at the Pike County Jail.  Through the course of the investigation, it was determined that inmates, working as trustees, had smuggled methamphetamine into the Pike County Jail Facility (Penal Institution). No contraband actually made it to the jail cells.

Subsequent to a thorough investigation, the following arrests were made:

Sarah M. Burton, age 34, of Manchester, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Bringing Contraband (Methamphetamine) into a Penal Institution,
• Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine.

Richard S. Burton, age 41, of Manchester, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Bringing Contraband (Methamphetamine) into a Penal Institution,
• Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

James R. Merryman, age 55, of Pittsfield, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Penal Institution,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On August 15^th, 2022, at 4:36 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, while working for the Village of Hull, conducted a traffic stop on State Highway 106 west of Hull, Pike County, Illinois on a 2003 Chevrolet truck.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Bill L. Mears, age 56, of Hannibal, Missouri was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Aggravated Driving Under the Influence,
• DUI (Any Amount of Drug),
• Driving While License Suspended,
• Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle,
• Obstructed View.

A passenger, Lynn A. Clement, age 43, of Hannibal, Missouri, was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Failure to Wear Seat Belt by a Passenger.

Both Mears and Clement are lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On July 31^st, 2022, at 7:03 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a residence located along the Perry Fishhook Blacktop in reference to a residential burglary and theft complaint.

Subsequent to a thorough investigation, multiple suspect(s) have been identified and identified.

On August 8^th, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Loren A. Orr, age 38, of Barry, Illinois for the following offenses:

• Residential Burglary,
• Theft,
• Unlawful Possession of Stolen Vehicle Titles.

On August 9^th, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department followed-up with the criminal investigation and arrested Rachel M. Scranton, age 34, of Perry, Illinois for the following offenses:

• Residential Burglary,
• Theft,
• Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Both Orr and Scranton are lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The investigation is on-going.  Further arrests are pending.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

   

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Press Release

On August 7^th, 2022, at 8:50 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, while working for the City of Barry, Illinois, conducted a traffic stop on I-72 near mile post 20 on a white 2015 Chevrolet passenger car.

Subsequent to an investigation, a passenger, Jonathan A. Kollinger, age 50, of Salt Lake City, Utah was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance.
• Unlawful Possession with Intent to Deliver Cannabis over 100 Grams.

Kollinger was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On July 15^th, 2022, at 4:42 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, while working for the Village of Hull, Illinois, conducted a traffic stop on State Highway 106 on the west edge of Hull, Illinois on a silver 2007 Dodge truck.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Ronald C. Shrader, age 63, of Plainville, Illinois was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

A passenger, Nancy L. Taylor, age 52, of Plainville, Illinois was arrested on a charge of unlawful possession of methamphetamine.  Taylor was also arrested on a felony Adams County, Illinois warrant for failure to appear on a charge of unlawful possession of methamphetamine.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On July 24^th, 2022, at 12:46 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, while working for the City of Barry, was dispatched to a residence in Barry, Pike County, Illinois regarding a theft complaint.

Subsequent to an investigation, Shelby B. Burch, age 30, of Barry, Illinois was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail on two counts of theft and forgery.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On July 18^th, 2022, at 1:03 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on Washington Street, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois on a silver 2004 Jeep Cherokee.

Subsequent to an investigation, Jesika L. Denison, age 32, of Bowling Green, Missouri was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On July 27^th, 2022, at 11:02 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop on East Middle Street, Nebo, Pike County, Illinois on a four-wheeler.

The driver of the four-wheeler refused to stop and a brief pursuit occurred.  The Deputy Sheriff terminated the pursuit after identifying the driver of the four-wheeler.

On July 28^th, 2022, at 6:48 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department followed up with the investigation and arrested Walter L. Michel, age 26, of Nebo, Illinois at a residence in rural Nebo, Illinois on the following charges:

• Aggravated Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Police Officer,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance,
• Driving While License Revoked (Felony),
• Unlawful Possession of Hypodermic Syringes,
• Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle,
• Failure to Use to Turn Signal,
• Improper Lane Usage,
• Improper Operation of an ATV on Roadway.

Michel, who is on mandatory supervised release from the Illinois Department of Corrections, was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On July 29^th, 2022, at 4:10 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, while working for the Village of Hull, went to a residence located in the 600 block of Elm Street, Hull, Pike County, Illinois on an attempted warrant service.

Subsequent to an investigation, Carmella I. Birchum, age 38, of Hull, Illinois was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Also arrested during the investigation was James M. Gardiner, age 53, of Hull, Illinois on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

The incident remains under investigation.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

     

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Press Release

On July 31^st, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed two (2) court-authorized search warrants at separate locations in Baylis, Pike County, Illinois.

During the execution of said search warrants, firearms and firearms ammunition were located and seized.

Arrested as a result of the search warrants was Donovan G. Syrcle, age 34, of Baylis, Illinois on charges of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon and Unlawful Possession of Firearms Ammunition by a Felon.

Syrcle was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On July 30^th, 2022, at 2:14 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on Washington Street near Shetland Drive, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois on a 2001 Mazda.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Christina A. Casteel, age 44, of St. Louis, Missouri was arrested and lodged on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine Less Than Five (5) Grams,
• Unlawful Possession of Adult-Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle by a Driver,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance,
• Driving While License Revoked,
• Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On June 14^th, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department initiated a criminal investigation after receiving information about a threat made against a public official via a social media platform.

On July 2^nd, 2022, at 3:27 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Keith E. Wright, age 44, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois on a Pike County, Illinois warrant for Threatening a Public Official.

Keith was arrested without incident and transported to the Pike County Jail.

Keith was also arrested on an Illinois Department of Corrections Parole Violation Warrant.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On July 5^th, 2022, at 6:30 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Illinois State Police, and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence located in rural Barry, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, Brandon M. Lord, age 28, of Barry, Illinois was arrested on the following offenses:

• Twelve (12) counts of Dissemination of Child Pornography,
• Unlawful Possession of Child Pornography,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Lord is accused of possessing and disseminating videos, via an electronic device, of children under the age of thirteen (13) years old engaged in various sexual acts.

The investigation began in May of 2022, when information was received regarding the possession and dissemination of child pornography. The investigation was forwarded to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department for further investigation.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed multiple search warrants and were successfully able to identify, locate, and arrest the suspect.

Sheriff David Greenwood said his agency recently joined the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, and is headed by Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Chief Deputy Zachary Orr. The ICAC Task Force is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces, representing 5400 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, dedicated to investigating, prosecuting, and developing effective responses to internet crimes against children.

Lord remains lodged the in the Pike County Jail in lieu of $500,000 bond.

The investigation is on-going.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On June 26^th, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Terrell W. Bell, age 49, of Barry, Illinois on a Pike County warrant for the original offense of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Bell was arrested and later released after posting bond.

All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department currently monitors fifty-seven (57) registered adult sex offenders.  Sheriff Greenwood said this does not include juvenile sex offenders and/or murderer/violent offender against youth offenders.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department is very proactive when it comes to monitoring registered sex offenders and making sure offenders are compliant.

Since Sheriff Greenwood was elected, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department has made over fifty (50) arrests relating to the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act. Sheriff Greenwood said this will continue in hopes of bringing violators of these types of crimes into compliance with standing law or to justice.

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PRESS RELEASE

On December 22^nd, 2021, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department initiated a sexual assault investigation in Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois.  The investigation involved two (2) victims both under the age of thirteen (13) years old.

On June 16^th, 2022, as a result of a criminal investigation, Charles Sonny Ray Martin, age 36, of Center, Missouri, was arrested on three (3) counts of predatory criminal sexual assault and aggravated criminal sexual abuse.

Martin remains lodged in the Pike County Jail in lieu of a $500,000 bond.

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 15^th, 2022, at 2:00 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Isaac E. Henson, age 21, of Griggsville, Illinois on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender and false information provided by a sex offender.

The incident came under investigation when law enforcement officials discovered Henson, who is currently on felony probation in Pike County, Illinois for the offenses of indecent solicitation of a child and grooming, was utilizing a social media site listed under another person’s name.

Henson remains lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 12^th, 2022, at 6:34 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, received a call of a suspicious person in the City of Barry.  The caller said her daughter and her daughter’s friends were walking around Barry, Illinois when an older male subject riding a bicycle approached the juveniles and began speaking to them.

Subsequent to an investigation, Robert W. Niffen, age 62, of Houston, Texas, was arrested on a Texas Department of Corrections Parole Violation Warrant.  The Texas Department of Corrections listed Niffen’s original charges as aggravated rape and escape from a penal institution.  The Texas Department of Corrections listed Niffen as a violent Sex Offender Absconder.  Niffen has a lengthy criminal history.

Niffen was further charged with obstructing justice for initially providing a false name and failure to register as a sex offender.

Niffen’s bond in Pike County, Illinois was set at $150,000.

Niffen’s Parole Violation Warrant has no bond.

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 10^th, 2022, at 2:52 P.M, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, while working for the Village of Hull, conducted a traffic stop on a silver 2005 Dodge Stratus.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Robert E. Harris, age 50, of Plainville, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Driving While License Suspended,
• Operation of an Uninsured Motor Vehicle,
• Improper Use of Registration,
• Failure to Secure Child,
• Pike County, Illinois Warrant for Petition to Revoke/Arraignment on charges of failure to report to a penal institution, two (2) counts of Driving While License Suspended, Operation of an Uninsured Motor Vehicle, and Improper Use of Registration,
• Morgan County, Illinois Warrant for FTA Driving While License Suspended.

A passenger, Sherry S. Riley, age 40, of Plainville, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Obstructing Justice,
• Adams County, Illinois Warrant for FTA on Driving While License Suspended,
• Macon County, Illinois Warrant for FTA on Driving Under the Influence of Drugs,
• Marion County, Missouri Warrant, for FTA on Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance.

Both Harris and Riley were lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 8^th, 2022 at 7:39 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department conducted a traffic stop in the 700 block of West Quincy Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois on a white 2003 Chevrolet minivan for the offense of speeding.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Brandy M. Stoye, age 33, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested on charges of driving while license suspended, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and speeding. Stoye was cited and released pending a court appearance.

A passenger, Buffy N. Burbridge, age 28, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, and unlawful possession of hypodermic syringes.

Burbridge was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

 ***Update on Drowning on 06-04-22***

 On 06-04-22, 79-year-old Gerald S. Stocker from Winchester was pronounced dead following a scuba diving accident while performing maintenance on a drain in a pond in rural Pike County. The investigation is still ongoing.

 Sheriff/Coroner David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 4, 2022, at 12:37 PM, deputies from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department were dispatched to a rural pond in Fairmont Township in Pike County for a reported drowning. Pike County Deputies arrived on scene along with rescue personnel. A 79-year-old male from Scott County was later pronounced dead by the Pike County Coroner. The name is being withheld pending notification. The investigation is ongoing.

Rescue teams from the East Pike Fire Department, Baylis Fire Department and the Griggsville Fire Department assisted at the scene. The tasks these individuals perform are exceptional and instrumental when responding to incidents such as these.

Sheriff/Coroner David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 24^th, 2022, at 4:23 P.M., a Pike County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Sheriff, while working for the Village of Hull, conducted a traffic stop on a 2001 Mitsubishi SUV on East Street, Hull, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Mark S. Tischer, age 57, of New London, Missouri was arrested on the following charges:

• Electronic Communication Device (Cellular Phone),
• No Valid Driver’s License,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Tischer was transported and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in the court of law.

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Press Release

On May 22^nd, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Rachelle R. Gress, age 25, of Griggsville, Illinois on a charge of threatening a public official.

The investigation began when the Pike County Sheriff’s Department became aware of a threat to the immediate family of a public official posted on a social media website.

Law enforcement officials determined Gress was responsible for the threat and Gress was arrested at her residence.

Gress is lodged in the Pike County Jail.

On May 23^rd, 2022, Gress was charged by the Pike County State’s Attorney Office and bond was set at $50,000.

Additionally, a warrant was issued for Gress for petition to revoke bond.  Bond was set at $75,000.

* All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 12^th, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department initiated a criminal investigation regarding a failure to register as a murderer and violent offender against youth investigation in Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Christian M. Beck, age 22, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois was arrested on May 19^th, 2022, on two (2) counts of failure to register as a murderer and violent offender against youth.

Christian remains lodged in the Pike County Jail.  Christian is currently on mandatory supervised release from the Illinois Department of Corrections.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in the court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 11^th, 2022, at 8:28 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence in the 200 block of West Fourth Street, Baylis, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, over fifty (50) grams of a substance containing methamphetamine, methamphetamine-related drug paraphernalia, and hypodermic syringes were located and seized.

Arrested, as a result of the search warrant, was Laura J. Syrcle, age 35, of Baylis, Illinois.  Syrcle was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, unlawful possession of hypodermic syringes, and three (3) Pike County, Illinois warrants.

Syrcle is lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

To the People of Pike County, IL – The Pike County Sheriff’s Department announces it issued citations or made arrest during the Distracted Driving Campaign Enforcement. During the enforcement period, 18 handsfree law violations, 4 criminal arrests, 2 traffic arrests, and 14 other various citations were issued during the April distracted driving enforcement period.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department joined forces with state and local law enforcement and highway safety partners for this enforcement effort.

Using your phone in anything other than handsfree mode in Illinois is not only dangerous, it is illegal. Break the cycle. Drop It and Drive.

The Illinois distracted driving campaign is funded with federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 4^th, 2022, at 6:03 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on State Highway 106 west of US Highway 54 on a black Toyota Corolla.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Jessica R. Jackson, age 22, of Indianapolis, IN was arrested for the offenses of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of hypodermic syringes.

Jackson was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

PRESS RELEASE

On April 4^th, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department initiated a failure to register as a sex offender investigation in Barry, Pike County, Illinois.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department went to the sex offender’s registered address and discovered the sex offender no longer resided there.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department applied for and received a warrant for the arrest of Devon L. Wagner.

On May 7^th, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department located Wagner in the 200 block of Pleasant Vale Street, New Canton, Pike County, Illinois.

Wagner was taken into custody without incident.

Wagner also had a second Pike County, Illinois warrant for failure to appear on charges of burglary, felony theft, unlawful possession of methamphetamine, and obstructing justice.

Wagner remains lodged in the Pike County Jail.

 

PRESS RELEASE

On May 9^th, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on County Highway #14.

Subsequent to an investigation, a passenger, William J. Higgins, age 44, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested on a Pike and Adams County warrant.

Law enforcement officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed a court-authorized search warrant at Higgins’s residence located in the 100 block of South Bickford Street, Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, methamphetamine and hypodermic syringes were located.

Higgins is lodged in the Pike County Jail on a Pike County warrant, Adams County warrant, and new charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of hypodermic syringes.

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PRESS RELEASE

05-05-22

On March 26^th, 2022, Pike County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a reported pursuit of a vehicle that fled from a Meredosia Police Officer during a traffic stop. The Meredosia Police Officer (Steve Lowry) also serves as a full-time Pike County Sheriff’s Deputy. Deputy Lowry was working a part-time shift for the City of Meredosia. During the traffic stop, Deputy Lowry observed the driver (Daniel Payne) with a firearm and Payne was refusing to follow commands from Deputy Lowry.

The pursuit traveled into Chambersburg then back to Meredosia and back into Pike County. While back in Meredosia, Chapin Police Chief Steve Helmich got involved in the pursuit The pursuit eventually led Deputy Lowry, Chief Helmich, Deputy Skyler Lambeth and Deputy Dan Williams into Griggsville, then back northbound into Brown County.

Approximately four miles into Brown County, the vehicle being pursued crashed into a guardrail and careened further northbound coming to a stop, sideways in the roadway.

As Chief Helmich was approaching Payne’s crashed vehicle, Payne exited his vehicle, shooting at Chief Helmich with Chief Helmich boldly returning fire. At the same time, Pike County Deputies, Lowry and Lambeth exited their vehicles and approached the crashed vehicle while shots were being fired. Deputy Lowry observed Chief Helmich go down after being shot, and disregarding his own safety, with his firearm drawn, pulled Chief Helmich to a safe location near a police vehicle. Simultaneously, Deputy Lambeth, going towards the gunfire without regards to his own safety, returned fire to Payne, briefly disabling him. Deputy Williams arrived on scene where he and Deputy Lambeth assisted in tending to Chief Helmich’s injuries with Deputy Williams applying his tourniquet to the leg of Chief Helmich, replacing a dog leash that was initially used as a tourniquet.

While Deputy Lambeth and Williams were tending to Chief Helmich, Deputy Lowry and Brown County Deputy Rusty Richard, who was also on scene, were able to take Payne into custody without further incident.

The reason I wanted to explain some of the details of this incident is to point out the bravery in the face of obvious danger to one’s life. These officers were being shot at and still did not back down, but did their jobs extremely professional, utilizing their training to perfection and bringing this dangerous incident to conclusion.

Sheriff’s Deputies and Police Officers are not alone during incidents such as these. On this evening, Pike County 911 Dispatcher Missy Grimsley was on duty along with Pike County 911 Supervisor Stephanie Reinhardt, professionally completing their tasks as Telecommunicators, communicating with the Officers and dispatching needed services at the right times to bring this incident to a conclusion. 911 Dispatchers are the unsung heroes who usually do not get their rightful recognition.

The above noted individuals were the ones on duty that evening, but I know that in the face of danger and overwhelming stress, any one of the Deputies, Officers and Dispatchers employed at the Pike County Sheriff’s Department would have professionally handled the situation the same.

Here is a list of those individuals who sacrifice so much for Pike County and do outstanding things like this every day, but not always publicly recognized for it:

Stephanie Reinhardt, Stacie Willard, Kayla Rouse, Missy Grimsley, Harmony Clendenny, Taylor Martin, Hope Scott, Brady Milnes, Angie Brawdy, Dusty Brennecke, Gage Weir, Kodiak Rogers, Lauren Kennedy, Justin Miller, Wade Howland, Cody Carter, Jennifer Cox, Robert Slinkard, Jarrod Carriger, Coltyn Pruner, Jinger Johnson, Daniel Brennecke, Zachary Orr, Matthew Frazier, Steve Lowry, Chastity Anderson, Scott (Nate) Bradshaw, Mike Johnson, Skyler Lambeth, Ryan Rouse, Ryan Crowder, Steve Snyder, Dan Williams, Jason Herren.

 

Sheriff David Greenwood

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Press Release

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department announces the arrest of Dylan C. Guthrie, age 18, of Pittsfield, Illinois on charges of predatory criminal sexual assault (family member under the age of 13) and aggravated criminal sexual abuse.

On May 4^th, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department initiated a predatory criminal sexual assault investigation in rural Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois.

As a result of the criminal investigation, Dylan was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by the Department of Children and Family Services and the Children’s Advocacy Network.

*The suspect is considered innocent until proven guilty of a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

04-29-22

On 04-28-22, at approximately 7:49 AM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was contacted regarding a white, 2018 Ford F-150 Pickup Truck that was stolen from the 1000 block of Decatur Street in Barry Illinois.

Upon arrival of Deputies, it was discovered that suspects also got into another vehicle and rifled through it, along with entering a closed garage.

While investigating this theft, deputies came upon a black Honda Sport Utility Vehicle, parked near the Barry swimming pool that came back as being stolen from Hannibal earlier in the morning.

During the investigation, Deputies were able to discover the location of the F-150 in Hannibal Missouri.

Pike County Investigators contacted the Hannibal Police Department who went to the location reported and located the F-150. The vehicle was processed by Hannibal Police Department Crime Scene Investigators and returned to the owner.

This investigation is still very ongoing with much evidence being processed in order to bring the criminals who stole these vehicles to justice.

If you have any information regarding these theft’s please call the Pike County Sheriff’s Department at 217-285-5011 or you can call the Pike County Crime Stoppers at 217-285-1500. When calling Crime Stoppers you can remain anonymous. If the information you provide leads to the arrest of the individual/s involved, you will be eligible for a cash reward.

I know we live mostly in small towns and rural areas here in Pike County, but always lock the doors of your vehicles, remove your keys or key fobs from your vehicle and do not leave valuables in them. These crimes are crimes of opportunity where criminals go from car to car, pulling on door handles until they find one that is open.

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PRESS RELEASE

On April 25^th, 2022, at 6:38 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to Milton, Pike County, Illinois, in reference to a suspicious vehicle.

Deputies located the aforesaid vehicle and conducted a traffic stop on Davis Street near Pittsfield Street, Milton, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Dustin L. Henderson, age 38, of Louisiana, Missouri was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, driving under the influence of drugs, and no valid driver’s license.

Henderson was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in the court of law.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On April 26^th, 2022, at 4:18 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on a maroon 2003 Buick near the intersection of North Monroe Street at East Perry Street, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Tabitha L. Mulford, age 45, of Nebo, Illinois was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine less than five (5) grams and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Mulford was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The Pittsfield Police Department assisted with the investigation.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in the court of law.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On April 22^nd, 2022, at 5:19 P.M., the Pleasant Hill Police Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a red and black Baja Warrior 200cc Minibike on Brant Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

The driver was identified as Darryl Wayne Bequette Jr., age 34, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois.  Bequette, who had warrants out of both Pike and Calhoun Counties, fled from law enforcement by driving through residential yards and on top of the levee.

Law enforcement was able to track Bequette to a wooded area south of the Pleasant Hill Grade School.  Bequette was taken into custody and charged with the following offenses:

• Aggravated Fleeing or Attempting to Elude (2 or more traffic control devices),
• Aggravated Fleeing or Attempting to Elude (2 or more traffic control devices),
• Driving While License Suspended,
• Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle,
• No Valid Registration,
• Reckless Driving,
• Eight (8) counts of Disobeying a Traffic Control Device,
• Operation of an Off-Highway Motorcycle in a Careless Manner,
• Operation of Non-Highway Vehicles on Roadway,
• Calhoun County, Illinois, Warrant-Failure to Pay Fine (17-TR-243)
• Pike County, Illinois, Warrant-Failure to Appear at Arraignment on charges of Gift or Sale of Liquor to a Minor, Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine, and Driving While License Suspended.

Bequette is lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The Pleasant Hill Police Department was assisted by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 7, 2021

 For Information, Contact:

Chief Deputy Zack Orr

(217) 285-5011

pikesheriffil@pikecountysd.org

 NEWS

Drop It and Drive: April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

 To the People of Pike County, IL – April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and the Pike County Sheriff’s Department is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and more than 200 local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to remind motorists to “Drop It and Drive.”

Texting while driving puts everyone on the road at risk by distracting a driver visually, manually, and cognitively. During Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department will be working to increase awareness of these dangers and encourage all motorists to give driving their full attention.”

At a time when traffic fatalities are on the rise in Illinois and across the country, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department is committed to reducing the traffic crashes caused by distractions like texting or talking on a cell phone.

Motorists can expect to see increased patrols and enforcement zones the entire month of April. The Pike County Sheriff’s Department will be ticketing drivers who text or use their cell phones while driving.

The distracted driving campaign is administered by IDOT with federal traffic safety funds.

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Press Release

On March 14^th, 2022, at 7:39 A.M., the Pleasant Hill Police Department and Pike County Sheriff’s Department were dispatched to a residence in the 500 block of Carolina Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois in reference to a theft complaint.

Subsequent to an investigation, Jennifer K. Hughes, age 39, of Cottage Hills, Illinois was arrested for the offense of felony theft.  Hughes remains in custody at the Pike County Jail.

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Press Release

UPDATE:  It has been confirmed that the person seen walking on 372nd St., North of State Highway 104 WAS NOT Austin.

On 03-13-22, at 1:59 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a report of a missing person. It was reported that 30-year-old, Austin Joel Shaw, White/Male had been missing since the early evening of 03-07-22.

Austin was last seen just south west of Fishhook, where it was reported he was dropped off to go rock hunting. A couple items belonging to Austin were reportedly found in this area. This area was searched on 03-14-22 on foot. The Illinois State Police Air Operations were contacted and they searched this area from the air. On 03-15-22, a larger scale ground search was conducted of the area with 34 volunteers including the Baylis Fire, Brown County EMA, Griggsville Fire, North Pike Fire, Meredosia Fire, the Pike County Volunteer Emergency Corps and Pike County EMS. This also included private citizens and family who showed up to help.

On 03-15-22, the Sheriff’s Department received a very credible tip that said Austin was observed walking north of State Highway 104 on 372^nd Street on 03-10-22 at approximately 4:30 PM. This area is a much larger area and was searched by the Illinois State Police Air Operations who were in the air for about three hours, searching the area. Ground searches of this area has and are still taking place.

This is still a very active investigation and we have received dozens of tips. We are asking for your help. If you have seen Austin or have credible information about the whereabouts of Austin, please call the Pike County Sheriff’s Department at 217-285-5011. You can remain anonymous if you would like.  We are also asking landowners in these areas to please check any game cameras to see if an image of Austin may have been captured.

The photographs attached show two photographs of Austin on his birthday the day before he was missing and the other is from a surveillance camera showing what Austin was last seen wearing.

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PRESS RELEASE

On March 5^th, 2022, at 7:35 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and West Central Illinois Drug Task Force executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence in the 600 block of Tremont Street, Barry, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, methamphetamine, digital scales, hypodermic syringes, methamphetamine related drug paraphernalia, and a firearm were recovered.

Arrested as a result of the search warrant were:

Brent E. Smith, age 28, of Barry for the offenses of unlawful possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of hypodermic syringes, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.  Smith was also arrested on three (3) Pike County, Illinois warrants.

Jessie M. Grawe, age 23, of Barry for the offenses of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of hypodermic syringes.

Both Smith and Grawe were lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On March 8^th, 2022, James A., Kurtz, age 41, of Barry, Illinois was sentenced to nine (9) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections following a methamphetamine related investigation.

The investigation began on January 10^th, 2022, when Chief Deputy Zack Orr, while working for the Village of Hull, conducted a traffic stop on McCraney Creek Road near State Highway 106.

Subsequent to an investigation, Kurtz, who was on mandatory supervised release from the Illinois Department of Corrections at the time, was identified as the driver of the vehicle.  Kurtz had an outstanding Pike County, Illinois warrant.  During Kurtz’s arrest, he was found to be in possession of methamphetamine and hypodermic syringes.

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Press Release

On February 28^th, 2022, at 1:44 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a business in rural Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois regarding suspected methamphetamine being located.

Subsequent to an investigation, Steven W. Moesch, age 52, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Steven was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On March 7^th, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department initiated a failure to register as a sex offender investigation in Pleasant Hill, Illinois.

On March 8^th, 2022, at 10:29 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department arrested Jude R. Bay, age 18, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois at a residence in Pleasant Hill.

Jude was arrested, transported, and lodged in the Pike County Jail on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender.

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Press Release

On 03-09-22, at 7:21 PM the Pike County Sheriff’s Department along with the East Pike Fire Department, the Spring Creek Fire Department and Pike County EMS were dispatched to a single unit vehicle crash on State Highway 100, south of 166^th Avenue in Pearl Township.

Upon arrival of Emergency Responders, it was discovered that 36-year-old, Brad L. Eigenman of Rural Nebo was deceased due to injuries sustained in the crash. The vehicle driven by Eigenman had struck a tree that had fallen across the roadway.

This was a tragic accident that could happen to anyone. Mr. Eigenman happened to be the person that was on traveling on that road at that time. So many of Pike County’s Highways are surrounded by large trees. Always be alert when you are traveling on them, especially after dark.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

On February 25^th, 2022 Kodiak Rogers and Lauren Kennedy graduated from the Macon County Law Enforcement Training Center in Decatur Illinois, which is partnered with the Sangamon County Corrections Academy.

Lauren and Kodiak have been employed with the Pike County Sheriff’s Department for some time now. They are both extremely hard working, professional and dedicated officers. They are also just all around great individuals.

Since in-person training is opening back up in the state, we were able to get them enrolled in the academy. I am grateful to have Kodiak and Lauren on our staff. I look forward to them having long careers in law enforcement at the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

Sheriff David Greenwood

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On February 28^th, 2022, at 4:43 P.M., the West Central Illinois Task Force, Pike County Sheriff’s Department, and Pleasant Hill Police Department executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence located in the 300 block of Mound Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant the following suspect(s) were arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

Phillip R. Stauffer, age 25, of Pleasant Hill was arrested and charged with:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Firearms/Firearms Ammunition,
• Resisting Arrest,
• Pike County, Illinois Failure to Appear Warrant,
• Calhoun County, Illinois Failure to Appear Warrant.

Nickie M. Shewmake, age 27, Pleasant Hill was arrested and charged with:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Obstructing Justice,
• Concealing or Aiding a Fugitive.

*All suspect(s) are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

A second arrest has been made regarding a December 2021, search warrant at a residence located in the 100 block of Thomas Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

On December 18^th, 2021, law enforcement officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Pleasant Hill Police Department, and West Central Illinois Drug Task Force executed the aforesaid search warrant.

During the execution of said search warrant, methamphetamine, methamphetamine-related drug paraphernalia, and controlled substances were seized. Arrested at the time of the search warrant was Carrie D. McCurley, age 40, of Pleasant Hill.

On February 15^th, 2022, Dustin A. Schnelten, age 46, of Carrollton, Illinois was arrested by the Greene County Sheriff’s Office on a Pike County warrant for the original offense of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Schnelten posted bond and was released pending a court appearance.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On February 15^th, 2022, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and West Central Illinois Task Force executed a court authorized search warrant at a residence located in the 100 block of South Walnut Street, Nebo, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, methamphetamine, methamphetamine related drug paraphernalia, and scales were located and seized.

As a result of the search warrant, Tabatha L. Mulford, age 45, of Nebo, Illinois was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, and a Pike County, Illinois, warrant for Petition for Revocation of Probation.

Mulford was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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Press Release

01-27-22

During the early morning of January 24^th, a Pike County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on the eastbound onramp of I-72 in Barry.

Subsequent to the stop, twenty-six-year-old, Kirk M. Beumer of Sheriaden Indiana was arrested for:

• Possession of Methamphetamine
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Possession With the Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance
• Driving Under the Influence of a Drug Substance or Intoxicating Compound

Beumer was transported to the Pike County Jail where he was lodged pending a court appearance.

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Press Release

On January 15^th, 2022, at 11:02 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to the west edge of Hull, Pike County, Illinois regarding a jack-knifed truck and trailer as well as a male and female arguing with each other.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Jennifer P. Lundell, age 37, of Staples, MN and the passenger, Elijah P. Sarbaum, age 37, of Motley, MN were arrested on charges of unlawful possession with intent to deliver 15-100 grams of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, and unlawful possession of cannabis.

Both Lundell and Sarbaum remain lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The incident remains under investigation and further charges are likely.

*The suspect(s) are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Press Release

On January 14^th, 2022, at 6:07 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on N. Jackson Street, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois, on a 2019 Mitsubishi.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Phillip P. Barnes, age 21, of Pittsfield, Illinois was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Barnes was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by the Pittsfield Police Department.

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Press Release

On January 10^th, 2022, at 7:28 A.M., while working for the Village of Hull, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on McCraney Creek Road approx. ½ of a mile north of State Highway 106 on a tan colored 1995 Buick passenger car.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, James A. Kurtz, age 41, of Barry was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine Less Than Five (5) Grams,
• Unlawful Possession of Hypodermic Syringes,
• Driving Under the Influence (Any amount of drug),
• Unlawful Possession of Adult-Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle,
• Improper Use of Turn Signal.
• Pike County, Illinois, warrant for Petition for Revocation of Probation,
• Pike County, Illinois, warrant for Failure to Appear.

Kurtz is lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The incident remains under investigation and further arrests are likely.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by the Illinois State Police.

*All suspect(s) are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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ILLINOIS SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION

ANNOUNCES SCHOLARSHIPS

 The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association announces that it will be awarding over $58,000 in college scholarships throughout the State of Illinois to students wishing to pursue higher education during the 2022-2023 academic year. The scholarships are to be applied to tuition, books and fees only. The student must be enrolled full-time at a certified institution of higher learning within the State of Illinois, full-time online learning is acceptable.

Pike County Sheriff David Greenwood, will be awarding the scholarship in the amount of $500.00, which will be selected by a committee made up of citizens of Pike County.

There will be no restriction on any applicant by reason of race, age, creed, color, sex or national origin. The only limitations are as follows:

• Applicants must be permanent Illinois residents
• Scholarships must be utilized at institutions of higher learning within the State of Illinois
• Students must be enrolled as a full-time student during the 2022-2023 school year (excluding summer session).

 Applications are now available at your local Sheriff’s office or on the ISA Website https://www.ilsheriff.org/youth-2/  Students must complete the application; answer the essay question and return all documentation to the Sheriff’s office in their permanent county of residence by March 15, 2022 (must be postmarked by this date). Directory of Sheriffs offices available on our website. https://www.ilsheriff.org/sheriffs-directory/  For more information, please contact your local Sheriff’s office, Illinois Sheriffs’ Association, high school advising center or college financial aid office.

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PRESS RELEASE

The Pleasant Hill Police Department and Pike County Sheriff’s Department are currently investigating two (2) motor vehicle thefts.

The first theft occurred on December 11^th, 2021 at 10:46 P.M.  The suspect(s) stole a red 2002 Toyota Solara from a residence in the 100 block of East Quincy Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

The stolen vehicle was last seen traveling west on West Quincy Street.

The second theft occurred on December 20^th, 2021, at 12:00 P.M.  The suspect stole a red 2004 GMC Sierra 2500 truck from a parking lot in the 100 block of Parkview Drive, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

The stolen truck was last seen traveling south on Parkview Drive.

If anyone has any information about the whereabouts of the stolen vehicles or the suspects involved, they are urged to call Pike County Crimestoppers at (217) 285-1500.

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Press Release

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department and West Central Illinois Drug Task Force arrest three (3) on methamphetamine related charges.

On December 20^th, 2021, at 8:11 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop in the 300 block of West Quincy Street, Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Phillip L. Embree, age 31, of Perry was arrested on charges of:

• Unlawful Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine (5-15 grams),
• Unlawful of Cannabis Over 100 Grams,
• Unlawful Use of Possession of Weapon by a Felon.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department and West Central Illinois Task Force followed up with the investigation and conducted a court-authorized search warrant in the 100 block of Main Street, Perry, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, Justin L. Lockhart, age 33, of Pittsfield, Illinois was arrested on two (2) outstanding Pike County, Illinois, warrants and on an original charge of unlawful possession of methamphetamine.

A second person, identified as Jessica M. Lynch, age 29, of Perry was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

All three (3) remain lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On December 18^th, 2021,at 2:40 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Pleasant Hill Police Department, and Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office executed a court-authorized search warrant in the 100 block of Thomas Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, methamphetamine, controlled substances, and methamphetamine-related drug paraphernlia were located and seized.

Arrested as a result of the search warrant was Carrie D. McCurley, age 40, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (3-counts),
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

The investigation is ongoing and further arrests are likely.

*All suspect(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

November 30^th, 2021

On 11-27-21 at 8:04 PM, a report of an ATV Crash on State Highway 96 in New Canton was reported to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department Dispatch Center.A passenger on the ATV sustained injuries due to the crash.

Following an investigation, the driver of the ATV, 34-year-old Timothy R. Swartz of Kinderhook, Illinois was arrested for:

• Aggravated Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
• Leaving the Scene of a Motor Vehicle Accident Involving Personal Injury
• Other Traffic Violations.

Swartz was transported to the Pike County Jail where he was lodged pending a court appearance.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

November 22, 2021

On November 21^st, 2021, at 11:22 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a call stating there was a subject outside setting houses on fire.

Upon the arrival of the initial deputy, he observed the subject running with a gas can that was on fire. As the deputy stopped his vehicle to apprehend the subject, he poured gasoline on a vehicle, which immediately set it on fire.

The Deputy was able to apprehend the subject, identified as 41-year-old Brian D. Morris of Hull Illinois. Morris was later transported to the Pike County Jail, where he is being held awaiting a court appearance. In total, five houses and one vehicle at a separate residence were set on fire, creating six separate crimes scenes. Three of the houses were occupied at the time the fires were set. The only house with significant structural damage from fire belonged to Morris.

Assisting at the scene was the Illinois State Police, Pike County EMS, Hull/Kinderhook Fire Department and the Illinois State Fire Marshall.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

On October 15^th, 2021 at 8:56 P.M., the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a 2011 Ford Fusion in Hardin, Calhoun County, Illinois.  The failed to stop, increased speed, and fled from the officer at speeds over 100 MPH.

The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office pursued the vehicle and notified the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department of the fleeing suspect vehicle.

At 9:10 P.M., the suspect vehicle entered Pleasant Hill at speeds of over 100 MPH.  The vehicle failed to stop for law enforcement.  The suspect vehicle turned northbound on Main Street in Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

Law enforcement officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pleasant Hill Police Department located the suspect vehicle unoccupied in rural Martinsburg, Illinois.

On October 16^th, 2021, the registered owner of the vehicle contacted the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and reported the vehicle had been stolen while parked in Madison County, Illinois.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pleasant Hill Police Department continued the investigation which led to the identity of the suspect.

On October 22^nd, 2021, Drew E. Myers, age 21, of Jerseyville, Illinois turned himself into the Pike County Sheriff’s Department on a Pike County warrant for the offenses of aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, speeding (40+), and reckless driving.

Drew posted bond and was released pending a court appearance.

Criminal charges are pending in Calhoun County for aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, speeding (40+), and reckless driving.

Criminal charges are pending in Madison County for filing a false police report.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by Illinois State Police Crime Scene Services.

*All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On September 29^th, 2021, at 11:35 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop on silver 2020 Toyota passenger car on Franklin Street, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois.

The vehicle failed to stop and a brief pursuit ensued.

The vehicle eventually pulled over near Perry Street at Madison Street.

Subsequent to an investigation, law enforcement officials located a firearm, ammunition, and home-made explosive devices.

The driver was taken into custody and transported to a medical facility.

On September 30^th, 2021, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department followed up with the investigation and conducted a court-authorized search warrant at a residence located on 212^th Avenue, Pearl, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, a firearm, ammunition, methamphetamine, home-made explosive devices, and a computer were seized.

On October 6^th, 2021, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Tanner S. Reed, age 26, of Pearl, Illinois on a no-bond Pike County warrant for the offense of unlawful possession of explosive or incendiary devices.

Reed remains lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The incident remains under investigation and further charges are likely.

The Pittsfield Police Department and Illinois Secretary of State Bomb Squad assisted with the investigation.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On October 4^th, 2021, at 10:51 P.M., the Pleasant Hill Police Department conducted a traffic stop in the 800 block of West Quincy Street on a 2014 Chevrolet truck.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Desirae A. Howland, age 36, of Pittsfield, Illinois was initially arrested on a Pike County, Missouri, Warrant.

Howland was transported to the Pike County Jail where she was found to be in possession of methamphetamine.

Howland was further charged with the following offenses:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Bringing Contraband into a Penal Institution.

Howland remains lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The Pleasant Hill Police Department was assisted by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

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PRESS RELEASE

On October 4^th, 2021, at 7:28 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on a 1998 Mazda on South Main Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation the driver, Lisa M. Dempsey, age 50, of Louisiana, Missouri was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Unlawful Possession of Hypodermic Syringes,
• Unlawful Possession of Adult-Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle,
• Illegal Transportation of Alcohol (Driver),
• Loud Exhaust.

A passenger, Jarred M. Ingram, age 36, of Louisiana, Missouri was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Unlawful Possession of Hypodermic Syringes,
• Unlawful Possession of Adult-Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle,
• Pike County, Illinois, Warrant for Failure to Appear.

Both Dempsey and Ingram are lodged in the Pike County Jail.

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 24, 2021

Three Pike County Men Charged with Sexual Exploitation of a Child

 SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A federal grand jury indicted three men – Anthony M. Westemeyer, Bobby J. Warner, and Michael Wallace – all of Nebo, Illinois – on September 9, 2021 for sexual exploitation of a child. The indictment was unsealed today when the last of the three men, Westemeyer, was arraigned in federal court.

The indictment alleges that in May 2021 the three men caused a minor victim to engage in sexually explicit conduct, which was recorded and stored on a computer.

If convicted, the men face a maximum statutory penalty of 30 years’ imprisonment, followed by a life term of supervised release. Each charge also carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment.

Wallace was arrested in Nebo on September 10, 2021. Warner was arrested in Pittsfield, Illinois, on September 13, 2021. United States Magistrate Judge Tom Schanzle-Haskins ordered that both men be detained pending trial at a related hearing on September 16, 2021. The U.S. Marshals Service lodged a detainer for Westemeyer, who is presently in the custody of the Pike County, Illinois, Sheriff. Judge Schanzle-Haskins also ordered that Westermeyer be detained pending trial at today’s hearing.

Agencies participating in the investigation include U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations; the Illinois Attorney General’s Office; the Pike County Sheriff’s Office; and the Pike County State’s Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah E. Seberger and Tanner K. Jacobs are representing the government in the prosecution.

Anyone with information connected with this investigation is urged to call the Department of Homeland Security Investigations at (217) 547-2100.

Members of the public are reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation; the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide Department of Justice initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department has announced several convictions in Pike County, Illinois for various offenses related to the Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act.

Sheriff David Greenwood said his office has and will continue to aggressively monitor all registered sex offenders in Pike County, Illinois.

The following people have been charged and convicted in Pike County, Illinois.

 

• On February 17^th, 2021, Jane M. Milner, age 50, of Nebo, Illinois was arrested on a charge of violation of the sex offender registration act. On August 24^th, 2021, Milner pled guilty in Pike County Circuit Court to the aforesaid offense and received 24 months conditional discharge and fines.

 

• On May 18^th, 2020, Jason M. Rennecker, age 37, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender. On June 1^st, 2021, Rennecker pled guilty in Pike County Circuit Court to the aforesaid offense and received 24 months-probation, 90 days jail, and fines.

 

• On January 27^th, 2021, Verle E. Gibson, age 42, of Pearl, Illinois was arrested on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender. On August 24^th, 2021, Gibson pled guilty in Pike County Circuit Court to the aforesaid offense and was sentenced to 5 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections and fines.

 

• On October 23^rd, 2020, Roy L. Irick, age 67, of Hull, Illinois was arrested on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender. On September 14^th, 2021, Irick pled guilty in Pike County Circuit Court to the aforesaid offense and was sentenced to 2 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections followed by conditional discharge and fines.

 

• On December 22^nd, 2020, Walter W. Lynn, of Pittsfield, Illinois was arrested on a charge of violation of the sex offender registration act. On June 1^st, 2021, Lynn pled guilty in Pike County Circuit Court to the aforesaid offense was sentenced to 4 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections and fines.

 

• On February 7^th, 2021, Patrick TD Cantwell, age 25, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois was arrested on a charge of violation of the sex offender registration act. On September 9^th, 2021, Cantwell pled guilty in Pike County Circuit Court to the aforesaid offense and was sentenced to 5 ½ years in the Illinois Department of Corrections and fines.

 

On October 28^th, 2020, Gary L. Oberdahlhoff, age 51, of Nebo, Illinois was arrested on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender.  On September 14^th, 2021, Oberdahlhoff pled guilty in Pike County Circuit Court to the aforesaid offense and was sentenced to 2 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections and fines

 

 

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On August 26^th, 2021, at 10:54 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on I-72 near milepost 20.

Subsequent to an investigation, Christy L. Bass, age 43, of Amarillo Texas and Barry C. Washington, age 45, of Hart, Texas were arrested on active warrants out of McLean County, Illinois.  Additionally, Bass and Washington were arrested on new charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, and unlawful possession of hypodermic syringes.

Both Bass and Washington were lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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Press Release

On August 27^th, 2021, at 1:11 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on State Highway 106 near 475^th Street east of Detroit, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Dakota L. Matthews, age 22, of Roodhouse, Illinois was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, and unlawful use of weapon.

Matthews was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On August 27^th, 2021. at 8:22 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed a court-authorized search warrant at 41096 340^th Avenue, Griggsville, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Douglas D. Reese, age 59, of Griggsville, was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of hypodermic syringes, and unlawful possession of firearms by a felon.

Reese was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On August 21^st, 2021, at 12:42 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department investigated a suspicious vehicle parked at Ralph’s Landing.  Subsequent to an investigation, over fifty (50) grams of methamphetamine, suspected Psilocybin Mushrooms, suspected heroin, small plastic baggies, digital scales, fourteen (14) smoking devices, hypodermic syringes, several rounds of ammunition, and three (3) handguns were recovered and seized.

The following individuals were arrested as a result of the investigation:

Ethan L. Miller, age 31, of Pittsfield, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Aggravated Battery to a Police Officer,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Deliver,
• Obstructing Justice,
• Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Unlawful Possession of Hypodermic Syringes,
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon.

A second person, Jeana L. Thomas, age 46, of Louisiana, Missouri was arrested on the following charges:

• Aggravated Unlawful Use of Weapon,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Deliver,
• Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Unlawful Possession of Hypodermic Syringes.

Both Miller and Thomas and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On August 22^nd, 2021, at 11:46 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department with assistance from the West Central Illinois Drug Task Force executed a court authorized search warrant at a residence located in the 700 block of Williams Street, Barry, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation the following individuals were arrested:

Thomas J. Wallace, age 38, of Barry, Illinois was arrested on a charge of unlawful possession of methamphetamine.

Patricia P. Touchette, age 57, of Barry, Illinois was arrested on a charge of unlawful possession of methamphetamine.

Both Wallace and Touchette are lodged in the Pike County Jail.

Additional arrests are pending.

*All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On August 22^nd, 2021, at 4:53 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Zachary N. Schwalb, age 28, of Barry, Illinois after observing Schwalb walking on Decatur Street, Barry, Pike County, Illinois.  Schwalb was taken into custody on an active Pike County warrant.

A subsequent search of Schwalb’s person revealed drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine.

Schwalb was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All subjects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

On August 10^th, 2021, at 4:24 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested John A. Crull, age 36, of Pittsfield, Illinois on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender.

The investigation began on August 7^th, 2021, when law enforcement officials determined Crull was overdue on his sex offender registration.

Crull was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

July 26, 2021

On 07-25-21, at 5:03 PM, the body of 82-year-old Ronald Abney of Hull Illinois was located in a creek bed approximately two miles south of Atlas on State Highway 96 in Pike County Illinois. It appears the vehicle Mr. Abney was operating left the roadway sometime Friday afternoon (07-23-21), where it crashed into the creek bed.

A search was conducted for Mr. Abney following the report of him being missing on Friday evening when he didn’t return home. Mr. Abney’s family along with first responders, neighbors and members of the Pike County Community searched the areas where Mr. Abney was thought to have possibly been, including air searches.

Video surveillance of Mr. Abney’s vehicle was observed near Hardin Illinois and again in Pleasant Hill Illinois Friday afternoon, which assisted in narrowing the area where Mr. Abney may have been.

The Illinois State Police is handling the vehicle crash investigation.

 

Sheriff David Greenwood

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On July 2^nd, 2021, at 12:50 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to County Highway #21 in reference to a possible DUI driver.  The Pike County Sheriff’s Department received multiple calls regarding a possible intoxicated motorist.

Deputies contacted the suspected DUI driver.  Subsequent to an investigation, Emily L. King, age 32, of Pittsfield, Illinois was arrested on charges of driving under the influence of any amount of drug, endangering the life or health of a child, and improper parking on roadway.

King was cited and released pending court appearance.

On July 5^th, 2021, at 8:46 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on State Highway 106 in Barry, Pike County, Illinois on a black 2006 Mitsubishi truck.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Annie M. Brand, age 37, of Oak Lawn, Illinois was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine less than five grams, unlawful use of weapon, and loud exhaust.

Brant was transported and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

 

On July 6^th, 2021, at 10:24 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on N. Madison Street in Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois on a 2011 Ford SUV.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Christina M. Grubb, age 38, of Florissant, Missouri was arrested on charges of driving under the influence of any amount of drug, unlawful possession of methamphetamine, disobeying a traffic control device, and driving in wrong lane.

Grubb was transported and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

*All subjects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 21^st, 2021, at 7:58 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on Decatur Street, Barry, Pike County, Illinois on a blue 2007 Chrysler.

Subsequent to an investigation, Lance R. Dixon, age 34, of Curryville, Missouri was arrested on charges of unlawful possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine (5-15 grams) and unlawful possession of methamphetamine (5-15 grams).

Dixon was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 14^th, 2021, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a complaint of alleged home repair fraud in Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

On June 20^th, 2021, Derek E. Greenwood, age 38, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested on charges of aggravated home repair fraud and theft after a court authorized search warrant was executed at his residence.

Greenwood is lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 11^th, 2021, at 7:20 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on State Highway 96 one mile south of County Highway #10.

Subsequent to an investigation the driver, Amanda N. Moore, age 38, of Michael, Illinois was arrested on charges of:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• DUI (Any Amount of Drug),
• Unlawful Possession of Adult -Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle,
• Failure to Wear Seat Belt.

 

Moore was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

 

On June 10^th, 2021, at 7:36 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, while on routine patrol on Decatur Street, Barry, Pike County, Illinois checked the vehicle registration of a tan colored Chrysler Town and Country Van.  Pike County Dispatch advised the vehicle had been reported stolen out of Madison County, Illinois.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop on said vehicle; however, the vehicle fled from law enforcement.

After a short pursuit, the driver, William J. Kochel, age 35, of Key West, Florida was arrested and taken into custody on the following charges:

• Aggravated Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Peace Officer,
• Unlawful Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle,
• Criminal Damage to State Supported Property,
• Driving While License Revoked,
• Reckless Driving,
• Disobeying a Traffic Control Device (2 counts),
• Speeding,
• Improper Lane Usage.

 

Kochel is lodged in the Pike County Jal.

The Illinois State Police assisted with the investigation.

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PRESS RELEASE

On June 7^th, 2021, at 12:17 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on Hamilton Street near Rodgers Street, Barry, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Danielle L. Slavin, age 28, of Hannibal, Missouri was arrested on charges of driving while license suspended and no rear registration light.

A passenger, Ashley M. Clayton, age 34, of Louisiana, Missouri, was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine, retail theft, and unlawful use of weapon.

A second passenger, John M. Mayfield, age 44, of Monroe City, Missouri was arrested on a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

Both John and Ashley were lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The Illinois State Police assisted with the traffic stop.

Additional charges are pending.

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PRESS RELEASE

 

On June 3^rd, 2021, at 10:26 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department executed a court-authorized search warrant in the 300 block of East Mosier Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Adam L. Crowder, age 32, of Pleasant Hill was arrested on a new charge of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.  Crowder was also arrested on a Pike County warrant for failure to appear on a previous charge of unlawful possession of methamphetamine.

Crowder is lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

 

On June 3^rd, 2021, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed a court-authorized search warrant in the 300 block of South State Street, Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Nicole L. Hare, age 24, and Zachary B. Greenwood, age 29, both of Griggsville were arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Both Hare and Greenwood are lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

 

On June 3^rd, 2021, at 12:53 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department located a suspicious vehicle in the 200 block of Clover Street, Perry, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Lance W. Brockhouse, age 24, of Winchester was arrested on a charge of unlawful possession of methamphetamine.

Brockhouse was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 27^th, 2021 at 1:20 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence in the 500 block of East Bridge Street, Nebo, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Mark T. Westemeyer, age 63, of Nebo, Illinois was arrested on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender (social media account).

Westemeyer was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

Additional charges are pending.

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PRESS RELEASE

05-30-21

 

On 05-29-21 at 5:49 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a call regarding a vehicle crash northeast of Milton near the Illinois River. The reporting party advised the vehicle drove off of an approximate 150-foot bluff, crashing below into water. The crash was on private property. Shortly after the arrival of emergency personnel, the driver of the vehicle, 68-year-old William H. Farnsworth of rural Pittsfield was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash.

Assisting at the scene was the East Pike Fire Department, The Pittsfield Fire Department, Pike County EMS and the Pike County Emergency Management Agency.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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Press Release

On May 31^st, 2021, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received information regarding a motor vehicle that had been stolen out of Lawrence County, Alabama.  The stolen vehicle was originally located in Calhoun County, Illinois by the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office.  The vehicle fled from the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department took over the vehicle pursuit and eventually conducted a PIT maneuver on the fleeing vehicle which disabled the vehicle.

Both the driver and passenger fled from the vehicle on foot.

The driver was taken into custody a short distance away.  A passenger was detained by a private citizen who was providing assistance to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

The driver, a juvenile, was arrested and lodged in the Adams County Youth Home on charges of unlawful possession of a stolen motor vehicle, aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer, no valid driver’s license, and resisting arrest.

The passenger, Jade I. Edwards, age 19, of Nebo was arrested on a Pike County warrant for criminal sexual abuse and on an original charge of resisting or obstructing a peace officer.

The Illinois State Police also assisted with the investigation.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 27^th, 2021, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Stephen R. Howard, age 39, of Baylis, Illinois on fourteen (14) counts of unlawful possession of child pornography and two (2) counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse.

The arrest stems from an on-going two (2) month criminal investigation regarding photographing and videotaping an underaged juvenile.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.

The case remains under investigation and additional charges are likely.

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PRESS RELEASE

 

On May 14^th, 2021 at 12:49 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Street, Nebo, Pike County, Illinois for a domestic disturbance.  The domestic disturbance led to the issuance of a court-authorized search warrant at the aforesaid residence.

Subsequent to an investigation, Bobby J. Warner, age 37, of Nebo, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Aggravated Domestic Battery,
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Criminal Damage to Property.
  

  Warner

Also arrested as a result of the investigation was Michael J. Wallace, age 55, of Nebo, Illinois on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Obstructing Justice.
  

  Wallace

Both Warner and Wallace are lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by the Illinois State Police and Pittsfield Police Department.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 14^th, 2021, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department announces the arrest of David L. Allen, age 48, of Pearl, Illinois on a Pike County warrant for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

The arrest was based on information provided by the public to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department regarding David Allen, a registered sex offender in Pike County, Illinois.  An investigation was conducted and forwarded to the Pike County State’s Attorney’s Office for formal review.

The Pike County State’s Attorney’s approved the charges and issued an arrest warrant for David.

David posted bond and was released pending court appearance.

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PRESS RELEASE

On 05-13-21 shortly after 9:00 PM, law enforcement located a crashed vehicle on I-72 at approximately Mile Post 13. No subjects were located at the scene of the crash. This vehicle is suspected as being driven by the suspect involved in the recent burglary at the Barry Jiffi Stop and Dollar General in Quincy.

A short time later, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department began receiving calls of a male subject knocking on doors in Hull trying to get a ride. Law enforcement began searching Hull and the surrounding area for the subject.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department later received a call from the Quincy Police Department advising the suspect identified as 33-year-old Richard A. Behnke of Coatsburg Illinois was arrested in Quincy. Behnke is suspected of being the person involved in the Burglary at Jiffi Stop in Barry.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 13^th, 2021 at 6:17 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed a court-authorized search warrant in the 600 block of Bridge Street, Nebo, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the execution of said search warrant, Anthony Mark Westemeyer, age 33, of Nebo was arrested on a Pike County warrant and an original charge of unlawful possession of methamphetamine.  Anthony is lodged in the Pike County Jail.

A juvenile was also arrested and charged with unlawful possession of methamphetamine.  The juvenile is in custody at the Adams County Youth Home.

____________

Addition to the press release.

Westemeyer is lodged at the Pike County Jail in lieu of a $380,000 bond.

__________________________________

 

05-12-21

 

PRESS RELEASE

On May 12^th, at 5:29 AM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to the Barry Jiffi Stop following a complaint of a robbery.

During the investigation, it was discovered a white or Hispanic male came into the Barry Jiffi Stop, walked to the cash register, opened it, removed cash and walked out. No contact with store personnel was made.

The same male subject was seen at the New Canton One Stop a short time later. See attached surveillance photographs.

The Quincy Police Department is also investigating a similar incident that occurred today at a business in Quincy, which may be related to the Pike County Incidents.

This investigation is still very much ongoing. If you have any information regarding this incident, please call the Pike County Sheriff’s Department at 217-285-5011 or Pike County Crime Stoppers at 217 285-1500. Crime Stoppers is an anonymous way to report crime. If the information you provide leads to the arrest of the person involved, you will be eligible for a cash reward.

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 6, 2021

 For Information, Contact:

Chief Deputy Zack Orr

(217) 285-5011

pikesheriffil@pikecountysd.org

  

To the People of Pike County, IL – The Pike County Sheriff’s Department announces it issued citations or made arrest during the campaign enforcement for ten handsfree law violations, one DUI (drugs), four other criminal arrest, and other various citations were issued during the April distracted driving enforcement period.

 

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department joined forces with state and local law enforcement and highway safety partners for this enforcement effort.

 

Using your phone in anything other than handsfree mode in Illinois is not only dangerous, it is illegal. Break the cycle. Drop It and Drive.

 

The Illinois distracted driving campaign is funded with federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

 

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Press Release

On May 6^th, 2021 at 10:05 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed a court-authorized at a residence located in the 300 block of East Second Street, Baylis, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Anna M. Sutton, age 33, of Quincy, Illinois was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine, obstructing justice, and unlawful possession of hypodermic syringes.  The charge of obstructing justice was added due to her attempting to destroy evidence.

Also arrested was Cory E. Sutton, age 38, of Quincy, Illinois was arrested on a charge of unlawful possession of methamphetamine.

Both Cory and Anna are currently lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On May 6^th, 2021 at 1:26 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on State Highway 107 south of Griggsville, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Buffy N. Burbridge, age 27, of Griggsville, Illinois was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine Less Than Five (5) Grams,
• Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (Fentanyl),
• Unlawful Possession of Adult-Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle by a Driver.

 

Buffy is lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department announces the arrest of Evan C. Bright, age 38, Homeless, on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle,
• Obstructing Justice,

 

On April 26^th, 2021 at 11:47 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on County Highway #4 at the entrance to the Barry Travel Plaza, Barry, Pike County, Illinois.  Subsequent to an investigation, the vehicle had been reported stolen out of Marshall. Illinois.

Bright was taken into custody without incident.

Further investigation revealed that Bright had allegedly stole cars from Terre Haute, Indiana as well as Marshall, Illinois.  Bright appeared to have fresh injuries.  It was discovered that Bright sustained the injuries after fleeing from the police and crashing a different stolen vehicle prior to being stopped in Pike County, Illinois.

Bright is lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The Illinois State Police assisted with the investigation.

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PRESS RELEASE

On April 14^th, 2021 at 9:56 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on Washington Street near West Street in Pittsfield, Illinois.  Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Robert E. Willlbanks, age 52, of Griggsville was arrested on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine,
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
• Unlawful Possession of Adult-Use Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle,
• Driving Under the Influence,
• Electronic Communication Device.

 

Willbanks was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.  Willbanks’s bond has been set at $50,000.

The Pittsfield Police Department assisted with the investigation.

Willbanks was previously arrested on March 8^th, 2021 by the Pittsfield Police Department for unlawful possession of methamphetamine.

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Press Release

On March 25^th, 2021, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Pleasant Hill Police Department, and Pittsfield Police Department responded to several reports of graffiti spray painted on businesses throughout Pleasant Hill and Pittsfield.

Subsequent to an investigation, it was discovered there were similar crimes throughout Calhoun County, Illinois.

On March 25^th, 2021, William A. Friedel, age 64, of Hamburg, Illinois was arrested at Lambert Airport in St. Louis, Missouri on a Calhoun County, Illinois felony arrest warrant.

Friedel was extradited back to Illinois and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

Friedel faces five (5) counts of criminal defacement of property in Pike County, Illinois.

The incident is still under investigation and additional charges are pending.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

03-25-21

On Wednesday, March 24^th, Deputies with the Pike County Sheriff’s Department along with the West Central Illinois Drug Task force and the Pleasant Hill Police Department executed a court authorized search warrant at 309 East Mosier Street in Pleasant Hill. During the execution of the search warrant, 32-year-old Adam L. Crowder and 29-year-old Heather L. Crowder of Pleasant Hill were arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Heather Crowder was also arrested on an outstanding Pike County Illinois Arrest Warrant.

Both subjects were transported to the Pike County Jail where they were lodged awaiting a court appearance.

Sheriff David Greenwood

_

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PRESS RELEASE

 

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department will be auctioning off four cars and one motorcycle using a silent auction method. Each vehicle is to be auctioned separately and do have reserves. All bids will need to be received at the Pike County Sheriff’s Department no later than March 29^th, 2021 at 12:00 Noon. The bids will be opened at 12:15 PM. The auctions will be awarded to the highest bidders. Payment of the vehicles will need to be made at the time the vehicle is picked up. If the vehicle is not picked up by Noon on April 1^st, 2021 the vehicle will be sold to the next highest bidder.

Bid Sheets can be picked up at the Pike County Sheriff’s Department starting on March 10^th, 2021.

 

The following vehicles will be auctioned AS IS, WITH NO WARRANTY. All vehicles do run, but may need to be jump started when picked up since they have sat idle for a period of time.

• White, 2012 Yamaha FZ1 Motorcycle. Mileage: 5044
• 
• Black, 2014 Ford Explorer (Used Squad). Mileage: 152500
• 
• Tan, 2003 Ford Taurus. Mileage: 133895
• 
• White, 2005 Cadillac Escalade. Mileage: 158888
• 
• Gray, 2015 Nissan Rogue. Mileage: 91553
• 

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On March 1^st, 2021 at 10:38 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and West Central Illinois Drug Task Force conducted two (2) court-authorized search warrants simultaneously in the Village of Nebo, Pike County, Illinois.

The first search warrant was served at a residence located at 525 E. Park Street, Nebo, Illinois.  Subsequent to the execution of the search warrant the following individuals were arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail:

Bobby J. Warner, age 37, of Nebo, Illinois

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Wanted on Warrant Pike County, Illinois for Probation Violation
• Wanted on Warrant Calhoun County, Illinois for Probation Violation

Laura M. Bequette, age 58, of Nebo, Illinois

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Wanted on Warrant Pike County, Illinois for Failure to Appear at Arraignment on two (2) counts of Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine.

The second search warrant was served at a residence located at 510 E. Park Street, Nebo, Illinois.  Subsequent to the execution of the search warrant the following individuals were arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail:

Katherine J. Durham, age 51, of Nebo, Illinois

 

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine
• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Wanted on Warrant Pike County, Illinois for Failure to Pay

Heather L. Crowder, age 29, of Nebo, Illinois  ( NO PICTURE)

• Wanted on Warrant Pike County, Illinois for Failure to Appear on a charge of Criminal Damage to Property and four (4) counts of Driving While License Suspended.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

 03-01-21

 The Pike County Sheriff’s Department recently received an anonymous donation of $13,000 from a citizen of Pike County for the completion of purchasing body cameras for all the deputies.

This donation, along with all others for this project removes the burden from Pike County tax payers from at least a portion of the never-ending unfunded mandates coming from the state.

The support law enforcement in Pike County receives from its citizens is greatly appreciated, especially when we see the goings on and lack of the same support in some areas around the country.

Thank You

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE:   03-01-2021

On February 16^th, 2021 at 7:54 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on County Highway #3 on a white 2002 Chevrolet truck.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Larry J. Lierly, age 38, of Clayton, Illinois was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine less than five (5) grams, DUI (any amount of drug), and improper use of registration.

Lierly was transported and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE:  03-01-2021

On December 26th, 2020, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department initiated a Violation of the Illinois Sex Offender investigation in the 100 block of South Main Street, Nebo, Pike County, Illinois.
A formal report was submitted to the Pike County State’s Attorney’s Office for review. The Pike County State’s Attorney’s Office was able to secure an arrest warrant for Milner for offense of failure to register or report a change of address as a sex offender.
On February 17th, 2021 at 7:10 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Milner at her residence in Nebo, Illinois.
Milner was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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Illinois Law Enforcement Coalition issues statement after Governor signs Law enforcement criminal justice legislation 

SPRINGFIELD – A coalition representing Illinois law enforcement leadership and rank-and-file officers has issued a statement about Governor J.B. Pritzker’s signing of the law enforcement and criminal justice legislation that passed the Illinois General Assembly during the Lame Duck Session:

“In signing this bill into law, Governor Pritzker chose to listen to a few strident political voices rather than the 120,000 petition signing citizens who plainly saw the bill for what it is. This new law is a blatant move to punish an entire, honorable profession that will end up hurting law-abiding citizens the most. Because we are sworn to protect and serve the public, we sincerely hope that we will not be proven right about this new law, that it won’t cause police officers to leave the profession in droves and handcuff those who remain so they can’t stop crimes against people and property. Please don’t let us measure its dismal failure by the shattered lives it produces. We urge all citizens to remember who supported this law, and keep that in mind the next time they look to the police in Illinois for the protection they can no longer provide.”

 

            The Illinois Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) State Lodge, FOP Labor Council, FOP Chicago Lodge 7, Illinois Sheriffs’ Association and the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police have formed the Illinois Law Enforcement Coalition and have been working on these strategies since summer to improve community safety and enhance the trust between community members and law enforcement.

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PRESS RELEASE

02-20-21

During the early morning hours of Saturday, February 20, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was requested to assist the Louisiana Missouri Police Department in a vehicle pursuit that had crossed into Illinois.

The pursuit ended on 236^th Street off of State Highway 96 in Pleasant Vale Township. Following the pursuit, James M. Lederle of Louisiana Missouri was shot by a Louisiana Missouri Police Officer. Lederle sustained a non-life-threatening injury and refused medical treatment at the scene. Lederle is being lodged in the Pike County Illinois Jail pending extradition to Missouri. Lederle is also wanted on a Pike County Illinois Warrant and a parole warrant out of Missouri.

This investigation is still ongoing and is being investigated by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department with assistance from Illinois State Police Crime Scene Investigations.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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02-09-21

 Following an extensive investigation of the death of 23-year-old, Nathan Embree of Griggsville Illinois, it has been determined that the death was completely natural in manner.

Embree was found deceased on the side of a road on January 13^th, 2021 in Griggsville Illinois.

 

Sheriff David Greenwood

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On February 5^th, 2021 at 6:03 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on a maroon colored 2000 Ford Explorer on Monroe Street near Washington Street, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to the traffic stop, the driver fled in the vehicle from the scene of the traffic stop.  The Pike County Sheriff’s Department initiated a pursuit.  The Pike County Sheriff’s Department pursued the vehicle to the area of Detroit, Illinois where the suspect vehicle eventually turned around and traveled back westbound towards Pittsfield, Illinois.

The Deputy Sheriff terminated the pursuit just east of Pittsfield due to safety reasons.

A Pittsfield Police Department Officer was able to observe the suspect vehicle traveling on Clarksville Road, Pittsfield, Illinois.

At 6:30 P.M., the Pleasant Hill Police Department located the suspect vehicle traveling south on County Highway #11.  The Pleasant Hill Police Department pursued the suspect vehicle.  The suspect vehicle drove through residential neighborhoods and the Pike County Fairgrounds in Pleasant Hill before eventually traveling northbound on State Highway 96.

The Pleasant Hill Police Department and Pike County Sheriff’s Department pursued the suspect into the State of Missouri.

Missouri law enforcement officials were successfully able to utilize spike strips.  The suspect pulled over and the suspect was taken into custody on US 54 near Bowling Green, Missouri.

The suspect is identified as Rahman S. Henson, age 39, of East St. Louis, Illinois.  Rahman is currently on mandatory release from the Illinois Department of Corrections.  Rahman was arrested and lodged in the Pike County, Missouri, Jail on charges of Class A felony assault in the first degree, Class E felony resisting arrest, Driving While License Revoked, and other traffic charges.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department has submitted the following charges to the Pike County State’s Attorney’s Office:

• Aggravated Fleeing or Eluding a Peace Officer,
• Felony Driving While License Revoked,
• Obstructing Justice,
• Numerous traffic charges.

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On February 7^th, 2021 at 9:32 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Illinois State Police arrested Patrick T.D. Cantwell, age 25 of Pleasant Hill, Illinois on a Pike County warrant for failure to register as a sex offender and knowingly provide false information as a sex offender.

The arrest took place at Patrick’s residence located on 150^th Avenue, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

The investigation began when the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a sex offender compliance check on Patrick.

Patrick was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

Additional criminal charges are likely.

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On January 27^th, 2021 at 11:41 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Verle E. Gibson, age 42, of Pearl, Illinois on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department initiated an investigation after Verle failed to register as a sex offender as required.  Verle was arrested at his residence located on 145^th Avenue, Pearl, Pike County, Illinois.

Verle was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

 01-29-21

 On Thursday, January 28^th at 10:31 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to West Middle Street in Nebo regarding a reported shooting.

Upon arrival, it was discovered that a male subject was shot in the leg by another male subject. The victim of the gunshot wound was airlifted to St. John’s Hospital in Springfield and released a short time later.

The investigation is still verry much ongoing.

Assisting at the scene was the Illinois State Police, the Spring Creek and Pleasant Hill Fire Departments and Pike County EMS.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

January 15, 2021

ILLINOIS SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION

ANNOUNCES SCHOLARSHIPS

 

The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association announces that it will be awarding over $58,000 in college scholarships throughout the State of Illinois to students wishing to pursue higher education during the 2021-2022 academic year. The scholarships are to be applied to tuition, books and fees only. The student must be enrolled full-time at a certified institution of higher learning within the State of Illinois, full-time online learning is acceptable.

Pike County Sheriff David Greenwood will be awarding a scholarship in the amount of $500.00

There will be no restriction on any applicant by reason of race, age, creed, color, sex or national origin. The only limitations are as follows:

• Applicants must be permanent Illinois residents
• Scholarships must be utilized at institutions of higher learning within the

State of Illinois

• Students must be enrolled as a full-time student during the 2021-2022

school year (excluding summer session).

Applications are now available at the Pike County Sheriff’s office or on the ISA Website https://www.ilsheriff.org/youth-2/  Students must complete the application; answer the essay question and return all documentation to the Pike County Sheriff’s Office by March 15, 2021 (must be postmarked by this date).  For more information, please contact the Pike County Sheriff’s office, Illinois Sheriffs’ Association, high school advising center or college financial aid office.

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PRESS RELEASE :

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the death of 23 year old Nathan J. Embree of Griggsville Illinois. Embree was found unresponsive lying in a ditch on Liberty Street in Griggsville on January 13th.

An autopsy is scheduled for January 14th.

The investigation is ongoing. If anyone has information regarding this case, which includes if you saw Mr. Embree walking in Griggsville between 10:00 AM and Noon on the 13th, please call the Pike County Sheriff’s Department at 217-285-5011.

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PRESS RELEASE

Ron Troxell Arrest

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department announces the arrest of Ron R. Troxell, age 54, of Baylis on a Pike County warrant for participation in a holiday event by a child sex offender and obstructing justice.

The incident began in October of 2019 in Barry, Illinois when it was reported that Troxell was present during a holiday event where children were present.  Troxell, a registered sex offender from Adams County, Illinois was taken into custody on a Pike County warrant at a business located in Pittsfield, Illinois.

Troxell posted $12,000 bond and was released pending a court appearance.

Brandon Fox Sentencing

On January 5^th, 2020, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department announces that Brandon M. Fox, age 41, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois was sentenced to twelve (12) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for methamphetamine related offenses.

The case began on September 9^th, 2020 when Pleasant Hill Chief of Police Zack Orr conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle Fox was driving.  During the traffic stop, Fox was found to be in possession of over five (5) grams of methamphetamine.

On November 23^rd, 2020, Chief Orr followed-up with the investigation and executed a court- authorized search warrant in the 200 block of Clinton Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

During the execution of said warrant, methamphetamine was located and seized.  Fox was arrested during the search warrant and charged with unlawful possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine, unlawful possession of methamphetamine, and a no-bond Wayne County, Missouri Probation Violation warrant.

Sydney Little Sentencing

On January 5^th, 2020, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department announces that Sydney P. Little, age 32, of Griggsville, Illinois was sentenced to nine (9) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for methamphetamine related offenses.

The investigation began in late August of 2020, when the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pittsfield Police Department received information about Sydney and others being involved in the manufacture of methamphetamine.

Throughout the following months, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pittsfield Police Department conducted countless interviews, seized a “shake and bake” meth lab, obtained pseudoephedrine logs, and executed court-authorized search warrants relating to the manufacture of methamphetamine.

Little pled guilty to unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful participation in methamphetamine manufacturing.

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PRESS RELEASE

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department announces the arrest of Stephanie A. Grimsley, age 31, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois.

On December 31^st, 2020, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a complaint that Stephanie Grimsley had fraudulently used a debit card belonging to another person at a local Pike County business.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a criminal investigation and collected evidence through statements and video surveillance footage.

At 11:50 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on Stephanie on Car Street in Pleasant Hill, Illinois.

Stephanie was arrested on a Pike County warrant for unlawful possession of methamphetamine and on a second Pike County warrant for failure to appear.

Furthermore, Stephanie was charged with the original offenses of felony theft, unlawful possession of debit/credit card, and unlawful use of debit/credit card.

Stephanie remains lodged in the Pike County Jail in lieu of $40,000 bond.

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PRESS RELEASE

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department announces the arrest of Walter W. Lynn, age 45, of Pearl, Illinois for the offense of failure to register as a sex offender.

On December 22^nd, 2020 at 1:30 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Walter Lynn at a residence located in the 200 block of West Clare Avenue, Pittsfield, Pike County, Illinois.

The investigation began when law enforcement officials received information Walter was residing at a residence that he had not registered on his sex offender registration.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department takes these violations very serious and will pursue all violations with the proper priority.

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SCAM PRESS RELEASE

  12-14-20

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department has received complaints regarding three different types of scams in that last couple weeks.

The first scam to mention is parishioners from local churches are receiving messages, either by text message or email claiming the message is from the pastor of their church. In the message, the pastor is stating they are in need of immediate funds and requests you send money to them. DO NOT respond to this. It is a scam. Once the money is sent, it cannot be recovered.

The second is a phone hacking scam. Local residents are being contacted either by phone call or text message from someone stating they are from your phone carrier or major software company and advises there is something wrong with your phone that needs to be corrected. They ask you to download an app. This app gives them the ability to take over your phone and access anything you have on your phone including banking, credit cards, etc. Once the App is on your phone, you cannot remove it. They move fast and before you realize what happened and turn you phone off, your bank account, credit card accounts and other accounts like Walmart and Amazon are already hit. Do not respond to them and immediately delete any such message.

The third is not actually a scam, but an offer to buy your land at a very reduced price. Most people who are receiving these are via regular mail. The letter asks you to sign the document and send it back or it directs you to their website and asks you to enter a code that appears on your letter. You can tear up or shred these letters and not respond unless you want to sell your land at a very reduced cost.

Always feel free to call the Pike County Sheriff’s Department if you have any questions regarding any suspicious correspondence you receive.

Sheriff David Greenwood.

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PRESS RELEASE

 

December 7, 2020

 

On 12-06-20, The Crossing Church presented seventy donated towels to the Pike County Jail. The Crossing has a ministry called The Crossing Inside where representatives from the Pike County Crossing Campus come to the Pike County Jail to minister to the inmates on a weekly basis. Other churches in the community also have similar ministries, ministering to the inmates here in Pike County.

Due to the Covid19 pandemic, churches have not been able to come into the Pike County Jail for fear of introducing the virus into our jail population. The Crossing said this is a way to minister to the inmates without being able to come in and showing them they are still being thought about and prayed for.

I would like to thank the Crossing for their donation of the towels. These towels are nicer than the towels inmates usually receive and assists the Pike County Jail with its budget for purchasing supplies.

Sheriff David Greenwood

 

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On November 23^rd, 2020, law enforcement officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department executed a court-authorized search warrant in the 200 block of W. Howard Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Brandon M. Fox, age 41, of Piedmont, Missouri was arrested on the following charges:

• Wayne County, Missouri, probation violation warrant (No bond),
• Pike County, Illinois, arrest warrant for unlawful possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving while license revoked,
• Pike County, Illinois, bench warrant for failure to appear at payment review,
• Original charge of unlawful possession of methamphetamine,
• Original charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Fox was transported and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

The Pike County Illinois Courthouse will be closed this week for all in-person court due to some employees testing positive for COVID19. The offices will remain open with limited staff, but you must have an appointment to enter the building. If you must make a payment to the Circuit Clerk’s Office, the transaction can take place at the security area

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PRESS RELEASE

11-19-20

On 11-17-20 at 8:47 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to the report of an ATV crash on the 500 block of North Union Street in Griggsville Illinois.

The driver of the ATV, 44-year old Jonathon Goertz of Griggsville, was airlifted to St. John’s Hospital in Springfield Illinois, from the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash. The passenger, 60-year-old Janet L. Tedrow of Griggsville, was pronounced dead at the scene following attempted life saving measures.

Goertz was cited for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol, Operating a Non-Highway Vehicle on the street and No Valid Drivers License.

A joint investigation into the crash between the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and the Illinois State Police is still ongoing.

Assisting at the scene were personnel from Pike County EMS, The Griggsville Fire Department, The North Pike Fire Department, The Pittsfield Police Department, The Illinois State Police and the Pike County Coroner’s Office.

 

PRESS RELEASE

On October 26^th, 2020, Kyle Pressnall, age 35, of Pleasant Hill, was sentenced in Pike County and Calhoun County Circuit Court to eight (8) years (concurrent) in the Illinois Department of Corrections followed by thirty (30) months of felony probation.

Pressnall pled guilty to one (1) count of residential burglary, three (3) counts of burglary, one (1) count of theft over $500.00, and one (1) count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon in Calhoun County, Illinois.

Pressnall pled guilty to one (1) count of burglary and one (1) count of unlawful possession of methamphetamine in Pike County, Illinois.

The investigation was a joint investigation between the Pike and Calhoun County Sheriff’s Departments.

The investigation began when law enforcement officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle Pressnall was operating.  Pressnall fled from the traffic stop at a high rate of speed.  The pursuit was eventually terminated due to safety reasons in northern Calhoun County, Illinois.

For the next several days, law enforcement officials searched for Pressnall eventually locating him in southern Pike County, Illinois.

An investigation revealed that Pressnall committed multiple burglaries and thefts along southern Pike County and northern Calhoun County.

Pressnall cooperated with the investigation which allowed law enforcement officials to recover most of the property that was stolen.

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PRESS RELEASE

November 5, 2020

 

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department has been receiving numerous reports from citizens receiving letters from the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) advising Unemployment Benefits have been issued in their name. If you receive one of these documents and have not filed for Unemployment Benefits, please contact the Sheriff’s Department to make a report. You may also email the report to pikesheriffil@pikecountysd.org. This may be necessary in case IDES contacts you and requests a police report number.

Always remember to be very cautious to whom you provide personal information to.

 

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

On October 30^th, 2020 at 5:03 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a two-vehicle accident on County Highway 8 approx. one (1) mile east of County Highway 7.

It was determined, Randall K. Baughman, age 64, of Pittsfield, Illinois was traveling eastbound on County Highway #8 in a maroon 2001 Chevrolet extended cab truck.  For unknown reasons, Baughman crossed the center line and struck a 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis driven by George E. Ehrheart, age 71, of Pittsfield.

Both Baughman and Ehrheart were pronounced dead at the scene.

A passenger in the vehicle driven by Ehrheart, Margaret A. Shaver, age 41, of Pittsfield, was transported by Pike County EMS to Illini Community Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

Assisting with the accident was the Illinois State Police Accident Reconstruction Unit, Pike County EMS, Pittsfield Fire Department, East Pike Fire Department, Air Evac, the Pike County Coroner’s Office and the Illini Hospital Nursing Staff.

The accident remains under investigation.

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PRESS RELEASE

On October 28^th, 2020 at 6:30 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a sex offender compliance check in Nebo, Pike County, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, Gary L. Oberdahlhoff, age 51, of Nebo was arrested on charges of failure to register as a sex offender and child sex offender residing within five hundred (500) feet from a public park.

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 PRESS RELEASE

Chief Deputy Zachary Orr of the Pike County Sheriff’s Department announces the arrest of Roy Lee Irick, age 67, of Hull, Illinois on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender and violation of probation for an original charge of failure to register as a sex offender.

Irick, who has a history of sex offender violations, was arrested on Friday, October 23^rd, 2020 at his residence in the 200 block of Sweet Street, Hull, Illinois.  Irick was arrested, transported, and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

Irick was convicted in Pike County, Illinois in 2016 for failure to register as a sex offender.  Irick received felony probation.

Irick was again convicted in 2018 for failure to register as a sex offender.  Irick was re-sentenced to probation along with jail time.

Irick is still on felony probation during this current arrest.

Chief Deputy Zachary Orr said he is responsible for keeping track of registered sex offenders that reside in Pike County, Illinois.  Chief Deputy Orr said he routinely checks registered sex offenders to ensure they live at the address which was registered.  Chief Deputy Orr says the Pike County Sheriff’s Department staff does an excellent job in notifying me when a registered sex offender is non-compliant.

Chief Deputy Orr said he currently monitors fifty-one (51) registered sex offenders in Pike County, Illinois.

If the public would like to see the list of registered sex offenders or violent towards youth offenders, they can do so by visiting the Illinois State Police homepage and clicking on the sex offender registry.

 

 

PRESS RELEASE

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department announces the issuance of an arrest warrant for Stephen Edward Mullins, age 49, of Sewell, New Jersey, for the offense of armed robbery, aggravated robbery, and theft over $500.00.

During the early morning hours of October 16^th, 2019, a masked gunman entered Jiffi Stop in Barry, Pike County, Illinois and stole United States Currency, cigarettes, and lottery tickets.

The masked gunman fled Jiffi Stop in an unknown direction of travel.

Throughout the investigation, it was discovered the suspect parked in a car wash bay across the street from Barry Jiffi Stop.  Surveillance video was obtained showing the suspect.  Photographs of the suspect released to the media.  However, no credible information was obtained about the suspect’s identity.

On September 30^th, 2020, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received notification from the Illinois State Police Division of Forensic Science which identified the suspect as Stephen Edward Mullins due to a DNA hit.

Law enforcement was able to track Steven Mullins to the Elbert County Jail in the State of Colorado.

Law enforcement officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department traveled to Elbert County, Colorado where law enforcement was able to obtain police reports from other law enforcement agencies and to interview Mullins.

Mullins currently has criminal charges pending in the following jurisdictions:

• Stanton County, Kansas-motor vehicle theft and aggravated assault,
• Lincoln County, Colorado-Vehicular evading, possession of a firearm by a felon, criminal mischief, violation of protection order (7 counts), resisting arrest, DUI, reckless endangerment, burglary, and theft.
• Elbert County, Colorado-Burglary, and motor vehicle theft.

Sheriff David Greenwood commended his staff, specifically Sergeant Matt Frazier and Chief Deputy Zachary Orr, for their attention to detail during the criminal investigation.   Sheriff Greenwood said that during the initial Crime Scene Investigation, Sergeant Frazier located a very small item which contained the suspect’s DNA which ultimately was used to identify the suspect. Chief Deputy Orr was relentless leading this investigation to bring it to the place it is now.  Sheriff Greenwood said his department was able to track Mullins throughout the State of Illinois as he attempted to scan stolen lottery tickets.

The evidence in this case was ultimately submitted to the Pike County State’s Attorney, Zachary Boren who filed charges and obtained a warrant for the arrest of Mullins.

“Hats off to the Sheriff’s Department for tracking this one down,” said Boren. “We look forward to getting Mr. Mullins back to Pike County to face these charges.”

Parts of this investigation are still ongoing.

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  PRESS RELEASE

On September 22^nd, 2020 at 3:28 P.M., Pike County 911 received a call about a single vehicle accident located on County Highway #10 approx. one mile east of State Highway 96.  The caller reported a passenger was thrown from the vehicle and the driver was entrapped in the vehicle.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department handled the traffic crash investigation.  Subsequent to an investigation, it appeared the vehicle described as a 1998 Chevrolet SUV was traveling westbound on County Highway #10 and for unknown reasons the vehicle ran off of the roadway on the north side of the road and struck a tree ejecting the passenger from the vehicle.  The driver was partially ejected from the vehicle.

The driver, Jose Luis Parra Palma, age 30, of Monroe City, Missouri was pronounced dead on scene.

The passenger, Felipe Galan Almaraz, age 30, of Monroe City, Missouri was airlifted by Air Evac to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.  Felipe is in serious condition.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by:

• Illinois State Police,
• Pike County Coroner’s Office,
• Spring Creek Fire Department,
• Pleasant Hill Fire Department,
• Pittsfield Fire Department,
• Pike County Ambulance Service,
• Air Evac.

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Press Release

On September 15^th, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department went to a rural Nebo address to make contact with 31-year-old, Kyle B. Smith of Nebo regarding an outstanding arrest warrant. As the Deputies pulled up to the residence, they observed Smith exit the rear of his house, get into a vehicle and drive away through the yard and onto a rural lane. A pursuit ensued on the lane and into a bean field. Smith’s vehicle eventually came to a stop in the bean field due to an apparent mechanical disruption. Smith exited his vehicle and fled on foot. After a short foot pursuit, Smith was taken into custody utilizing an electronic control device. Besides the active Pike County Warrant, Smith was also arrested for Fleeing to Attempt to Elude Police, Resisting Arrest and Criminal Damage to Property. Smith was later charged with Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, Providing False Information by a Sex Offender and Obstruction of Justice. Smith is presently lodged at the Pike County Jail in Lieu of $105,000 bond.

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Press Release

 

On 08-21-20, at 7:05 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a report of two motorcycles crashing in the eastbound lanes of I-72 on the east side of the Mark Twain Bridge in Pike County. The crash involved one motorcycle making contact with rear of another, causing both to crash.

It was reported that both motorcycles were traveling at a high rate of speed, passing vehicles in traffic and may have been racing. It was also reported that a third motorcycle was involved but left the scene.

Twenty-four-year-old Garrett Smith of Barry was transported to Hannibal Regional Hospital from injuries sustained in the crash. Thirty-six-year-old Patrick Silman of Barry was treated on scene and released.

The operator of the third reported motorcycle was located a few minutes after the crash and questioned.

The circumstances of the crash are still under investigation, with possible charges pending.

Assisting at the scene was the Pike County EMS, Hull-Kinderhook Fire Department and Marion County Missouri Fire and EMS.

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Press Release

On 08-12-20 at 4:55 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to an ATV crash near State Highway 96 in rural New Canton. A 14-year-old subject was reportedly injured with possible broken legs.

New Canton Fire Department along with Hull Kinderhook Fire Department, Pike County EMS and Survival Flight also responded to the scene.

 

On 08-14-20 at 4:35 AM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a single vehicle, rollover crash on East Mississippi Street in New Canton Illinois. The vehicle operated by 37-year-old Jennifer Erke of Barry Illinois, left the roadway, struck a utility pole and rolled over.

Erke was arrested for Failing to Reduce Speed to Avoid a Crash, Driving While License is Suspended and Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol.

Assisting at the scene was Pike County EMS, The New Canton Fire Department and the Hull/Kinderhook Fire Department. Ameren Electric and Frontier also responded to the scene to restore utility service.

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Joint Press Release

Pike County Sheriff’s Department/Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office

On July 22^nd, 2020, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence located in the 400 block of Mill Street in Milton, Pike County, Illinois in reference to a burglary, theft, and methamphetamine investigation.

Upon law enforcement’s arrival at the residence, Kyle A. Pressnall, age 34, of Pleasant Hill was seen leaving the residence.  A Pike County Deputy Sheriff attempted to initiate a traffic stop on Pressnall due to Pressnall having an active arrest warrant.  Pressnall failed to stop for the Deputy Sheriff and fled from the Deputy at speeds over 100 MPH.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department terminated the pursuit due to safety concerns around Panther Creek, Calhoun County, Illinois.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office worked together throughout the next several days in an attempt to locate Pressnall.  Pressnall, in addition to the arrest warrant, was a suspect in burglary and theft cases throughout Pike and Calhoun Counties.

Pressnall’s vehicle was recovered from a field between Crooked Creek Road and State Highway 96 in Calhoun County, Illinois.

With the assistance of Illinois State Police Air Operations and local citizens, law enforcement officials continued to search for Pressnall over the next several days.

On July 27^th, 2020, Kyle was taken into custody at a residence on Bee Creek, Pearl, Pike County, Illinois by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

Subsequent to an investigation, it was determined Pressnall committed several burglaries and thefts in the northern part of Calhoun County and the southern part of Pike County.

Throughout the investigation, it was determined Pressnall unlawfully entered sheds and residences stealing a Kubota diesel RTV, chainsaws, tools, pole saws, fuel, a firearm, and food.

Law enforcement officials are currently attempting to recover the stolen property.

Most of the property had been pawned at pawn shops located in Jerseyville, Illinois, Louisiana, Missouri, Bowling Green, Missouri, Mexico, Missouri, and Jacksonville, Illinois.

The Pike and Calhoun Sheriff’s Offices are working closely with the State’s Attorney’s Office to have the appropriate charges filed.

Pressnall is currently lodged in the Pike County Jail on charges of:

• Pike County Warrant (Failure to Appear at Sentencing),
• Burglary (Pike County, Illinois)
• Theft Over $500.00 (Pike County, Illinois)
• Burglary (Calhoun County, Illinois)
• Theft Over $500.00 (Calhoun County, Illinois).

Additional charges are pending.

The incident remains under investigation by the Pike and Calhoun County Sheriff’s Departments.

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Press Release

On July 18th, 2020 at 7:03 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a residential burglary complaint between New Hartford and Summer Hill, Illinois.  The victim was able to provide a description of the suspect(s) and the suspect’s vehicle.

An alert Pittsfield Police Department officer located the suspect vehicle traveling through Pittsfield, Illinois.  The Pittsfield Police Department conducted a traffic stop on said vehicle.

The driver, Paul M. Ely, age 30, of Chicago, Illinois was originally arrested by the Pittsfield Police Department on charges of aggravated driving while license revoked, unlawful possession of a controlled substance, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

During the course of the investigation, items were in the vehicle that had previously been reported stolen during residential burglaries.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department charged Paul Ely with additional charges of residential burglary, theft over $500.00, and an Illinois Department of Corrections parole violation warrant.

Paul remains lodged in the Pike County Jail.

Illinois State Police Crime Scene Services assisted with the investigation.

On 07-19-20 at 7:08 AM, a Pike County Sheriff’s Deputy was dispatched to a one car vehicle crash on State Highway 106 near Barry Illinois. The driver of the vehicle (27-year-old Levi C. Cain of Quincy Illinois) was transported from the crash scene to Illini Hospital via ambulance. While at the hospital, Cain left against medical advice and before law enforcement could get to the hospital.

During the crash investigation, it was learned that the crashed vehicle was stolen from Quincy.

A search in the area around Illini Hospital ensued for Cain. Cain was observed on foot by citizens and law enforcement. Cain continued evading police. During this time, Cain stole a vehicle form Pittsfield. The vehicle was observed driving north of Pittsfield on County Highway Three by law enforcement. A pursuit began, traveling through northern areas of Pike County, into Adams County and was terminated near Quincy.

Cain is presently wanted on a Pike County Arrest Warrant and an Adams County Arrest Warrant. More charges are expected following this incident. If you know the whereabouts of Cain, please call the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

You may also call the Pike County Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 217-285-1500. You can remain anonymous. If the information you provide leads to the arrest of Cain, you may be eligible for a cash reward.

On July 19^th, 2020 at 10:22 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to the 100 block of Morris Street in New Salem, Illinois in reference to a domestic disturbance.

Subsequent to an investigation, Charles D. Ostrander, age 43, of New Salem was arrested on a charge of domestic battery.

Charles was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

On July 19^th, 2020 at 6:08 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pittsfield Police Department executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence in the 600 block of North Illinois Street, Pittsfield, Illinois.

Subsequent to execution of said search warrant methamphetamine, cannabis, and firearms and located and seized.

The following subjects were arrested for unlawful possession of methamphetamine and released pending court appearance:

• Jan K. Gaylord, age 57, of Pittsfield, Illinois,
• Teena L. Harrison, age 35, of Owensboro, Kentucky,
• Edith M. Schubert, age 39, of Jacksonville, Illinois.

The incident remains under investigation and more charges are likely.

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PRESS RELEASE

 

June 3, 2019

On 05-31-19 at approximately 6:50 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a call from a person who advised they were locked in the courthouse. A Correctional officer was dispatched to the courthouse to check on the matter. The officer unlocked the door and the person left. The identity of the person is not being released.

The Courthouse was subsequently searched. An investigation into the matter is ongoing. There were no threats received during, prior or following the incident.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

06-26-20

On Wednesday, June 24th, Mike Spann from Country Financial presented Pike County Sheriff David Greenwood with a $2500.00 check to purchase equipment for the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

The funds were made available from the Country Financial “Operation Helping Heroes” Program and their local reps. Operation Helping Heroes was created in 2015 to support non-profit organizations that support active duty service members, veterans and their families. In 2019, Country Financial expanded the program and donated $700,000 to approximately 500 first responder and military organizations. Some of the funds were used to purchase lifesaving automated external defibrillators (AEDs), bullet proof vests, and training equipment and programs.

Our communities need our support now more than ever. Let’s rally together an make an impact.

“These funds will really come in handy to purchase much needed equipment for the Sheriff’s Department including helping with the purchase of new camera’s for patrol vehicles. I am so appreciative of this donation and want to thank Mike Spann along with Country Financial for this gift to Pike County”.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

06-19-20

 

On 06-16-20, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested nineteen-year-old Ethan S. Scott of Pittsfield on an outstanding arrest warrant for the offenses of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse, Indecent Solicitation of a Child, Unlawful Grooming and Harmful Material to a Child. Victim over 13 and under 17 years old.

The warrant was issued following a three-month investigation that began in early March.

Scott was released by posting bond on a $75,000 bail.

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Press Release

June 5th, 2020

The Pleasant Hill Police Department and Pike County Sheriff’s Department announced the arrest of Spencer A. Miller, age 21, of Pleasant Hill for failure to register as a sex offender and criminal trespass to state-supported property.

The investigation began a week ago when law enforcement received information that Spencer Miller was staying at the Pike County Housing in Pleasant Hill.

Throughout the last week, the Pleasant Hill Police Department and Pike County Sheriff’s Department have conducted sex offender compliance checks on Miller’s registered sex offender address and observed Miller was not present at his registered address.

Law enforcement conducted surveillance on the Pike County Housing and arrested Miller on June 5^th, 2020 at 12:30 P.M.  Miller was located at an apartment at the housing complex.

The criminal trespass to state-supported property charge comes after Miller was advised he was not allowed on the Pike County Housing property due to his sex offender registration.

Miller remains lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

06-01-20

On 05-31-20, at 9:07 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to County Highway Four, south of Barry in reference to a single car vehicle crash.

Upon arrival by First Responders, the vehicle was located off of the east side of the roadway with the driver, having been ejected from the vehicle, located off of the west side of the roadway. The driver of the vehicle (31-year-old Gary Brewster of Barry) was removed from the scene via helicopter and flown to St John’s Hospital in Springfield.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

Assisting at the scene was the Barry Fire Department and Pike County EMS.

 

Sheriff David Greenwood

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Press Release

May 29, 2020

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department announced additional criminal charges have been filed against James L. Chestnutt, age 37, of Nebo, Illinois.

On May 26^th, 2020, a warrant of arrest was issued for James Chestnutt on three (3) counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse.

The investigation began on May 14^th, 2020 when a Facebook post made by the Facebook group, KTS Predator Hunters, LLC, alerted law enforcement to Chestnutt private messaging suspected children through social media.

KTS Predator Hunters, LLC worked with the Pike County Sheriff’s Department which subsequently led to Chestnutt’s initial arrest for indecent solicitation of a child, grooming, and distributing explicit material to a minor.

During that investigation, it was discovered that Chestnutt had contact of a sexual nature with a person under the age of 18.

After a thorough investigation by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, the Pike County State’s Attorney’s Office filed the additional charges against Chestnutt.

Chestnutt is now charged with the following criminal offenses:

• Indecent Solicitation of a Child,
• Grooming,
• Distributing Explicit Material to a Minor,
• Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse (3 counts),
• Illinois Department of Corrections Parole Violation Warrant.

Chestnutt remains lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department is appreciative of the efforts of the KTS Predator Hunters, LLC group for their hard work and dedication of informing the public of child predators in our communities.

As a reminder, all suspect(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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ILLINOIS SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION STATEMENT 5/28/2020

Today, the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association (ISA) filed suit against Governor Jay Pritzker and the Illinois De- partment of Corrections for their refusal to accept transfers of parole violators or convicted individuals from jails across Illinois.

On March 26, Gov. Pritzker unilaterally suspended all admissions to IDOC facilities in response to the

global COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, the leaders at IDOC said they needed time to prepare and install proper intake procedures to reduce the spread of the virus from inmates transferred out of County Jails.

However, no such preparations have been made or implemented, despite repeated discussions between

members of the ISA and IDOC

Rather than working together with the Sheriffs to find ways to uphold the law while reducing the spread of COVID-19, IDOC has simply shut its doors.

This has left the Sheriffs to bear not only the burden of protecting their detainees and county-sentenced inmates from the threat of the virus, but also those who rightfully should be in the custody of IDOC at a time when space and inmate population are critical components to battling the spread of the virus. Jails continue to accept new arrestees and manage the spread of the virus simultaneously.

Since March 26, IDOC officials have repeatedly denied requests from Sheriff’s Offices to transfer individ- uals to the agency’s custody. Currently there are 100’s of individuals being held in jails across Illinois in- stead of a state correctional facility simply because Gov. Pritzker and IDOC have decided to wall them- selves off rather than work with their fellow law enforcement partners to address the issue.

The task of safely housing detainees amid this unprecedented pandemic is challenge enough for Illinois Sheriffs without having to also shoulder IDOC’s responsibilities as well.

From:

Jim Kaitschuk, Executive Director Illinois Sheriffs’ Association

_________________________________

Press Release

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department announced the arrest of Michael S. Tunstall, age 33, of Hannibal, Missouri for failure to register as a sex offender, false information provided by a sex offender, and obstructing justice.

The investigation began when the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received information that a registered sex offender from the State of Missouri was living at a residence in the 200 block of Elm Street, New Canton, Pike County, Illinois.

On May 26^th, 2020 at 8:16 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a sex offender compliance check at the aforesaid residence and located Michael at the residence.

After an investigation, it was discovered that Michael had been staying at the residence and did not register as a sex offender in Pike County, Illinois.

Michael was arrested, transported, and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

05-25-20

On May 24, 2020 at 10:18 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department along with the Barry Fire Department, Pike County Emergency Corps, Pike County EMA and the Pike County EMS were dispatched to 275^th Avenue at Hadley Creek in Hadley Township due to a vehicle that was stalled in a low water crossing in Hadley Creek. It was reported that a female passenger had been swept away by the rushing water.

Upon arrival by emergency services, a search for the female was conducted. At approximately 1:28 AM on 05-25-20, the body of 36-year-old Michelle R. Bowen of Louisiana Missouri was recovered from the Hadley Creek over 1500 feet north of the location she was swept away.

The driver of the vehicle (33-year-old Bruce J. Richards) of Barry Illinois was later arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol.

The incident is still under investigation by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

I cannot say it enough. Never drive through moving water at a low water creek crossing if you are not familiar with the crossing, especially after a rainstorm when the water level is elevated.

The Barry Fire Department along with the Pike County Emergency Corps were exceptional in their response, bravery and technique. These guys are volunteers who legitimately put their lives in danger trying to help others.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE

May 19, 2020

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department has announced the arrest of Jason M. Rennecker, age 37, of Barry on a Pike County Warrant for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

The investigation began when Rennecker failed to register as sex offender as required.  On May 18^th, 2020, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department attempted to arrest Rennecker, but he was not at his residence when deputies arrived.

Rennecker, upon receiving information that he was wanted on a warrant, turned himself in to the Pike County Jail.

Rennecker posted bond and was released pending court appearance.

*All subjects are innocent until proven guilty in court of law.

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PRESS RELEASE

May 19th, 2020

Every year around this time, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department receives numerous complaints regarding people trespassing on private property via creeks and creek beds. I just wanted to re-issue a reminder to anyone four wheeling or walking creek beds on property you do not own or do not have specific permission to be on. Illinois Law prohibits trespassing on private property. This includes creeks that are not navigable. If a creek goes onto or through private property and is not navigable, it is illegal to go onto the property via the creek. The following link to Department of Natural Resources may help in determining which bodies of water are considered navigable in the state of Illinois. https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/WaterResources/Pages/PublicWaters.aspx

If someone is trespassing on private property, they are subject to arrest.

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PRESS RELEASE

 May 19th, 2020

SCAM ALERT

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department has been notified of several complaints of scams where someone gets a call from a person identifying themselves as a grandchild, niece, nephew, etc. The caller indicates they are in trouble, usually due to being arrested following a vehicle crash or vehicle stop and needs money sent to them to get out of jail. Most of the times they will actually have the name of and use the name of your loved one. DO NOT SEND MONEY. This is a common scam which has resurfaced in our area, preying mostly on senior citizens. If you send money, your money cannot be retrieved and the scammers will probably never be identified. If you receive one of these calls, you can contact the Pike County Sheriff’s Department at 217-285-5011 to report it or to confirm whether or not your loved one is incarcerated.

These individuals who instigate this type of thievery, stealing money from mostly senior citizens in making them believe their loved ones are in some type of danger are some of the lowest types of human beings. Please don’t fall victim to them by sending them money. Hang up the phone and call us.

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PRESS RELEASE

May 14th, 2020

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department has announced the arrest of James L. Chestnutt, age 37, of Nebo for the following offenses:

• Indecent Solicitation of a Child,
• Grooming,
• Distributing Explicit Material to a Minor,
• Illinois Department of Corrections Parole Violation Warrant.

On May 14^th, 2020, a Facebook post made by the Facebook group named KTS Predator Hunters, LLC alerted law enforcement to James private messaging suspected children through social media.  KTS Predator Hunters, LLC is an investigative group that pose as underage children and attempt to identify adults that attempt to solicit children through the use of the internet.

The mission of the KTS Predator Hunters, LLC is to inform the public of child predators in our communities.  KTS Predator Hunters, LLC work hand in hand with law enforcement to ensure arrests and convictions can be obtained.

Upon receiving messages from KTS Predator Hunters, LLC, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department located and arrested James Chestnutt at his residence in Nebo, Illinois.

James was released from the Illinois Department of Corrections on mandatory supervised release on May 4^th, 2020.

James had been released for ten (10) days before he was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail on new charges.

The investigation and arrest of James was a joint effort between the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and the KTS Predator Hunters.

The incident remains under investigation and additional charges are likely.

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PRESS RELEASE

May 14, 2020

The Pleasant Hill Police Department and Pike County Sheriff’s Department announced the arrest of Walter L. Michel, age 24, of Nebo, Illinois on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine Less than Five (5) Grams,
• Unlawful Possession of Hypodermic Needles,
• Unlawful Use of Weapon,
• Unlawful Possession of Firearms Ammunition by a Felon,
• Pike County Warrant for Unlawful Use of Credit Card,
• Illinois Department of Corrections Parole Violation Warrant.

 

On May 14^th, 2020 at 10:54 P.M., the Pleasant Hill Police Department located Walter at a residence in the 200 block of Howard Street, Pleasant Hill, Pike County, Illinois.

Walter was taken into custody and on the Pike County warrant.  Subsequent to an investigation, Walter was found to be in possession of methamphetamine, hypodermic syringes, and ammunition.

Walter was currently on mandatory supervised release from the Illinois Department of Corrections at the time of his arrest.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department assisted with the investigation.

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PRESS RELEASE

April 27, 2020

A month-long criminal investigation led to the arrest of Clayton G. Watts, age 21, of Pittsfield, Illinois on a Pike County, Illinois warrant for the original offense(s):

• Criminal Sexual Assault (Class 1 Felony)
• Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse (Class 2 Felony)

 

The arrest is a result of an investigation where Watts allegedly had sexual contact with a person under the age of eighteen (18) years old.

As the investigation progressed, additional victims have come forward.  The incident remains under investigation and additional charges are likely.

Clayton was arrested after a traffic stop was conducted on a vehicle Watts was driving in Pittsfield on April 27^th, 2020 at 5:28 P.M.  Watts was found to be in possession of a suspected controlled substance.  The controlled substance charge is pending confirmation by the Illinois State Police Laboratory.

Watts is currently lodged in the Pike County Jail on a $120,000 bond.

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PRESS RELEASE   

March 22nd, 2020

 

SCAM ALERT

With the ongoing COVID-19 Corona Virus situation, I would like to make sure everyone is aware of recent scams. Unfortunately, while most of us are heeding instruction and advice from officials, there are those loathsome individuals that are determined to prey on the fear and emotions of others.

If you or anyone you know receive a call or are contacted by anyone requesting money or information for anything related to the corona virus, consider it a scam. DO NOT RESPOND.

If you or anyone you know receive a call or are contacted by anyone wanting to sell you test kits or any other device for the corona virus, consider it a scam. DO NOT RESPOND.

A normal target for these people to solicit is the elderly. Please make your friends, family and neighbors aware.

 

Sheriff David Greenwood

 

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Press Release

On February 13^th, 2020, Jacki C. McLaughlin, age 44, of Greenview, Illinois was sentenced in Pike County Circuit Court to seven (7) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections after pleading guilty to the offenses of unlawful possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, two (2) counts of residential burglary, and one (1) count of unlawful possession of a stolen motor vehicle.

The investigation began on October 29^th, 2019, when the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a residential burglary complaint on the Perry Fishhook Road, Baylis, Pike County, Illinois.  The homeowner came home and discovered United States Currency, firearms, and other items had been stolen from his residence.  The Pike County Sheriff’s Department contacted Illinois State Police Crime Scene Services and requested assistance with the investigation.

Illinois State Police Crime Scene Services was able to collect physical evidence from the scene that was submitted to the Illinois State Police Crime Lab for analysis.  The Illinois State Police Crime Lab was able to identify Jacki McLaughlin as a suspect.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department attempted to locate Jacki by contacting other police agencies.  It was discovered that Jacki had multiple warrants for her arrest out of several different counties.

On November 10^th, 2019, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a second residential burglary complaint on the Perry Fishhook Road, Baylis, Pike County, Illinois.  The homeowner reported several items had been stolen from his residence to include televisions, firearms, and a truck.

Later in the evening, the Morgan County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on the stolen truck.  The driver, William J. Williams, age 43, of Springfield, Illinois was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail on a charge of Unlawful Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle.

Evidence seized from Williams during his arrest led the Pike County Sheriff’s Department to the whereabouts of Jacki McLaughlin.

On November 12^th, 2019, Chief Deputy Zack Orr was able to pinpoint Jacki’s location by using evidence seized from Williams during his arrest.  Chief Deputy Orr said with the assistance from the Menard County Sheriff’s Department, Greenview Police Department, and the Central Illinois Enforcement Group they were able to locate and arrest Jacki after a brief foot pursuit at a residence in the 300 block of Van Buren Street, Greenview, Menard County, Illinois.

Upon Jacki’s arrest, Chief Deputy Orr was able to collect substantial information from Jacki about her involvement in residential burglaries, burglaries, and thefts throughout Pike County, Brown County, Morgan County, Sangamon County, and Menard County.

Jacki cooperated with the criminal investigation and admitted to her role in all of the crimes.

Chief Deputy Orr said this is an example of old fashion police work where several law enforcement entities were able to work together for the good of their citizens.  Chief Deputy Orr praised the hard work of ISP CST Brandi Field who was able to recover evidence to put Jacki at the crime scene at one of the residences on the Perry Fishhook Road.  Chief Deputy Orr said he had complete support and assistance from the Morgan County Sheriff’s Department, Menard County Sheriff’s Department, and the Greenview Police Department.

Jacki’s co-defendant in the Pike County cases, William Williams, has a jury trial set for April 13^th, 2020.

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PRESS RELEASE

On August 29^th, 2019, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a burglary complaint on US Highway 54, Rockport, Illinois.  The victim reported that his shop had been burglarized and over $10,000 worth of tools had been stolen.

Throughout the following days, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was able to identify and arrest:

• Michael J. Smith, age 42, of Quincy, Illinois,
• Jaime M. Kessler, age 34, of Labelle, Missouri,
• Christopher A. Smith, age 37, of Quincy, Illinois,

 

Michael J Smith                                                   Jaime Kessler

for burglary and theft.

On December 10^th, 2019, Michael Smith pled guilty to burglary and theft in Pike County, Illinois and was sentenced to four (4) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

On January 28^th, 2020, Jaime Kessler pled guilty to burglary in Pike County, Illinois and was sentenced to three (3) years in the Illinois Department of Corrections followed by forty-eight (48) months of probation.

Christopher Smith has an arraignment set for March 17^th, 2020.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On February 11^th, at 11:55 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on a white Ford passenger car on US Hwy 54 near Summer Hill.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Robin K. Gibson, age 44, of Hesperia, California was cited for operation of a motor vehicle with suspended registration, no valid driver’s license, and improper lane usage.  Gibson was cited and released.

A passenger, Stacy A. Sitze, age 46, of Mt. Sterling was arrested on a charge of unlawful possession of methamphetamine.

Sitze was arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On February 11^th at 4:41 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department assisted by the Pittsfield Police Department conducted a traffic stop in the 300 block of Landess Terrace.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Dakota L. Kallal, age 23, of Pittsfield, Illinois was arrested on a Calhoun County warrant for aggravated criminal sexual abuse.

Kallal was arrested without incident and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

 

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PRESS RELEASE

On December 21^st, 2019, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department arrested Jeffrey L. Kinne, age 47, of Pittsfield, Illinois for the offenses of child sex offender residing within 500 feet of a public park and an Illinois Department of Corrections Parole Violation warrant.

The incident began when the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received information that Kinne was residing in the 700 block of Bainbridge Street in Barry, Illinois.  The residence is located approx. 113 feet from Lafayette Park in Barry, Illinois.

Kinne was released from the Illinois Department of Corrections on December 20^th, 2019 on mandatory supervised release.  Kinne is a registered sex offender in Pike County, Illinois.

Kinne was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On December 18^th, 2019 at 9:37 P.M., a Pike County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a silver 2003 Chevrolet near the intersection of Williams Street at Rogers Street in Barry, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Bruce J. Richards, age, 32, of Barry was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Richards, who is on mandatory supervised release from the Illinois Department of Corrections, was lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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PRESS RELEASE

On November 26^th, 2019, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was notified of a sexual assault which occurred at a residence in the 400 block of Mason Street, Barry, Pike County, Illinois.

A criminal investigation was conducted which subsequently led to the arrest of Sidney R. Barrett, age 64, of Barry, Illinois.  Sidney was taken into custody by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department in Quincy, Illinois on December 17^th, 2019.

Sidney is accused of committing an act of sexual penetration with a family member under the age of eighteen (18) years old.

Sidney was arrested and lodged in the Pike County Jail on charges of criminal sexual assault and aggravated criminal sexual abuse.  Sidney’s bond is currently set at $250,000.

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PRESS RELEASE   

 December 16^th, 2019

On 12-13-19. The Pike County Sheriff’s Department along with the West Central Illinois Drug Task Force and the Illinois State Police executed a court authorized search warrant in the 300 Block of East Mississippi Street in New Canton Illinois. During the execution of the search warrant 36-year-old Nathan L. Bradshaw of Barry Illinois was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

The investigation into this property began with citizen complaints. The partnership between citizens and law enforcement are vital when it comes to fighting illegal drug use in our communities.

If you have any information of crime in your community, please contact the Pike County Sheriff’s Department at 217-285-5011. You can also call Pike County Crime Stoppers at 217-285-1500. The call is anonymous. If the information you provide leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a cash reward.

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PRESS RELEASE   

 December 3, 2019

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department has received several calls within the last twenty-four hours regarding citizens being called and solicited for their Social Security Number and Credit Card information.

This press release is just a reminder to never give out personal information over the phone. If you receive a letter in the mail asking you to call a number and during that call you are asked to provide personal information, DO NOT provide it. The only time you should ever provide personal information to anyone over the phone is when you initiate an unsolicited call.

As with any fraud complaint, if you are a victim, report it to your local law enforcement agency.

David Greenwood, Pike County Sheriff

 

Press Release

On November 13^th, 2019 at approx. 5:00 A.M, the West Central Illinois Drug Task Force, Pike County Sheriff’s Department, and Illinois State Police executed a court- authorized search warrant on a property in rural Rockport, Illinois.

Subsequent to an investigation, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and United States Currency was seized.

Arrested as a result of the investigation are:

Chantel M. Myers, age 52, of Rockport, for the offenses of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Quinten Lee Cantwell, age 35, of Rockport was arrested on a Pike County warrant for  Probation Violation and a second arrest warrant for failure to report to a penal institution.  Additionally, Quinten was arrested on new charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Both Myers and Cantwell are lodged in the Pike County Jail.

Further arrests are pending.

Chantel M. Myers , 52                                           Quinten L. Cantwell, 35

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PRESS RELEASE   

 November 12, 2019

On 11-10-19, at 8:56 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a residence in Fishhook Illinois regarding a report of Residential Burglary where a vehicle was also stolen.

During the investigation, an alert was issued to other agencies regarding the vehicle that was stolen during the burglary. The vehicle was located and stopped in Morgan County where the Morgan County Sheriff’s Department arrested 43-year-old William J. Williams and 43-year-old Brain D. Hannon, both from Springfield Illinois. Both subjects were transported to the Pike County Jail where they are being lodged for the offenses of Residential Burglary, Burglary, Theft of a Motor Vehicle and Possession of Stolen Property. It was also learned during the investigation that another vehicle was stolen from Mount Sterling Illinois by a subject believed to be involved with the burglary in Fishhook.

On 11-12-19, 44-year-old Jacki C. McLaughlin was taken into custody in Greenview Illinois in reference to this investigation and for arrest warrants from multiple jurisdictions. The stolen vehicle from Mount Sterling was also recovered from the residence in Greenview.  McLaughlin is also suspected in a burglary in Fishhook on October 3^rd of this year. McLaughlin is presently being house in the Menard County Jail.

The investigation is ongoing and further charges are expected.

Assisting the Pike County Sheriff’s Department during this investigation was the Morgan County Sheriff’s Department, The Jacksonville Police Department, The Greenview Police Department, the Menard County Sheriff’s Department and the Illinois State Police.

 

William J  Williams                                               Brian D Hannon

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PRESS RELEASE   

 

November 11, 2019

On 11-09-19, at 9:35 AM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a two vehicle, Vehicle Crash at the intersection of Pratt and Rogers Street in Barry.

Following an investigation, it was learned that a white Federal Express van driven by 33-year-old Ryan Grindstaff of Palmyra, Missouri, failed to yield at the intersection and struck a pickup truck driven by Everett Wyatt of Barry. No injuries were reported.

Grindstaff was cited for Failure to Yield at an Intersection.

Assisting at the scene was the Barry Fire Department and Pike County EMS.

Sheriff David Greenwood

               

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  PRESS RELEASE   

 October 28th, 2019

On October 24^th at 5:36 AM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a call reporting a passerby observing a subject lying on the side of the road, next to a car bumper on State Highway 100. The caller indicated they did not see a car at the time they called. Upon arrival of emergency responders and a search of the area, the vehicle was located.

During the investigation, it was learned that a 2009 Jeep Cherokee was traveling eastbound on County Highway 10. The vehicle did not stop at the intersection with State Highway 100, crossed over the highway and crashed into the hillside off the east side of State Highway 100.

The driver of the vehicle (35-year-old Brandon Scott Tate of Nebo Illinois) was airlifted to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis due to injuries sustained in the vehicle crash. Tate was cited for Disobeying a Stop Sign and Driving While License is Revoked. The investigation into the crash is still ongoing along with a post-crash related incident. Further charges are pending the outcome of the investigations.

Assisting at the scene was the Illinois State Police, the Spring Creek Fire Department, the Pleasant Hill Fire Department and the Pike County EMS.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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                       PRESS RELEASE   

 October 18th, 2019

On October 16^th at 1:54 AM, The Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a report of an armed robbery at Jiffi Stop in Barry off of State Highway 106.

A masked white male entered the Jiffi Stop, brandished a handgun and demanded money from the cashier. The suspect was in the store for a short amount of time and left with a small amount of cash and items from the store.

An investigation into the identity of the suspect is ongoing and we are asking for the public’s help with his identification. He is described as a white male approximately 5’11” and approximately 200 lbs. Although the suspect’s face was not observed at the store, it was captured on a surveillance camera nearby.

If you have information regarding the identity of this individual, please call the Pike County Sheriff’s Department at 217-285-5011 or Pike County Crime Stoppers at 217-285-1500.

Sheriff David Greenwood

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PRESS RELEASE   10,9,2019

 

On October 9^th, 2019, 32-year-old Brandon J. Disrud of New Lisbon Wisconsin, was arrested for Aggravated Fleeing to Elude following an attempted traffic stop in Pittsfield. Following a pursuit and an attempt to locate, which lasted over an hour, Disrud was arrested in a beanfield north of Valley City, west of County Highway 14 where his vehicle became disabled.

Disrud is also being held on an outstanding $15,000 arrest warrant out of Stephenson County Illinois and a Wisconsin No Bond Parole Hold for burglary. Disrud is being lodged at the Pike County Jail.

Local citizens were integral in locating Disrud by calling the Sheriff’s Office to report their sightings of him and his location.

Sheriff David Greenwood

 

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Press Release

On September 23^rd, 2019 an Illinois State Police Trooper received a theft report in Detroit, Illinois.  The victim indicated someone had stolen his Suzuki motorcycle sometime throughout the night.

Illinois State Police Trooper Tanner Fay immediately alerted officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department of the motorcycle theft in Detroit, Illinois.

The Illinois State Police and Pike County Sheriff’s Department followed up with the investigation and was able to conduct interviews with witnesses and also review surveillance video from a nearby residence.  From the surveillance video, law enforcement officials were able to identify the truck used in the motorcycle theft.

On October 2^nd, 2019, an officer from the Louisiana, Missouri, Police Department notified the Pike County Sheriff’s Department of an on-going motorcycle theft investigation in Hannibal, Missouri.

The Hannibal Police Department conducted a court-authorized search warrant at a residence in Hannibal and recovered four (4) stolen motorcycles and a trailer.

Law enforcement officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department met with investigators from the Hannibal Police Department.

On October 3^rd, 2019, law enforcement officials from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department interviewed a suspect that was currently incarcerated in the Marion County, MO, Jail.

During the interview, the suspect admitted to stealing the motorcycle in the early morning hours of September 23^rd, 2019 in Detroit, Pike County, Illinois.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Illinois State Police were able to secure arrest warrants for two (2) subjects on October 4^th, 2019.

Arrested as a result of the investigation is Corey A. Roach, age 27, of Hannibal, Missouri for theft over $500.00.  Corey is currently lodged in the Marion County Jail on both Missouri and Illinois charges.

A second suspect has been identified and an arrest warrant has been issued by the Pike County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Pike County Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy Zack Orr said due to Trooper Tanner Fay’s immediate report to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department about the stolen motorcycle, this investigation was able to be handled quickly by several different police agencies.   Chief Deputy Orr said due to the Louisiana Police Department, Hannibal Police Department, Illinois State Police, and the Pike County Sheriff’s Department all working together this case was resolved quickly.

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PRESS RELEASE

The third and final suspect has been arrested for a burglary and theft offense which took place in late August of 2019 in rural Rockport, Illinois.

Michael J. Smith, age 42, of Quincy, was arrested by the Quincy Police Department on September 27^th, 2019 on a Pike County warrant for burglary and theft.  Smith has been transported and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

The investigation began in late August when a Pike County resident reported someone had unlawfully their building and stole approx. $10,000.00 worth of tools.

The first suspect, Jaime M. Kessler, age 34, of Quincy was arrested on September 9^th, 2019.  Jaime is currently incarcerated in the Pike County Jail.

The second suspect, Christopher A. Smith, age 37, of Quincy was arrested on September 11^th, 2019 by law enforcement officials from the West Central Illinois Task Force and the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.  Christopher is currently incarcerated in the Pike County Jail.

A majority of the tools stolen have been recovered from a pawn shop in the State of Missouri.

The incident is still under investigation.

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PRESS RELEASE

September 26th, 2019

On September 25^th, 2019 the Pike County Sheriff’s Department along with the West Central Illinois Drug Task Force executed a court authorized search warrant in the 600 block of Williams Street in Barry.

During the execution of the searched warrant 28-year-old Lucas K. Hively of Barry was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine less than 5 grams, Possession of Cannabis with the Intent to Deliver (30-500 grams) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (methamphetamine and cannabis).

The investigation began approximately two months ago with information gathered stating Hively was distributing illegal drugs to adults and high school students.

Hively is currently lodged at the Pike County Jail awaiting a court appearance. Hively is currently on mandatory supervised release status (parole) from the Illinois Department of Corrections.

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Press Release

On August 29^th, 2019 at 10:54 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a complaint of a burglary and theft at 17372 US Highway 54, Rockport, Pike County, Illinois.

Upon the Deputy’s arrival at the scene, it was reported that over $10,000.00 worth of tools had been stolen during the burglary.

The victims indicated they had surveillance video of the burglary and theft.

After reviewing surveillance video and conducting countless interviews with others, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was able to identify one person in the video.

With the cooperation of the Pike County State’s Attorney’s Office, an arrest warrant was issued for Jaime M. Kessler, age 34, of Quincy, Illinois for the offenses of burglary and theft.

On September 9^th, 2019 at approx. 6:55 P.M., officers from the Pittsfield Police Department and Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop in Pittsfield, Illinois and Jaime was subsequently taken into custody on the arrest warrant.

Jaime was arrested without incident and transported to the Pike County Jail.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department was able to obtain surveillance video from a business in Louisiana, Missouri where the subjects stopped shortly after the burglary occurred.

Additional arrest warrants were obtained for Michael J. Smith, age 41, of Quincy, Illinois and Christopher A. Smith, age 37, of Quincy, Illinois for burglary and theft over $500.00.

On September 11^th, 2019, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department with the assistance of the West Central Illinois Task Force was able to locate several witnesses regarding this investigation.  Witness interviews were conducted which led to the recovery of a majority of the tools stolen during the burglary.  The investigation also led to the discovery of tools stolen from a burglary in Adams County, Illinois.

The West Central Illinois Task Force was able to locate and arrest Christopher Smith in Quincy, Illinois on a Pike County, Illinois warrant.

Christopher was transported to the Pike County Jail.

Without the assistance of the West Central Illinois Task Force and the Quincy Police Department Street Crimes Unit this particular investigation would not have gone as smoothly as it did.

The West Central Illinois Task Force is made up of officers from the Quincy Police Department, Adams County Sheriff’s Department, Brown County Sheriff’s Department, Pike County Sheriff’s Department, and the Illinois State Police.

One suspect, Michael J. Smith, is a fugitive and authorities are actively looking for him.

If you know the whereabouts of  Michael J. Smith,  please contact Pike County Crimestoppers at (217) 285-1500 or the Quincy Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at (217) 228-4474 or you can submit a tip by going to www.quincycrimestoppers.com. 

 

 

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PRESS RELEASE   

 

September 13th, 2019

On Friday, September 13, 2019 at approximately 10:52 AM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a single vehicle rollover crash on County Highway Seven approximately four miles north of Nebo.

A vehicle driven by Joseph Yasenko was traveling northbound on County Highway Seven. As the vehicle approached a curve, it traveled off the east side of the roadway, striking a guardrail and rolled over onto its top. Upon arrival of a Pike County Sheriff’s Deputy, Yasenko and two passengers were trapped in the vehicle. The Spring Creek Fire Department along with the Pleasant Hill Fire Department, the Pittsfield Fire Department and Pike County EMS were able to free the driver and passengers from the vehicle.

All three occupants were transported from the scene to medical facilities via helicopters.

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PRESS RELEASE   

August 25, 2019

On August 24th, 2019 at 7:02 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to State Highway 96 near the intersection of State Highway 106 in Kinderhook, Illinois in reference to a single vehicle accident.

Subsequent to an investigation it was determined that Richard H. Schutte, age 93, of New Canton, was driving a 2015 Ford northbound on State Highway 96 south of State Highway 106 when Richard veered off of the roadway and struck a Nicor gas line.

Passerby’s were able to extricate Richard from his vehicle and carry him away from the gas leak.

Traffic was shut down for approx. two hours on both State Highway 96 and State Highway 106 while repairs were being made to the gas line.

Richard was transported by Survival Flight to St. Johns Hospital in Springfield where he succumbed to his injures.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by the Illinois State Police, Hull-Kinderhook Fire Department, New Canton Fire Department, and the Pike County Ambulance Service.

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UPDATE

August 20, 2019

On Monday, August 20^th, 28-yrar-old Jordan Timothy Ray Gallup turned himself in to the Alton Police Department on a Pike County Arrest Warrant.

Gallup will be transported to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department where he will be lodged at the Pike County Jail in Lieu of $300,000.00 bond.

All four suspects involved in this string of burglaries are now in custody.

This investigation involved numerous agencies including the Illinois State Police Zone Four Investigations, the Pittsfield Police Department, the Scott County Sheriff’s Department, the Adams County Sheriff’s Department, and the Jacksonville Police Department.

David Greenwood

Pike County Sheriff

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August 20, 2019

On Monday, August 19^th, the Pike County Sheriff’s Office along with the Illinois State Police, the Jacksonville Police Department, the Jacksonville Police Special Response Team, the Scott County Sheriff’s Department and the Adams County Sheriff’s Department conducted Court Authorized Search Warrants on three residences in Jacksonville Illinois.

The purpose for the search warrants were to locate additional suspects and evidence from the string of burglaries and home invasions on August 15^th and 16^th in Pike, Adams and Scott Counties.

Arrested during one of the Search Warrants was 29-year-old Edwin L. Powell of Jacksonville Illinois. Powell was arrested on a Pike County Arrest Warrant for three counts of Home Invasion. Powell was transported to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department where he is being lodged in lieu of $300,000.00 bond.

Also arrested later at the Pike County Jail was 26-year-old Germarco D. Tate of Jacksonville Illinois. Tate turned himself in later at the Pike County Jail. Tate was arrested on a Pike County Arrest Warrant for three counts of Home Invasion. Tate is being lodged at the Pike County Jail in lieu of $300,000.00 bond.

Arrested on August 16^th 2019 was 22-year-old Tyler J. Runk of Jacksonville Illinois. Runk has been charged with three counts of Home Invasion. Runk is being lodged at the Pike County Jail in lieu of $300,000.00 Bond.

Still at large is 28-year-old Jordan Timothy Ray Gallup. Gallup is 6 feet, 1 inch tall and approximately 165 pounds. He has brown hair and hazel eyes. Gallup may be in the Jacksonville or Alton areas. Gallup is to be considered armed and dangerous. If you come into contact with Gallup please call 911 or your local police department.

David Greenwood

Pike County Sheriff

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08/17/2019

On August 15^th, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a burglary in rural Chambersburg. The owner of the house came home and found that his residence had been broken into and burglarized.

During the early morning hours of August 16^th, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to another residence in rural Chambersburg regarding a home invasion. The suspects entered the residence while the owners were home. The owners were robbed and their house burglarized.

A short time later, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a house in rural Perry regarding another home invasion. The owner of the house was home when the suspects entered her house. The resident was robbed, the home was burglarized and her vehicle stolen. The vehicle is described as a sage green in color, Honda CRV with a luggage rack on the roof bearing an Illinois Registration Plate of P302654. At this time the vehicle has not been recovered.

One of the suspects was taken into custody later in Jacksonville and is being housed in the Pike County Jail.

We believe that these incidents are related to others that have occurred recently in Adams and Scott County. This is still a very active joint investigation with investigators from the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, The Illinois State Police, Illinois State Police Zone Four Investigators, The Adams County Sheriff’s Department, The Scott County Sheriff’s Department and the Jacksonville Police Department.

Further updates will be made as soon as they are available and able to be released.

As always, if you have any information regarding these incidents, please call any of the above noted departments or you can call Pike County Crime Stoppers at 217-285-1500.

David Greenwood

Pike County Sheriff

 

08/16/2019

PRESS RELEASE

 On August 16, 2019 at approximately 8:14 AM, The Pike County Sheriff’s Department along with the Illinois State Police, The Barry Fire Department and Pike County EMS were dispatched to 466 Tremont Street in Barry regarding the report of an explosive device being in the house. Western High School was evacuated along with residences in the immediate area due to their proximity to the house. Following an investigation by the Secretary of State Bomb Detection Team, the house was cleared with the determination that there was no threat of an explosive device. During this incident, one person was transported to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department for questioning. The investigation is still ongoing.

The community should know that the area was cleared and there was never a threat to anyone or the school.

Sheriff David Greenwood

 

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August 5, 2019

Press Release:   08052019

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August 2, 2019

Scott Bricking 08022019

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July 3, 2019 

On Tuesday July 2^nd, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department along with the West Central Illinois Drug Task Force conducted a court authorized search warrant in the 400 block of Middle Street in Nebo Illinois.

Arrested during the search warrant was 55-year-old Marti L. Grammer of Nebo for the offenses of Possession of Methamphetamine Over Five Grams, Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to Deliver and Possession of a Controlled Substance. Also arrested on an outstanding Pike County Arrest Warrant was 56-year-old Laura M. Bequette of Nebo.

Grammer and Bequette were both transported to the Pike County Jail. Grammer is being lodged pending a court appearance. Bequette posted $3000.00 bond and was released.

The use and sale of methamphetamine and other illegal drugs (including illegally used prescription medication) are destructive not only to persons using them, but also to our families and communities. The solution is complex and must involve everyone. If you see something in your neighborhood that appears suspicious or may be drug related, please contact law enforcement. You may also contact Pike County Crime Stoppers at 217-285-1500. This is a way to report crime and remain anonymous. If the information you provide results in an arrest, you may be eligible for a cash reward.

Sheriff David E. Greenwood

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June 3, 2019

On 05-31-19 at approximately 6:50 PM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a call from a person who advised they were locked in the courthouse. A Correctional officer was dispatched to the courthouse to check on the matter. The officer unlocked the door and the person left. The identity of the person is not being released.

The Courthouse was subsequently searched. An investigation into the matter is ongoing. There were no threats received during, prior or following the incident.

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May 23rd, 2019

On May 23rd, 2019, at 11:40 AM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a report of a helicopter crash north of Pittsfield, just east of County Highway 3 on 270th Avenue.

The Bell 206 Helicopter crashed while crop spraying a wheat field. The pilot of the helicopter, 26-year-old Reiss Herbert of Perry Louisiana walked away from the crash uninjured.

The cause of the crash is under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Also responding to the scene was the Pittsfield Fire Department, Pike County EMS and the Pike County Emergency Management Agency.

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On April 24^th, 2019 at 11:03 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on County Highway #4 near the Barry Travel Plaza on a silver 1994 Mazda.  Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, James Bell, age 52, of Hannibal, Missouri was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine less than 5 grams, unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, unlawful use of weapon, and driving while license suspended or revoked.

Bell was transported and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

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On April 2^nd, 2019 at approximately 7:00 PM, The Pike County Sheriff’s Department along with the West Central Illinois Drug Task Force executed a court authorized search warrant on a residence just south of Milton.

Arrested during the search warrant was 24 year old Sierra D. Sydney of Pearl for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, 23 year old Jacob L. Holtzof Pittsfield for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and 18 year old Justice M. Gibson of New Canton for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Gibson also was wanted on a $20,000 Arrest Warrant out of Pike County.

Sydney, Holtz and Gibson were transported to the Pike County Jail where, they are presently being housed.

The Department of Children and Family Services were contacted due to children being in the home.

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On March 29^th, 2019, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received confirmation that the human remains that were located along the Mississippi River near Hull Illinois on August 8^th 2018 were that of Ean Michael Reinold of Quincy Illinois.

On August 08^th 2018, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a report of human remains located along the Mississippi River near Hull. Following an investigation with assistance from Mr. Reinold’s family, Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police and The Illinois State Police, identification was made utilizing DNA.

Mr. Reinold was originally reported missing following a boating accident near Quincy Illinois on October 14^th 2017.

David Greenwood, Pike County Sheriff

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PRESS RELEASE UPDATE: 

 On March 27^th 2019 an arrest warrant for 44 year old Charles T. Allen of Louisiana Missouri was issued. The arrest warrant which was filed today by the Pike County State’s Attorney Zachary Boren is for two counts of First Degree Murder and one count of Aggravated Battery.

On March 26^th at approximately 10:58 PM, the Pleasant Hill Police Department along with the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Pike County EMS and the Pleasant Hill Fire Department was dispatched to the 600 block of Orrill Street in Pleasant Hill Illinois in reference to a report of a stabbing.

Following the arrival of responding officer’s and Pike County EMS, 65 year old Donald R. Collard of Pleasant Hill was pronounced dead.

During the investigation, it was learned that Allen may have traveled back to Missouri. With the assistance of the Louisiana Missouri Police Department and the Pike County Missouri Sheriff’s Department, Allen was taken into custody and transported to the Pike County Missouri Sheriff’s Department.

Following the issuance of the arrest warrant and a signed waiver of extradition, Allen is being transported to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and will be housed at the Pike County Jail with no bond.

The investigation is on going with further charges possible.

Pike County Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy and Pleasant Hill Police Chief Zachary Orr stresses that the collaboration and cooperation of all entities involved in Illinois and Missouri are paramount when it comes to bringing horrible incidents like this to a point of prosecution.

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On 03-26-19 at 10:58 PM, The Pike county Sheriff’s Department along with the Pleasant Hill Police Department, Pike County EMS and the Pleasant Hill Fire Department responded to a report of a stabbing in the 600 block of Orrill Street in Pleasant Hill Illinois.

A sixty-five year old male was pronounced dead at the scene.

A forty-four year old male was later apprehended in Pike County Missouri and is being held for Aggravated Battery regarding the injuries to the 65 year old male.

The investigation is still on going and further charges are expected.

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On March 12th, 2019 at 2:05 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on US 54 near State Highway 106 on a gray 2007 Chevrolet Malibu.  Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Joshua L. Parks, age 29, of Ladonia, Missouri was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine less than five (5) grams, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, driving under the influence of any amount of methamphetamine, driving while license suspended, illegal transportation of alcohol by a driver, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle.  Further investigation revealed Parks just left the Pike County Courthouse after appearing for a preliminary hearing on a previous charge of unlawful possession of methamphetamine less than five (5) grams.  Parks was transported and lodged in the Pike Count Jail.

PRESS RELEASE

On 03-09-19 at 10:19 AM, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a report of a vehicle that was stuck in a flooded creek on 290^th Avenue at Kisor Creek in Hadley Township. The caller advised her car was filling with water and she can’t get out. Due to the rushing water already entering the passenger compartment of the vehicle, the Pike County Emergency 911 Dispatcher repeatedly instructed the driver to roll down her windows, remove her seatbelt, exit the vehicle and secure herself to its roof.

Upon the arrival of the Sheriff’s Deputy, the driver was on top of her vehicle. The Sheriff’s Deputy began the process of rescuing the driver from her vehicle. The Barry Fire Department along with the Baylis Fire Department arrived on scene shortly after and continued in rescuing the driver.  Assistance was sought by contacting the Hadley Creek Road Commissioner (Bob Armistead) who brought a road grader to the scene.  Armistead was able to assist the driver onto the road grader and safely from the flooded creek.

Following the driver being removed from the vehicle, the vehicle was pushed further down the creek due to the rising water.

There were no injuries reported.

With Spring just around the corner and the rainy season beginning, this is a stark reminder to never drive into flooded water.  Your life is more important than getting somewhere on time.

Our 911 telecommunicators are trained on all types of emergency situations and are always the first line of defense for anyone who calls with an emergency. Please be patient with them when they request information from you and listen to their instruction. There is a reason for it and it assists in getting help to you a soon as possible.

Assisting at the scene was The Barry Fire Department, The Baylis Fire Department, The Hadley Township Road Commissioner, Pike County EMS, The Pike County EMA and the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

Press Release

On February 22^nd, 2019 at 9:56 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Pleasant Hill Police Department conducted a traffic stop on East Quincy Street in Pleasant Hill.  Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Rebecca N. Orr, age 37, of Pleasant Hill was arrested on a Pike County warrant for petition for revocation of bail and on new charges of unlawful possession of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of hypodermic syringes.

Orr was transported and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

Local law enforcement conducted a court-authorized search warrant at Orr’s residence in the 700 block of Houston Street on February 5^th, 2019.  At the time, Rebecca was arrested for unlawful possession of methamphetamine, unlawful delivery of methamphetamine, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.  Orr was released after posting bond and was subsequently arrested again on February 22^nd, 2019.

The investigation is on-going.  The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services are assisting with the investigation.

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On February 23^rd, 2019 at 1:30 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to US Highway 54 near 200^th Avenue in reference to a two-vehicle accident.  Subsequent to an investigation, a 2003 Mazda Familia driven by Kaleb Taylor-Clark, age 17, of Rockport, was westbound on US 54 attempting to turn into a private drive when he was rear-ended by a 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by Brent E. Smith, age 25, of Griggsville.

Smith was cited for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident.

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On February 24^th, 2019 at 7:20 A.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to State Highway 106 just west of 345^th Street  in reference to a two-vehicle accident.  Subequent to an investigation it was determined that a 2014 Jeep Patriot driven by a sixteen year old juvenile was eastbound in the westbound lane of State Highway 106.  A 2009 Mercury Milan driven by Richard Snow, age 51, of Barry, was westbound and

Press Release (Lojek)

Press Release 02-06-19

1-12-19

Pike County Sheriff’s Department Press Release

 

On January 12^th at 2:08 AM, The Pike County Sheriff’s Department received a report of an accidental shooting at a residence on Walnut Street in New Canton Illinois. Following the arrival of First Responders, Pike County EMS and Sheriff’s Deputies, a 24 year old male was transported to Blessing Hospital in Quincy for treatment of a gunshot wound to his head.

An investigation into the incident is still ongoing.    Assisting at the scene was The New Canton Fire Department, The Hull Fire Department and Pike County EMS

 Press Release

On January 7^th, 2019 at 11:00 A.M., the Pittsfield Police Department located Joshua S. Hare, age 29, of Beardstown, Illinois.  As the officer attempted to take Hare into custody, Hare fled on foot.  After about twenty (20) minutes, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department apprehended Hare in a field near the Little League Park.  Hare was taken into custody on a Greene County, Illinois warrant.

The Pittsfield Police Department charged Hare with obstructing justice due to Hare providing the officer with a false name.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department charged Hare with failure to register as a sex offender.

Hare remains lodged in the Pike County Jail..

PRESS RELEASE 

12-30-18

On December 28th, 2018, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department executed a court authorized search warrant at 200 South Naples Street in Perry Illinois.

During the execution of the search warrant, 19 year old Jason M. Taylor of Perry Illinois was arrested for Possession of Cannabis with the Intent to Deliver (30 to 500 grams) and Possession of a Controlled Substance.

Taylor was transported to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and lodged pending bond.

Several other individuals were arrested, including juveniles for the offense of Illegal Consumption of Alcohol by a Minor.

An investigation is still ongoing which may lead to further arrests.

The Illinois State Police assisted the Pike County Sheriff’s Department during the service of the search warrant and arrests.

DECEMBER 25th, 2018 PRESS RELEASE

On December 25th, 2018 at 11:41 P.M., the Pike County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop in the 600 block of W. Washington Street in Pittsfield. Subsequent to an investigation the driver, Joshua L. Parks, age 28, of Arnold, Missouri was arrested for driving while license suspended, unlawful possession of methamphetamine less than five grams, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. Parks was transported and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

DECEMBER 24, 2018 PRESS RELEASE

On December 23rd, 2018, the Pike County Sheriff’s Department initiated a criminal investigation regarding a non-compliant sex offender residing in Hull, Pike County, Illinois. Subsequent to an investigation, Roy L. Irick, age 65, of Hull was arrested for the offense of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Irick was transported and lodged in the Pike County Jail.

AUGUST 14, 2018 PRESS RELEASE

On August 13th at approximately 7:15, Pike County Sheriff’s Deputy effected what was believed to be a routine traffic stop on County Hwy #2 near Baylis.  Subsequent to the stop, the deputy searched the Chevrolet SUV and seized Methamphetamine, Controlled Substance in Prescription form, and Drug Paraphernalia.

During the stop, the officer identified the driver as, Cain I. Vincent (18) of Pittsfield and the passenger as Dusty L. Embree (23) of Griggsville.  Embree was taken into custody for an outstanding warrant of arrest in Pike County with a bond of $25,000.  Upon  arrest of Embree, he was placed in handcuffs and search when the deputy located drug paraphernalia on his person.

During a search of the vehicle, Embree fled on foot into a nearby cornfield out of sight of the officer.

A search of the area by Pike County Sheriff’s Department, Illinois State Police, the West Central Illinois Drug Task Force, and other volunteer agencies  including K-9  was cancelled due to darkness.

It is believed that the prisoner fled after witnessing the officer locate felony drugs in the vehicle.

Agents continued the investigation with intelligence gathering the following 24-hours without success.

The escape is not believed to be a danger to the community and has had contact with law enforcement in the past without incident.

Paul F. Petty

NOTICE TO BIDDERS: 4/24/2018

NAME OF PROJECT:  PIKE COUNTY 9-1-1 ETSB/ PIKE COUNTY SHERIFF

BIDS ARE BEING ACCEPTED BY THE PIKE COUNTY ETSB/SHERIFF FOR AN UPGRADE TO THE CURRENT 3 POSITION MOTOROLA CENTRACOM GOLD ELITE DISPATCH SYSTEM.  EQUIVALENT BIDS WILL ALSO BE ACCEPTED.

SPECIFICATIONS MAY BE VIEWED IN PERSON BY APPOINTMENT ONLY AT:

PIKE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

PITTSFIELD, IL

AN APPOINTMENT CAN BE MADE BY EMAILING SANDY SCHACHT AT SSCHACHT@PIKECOUNTYSD.ORG.   REQUEST TO EMAIL OR MAIL BID SPECIFICATIONS CAN BE DONE BY EMAILING SANDY SCHACHT AT SSCHACHT@PIKECOUNTYSD.ORG

EACH BID SHALL BE ENCLOSED IN A SEALED ENVELOPE BEARING THE NAME OF PROJECT.  NAME OF THE SUBMITTING FIRM, AND THE BID DUE DATE.

* OTHER PROPOSALS WILL BE ACCEPTED AS LONG AS THEY MEET THE SPECIFICATIONS IN PROPOSAL TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THE DISPATCH SYSTEM *

IF A VENDOR OTHER THAN MOTOROLA DIRECT SUBMITS BID, VENDOR MUST SUPPLY A COMPLETED MANUFACTURER’S CERTIFICATION, OR A LETTER FROM THE MOTOROLA PROVIDING CERTIFICATION, SUBMITTED ALONG WITH BID, WHICH CERTIFIES THAT, THAT VENDOR IS AUTHORIZED TO SUBMIT SUCH BID.

PIKE COUNTY ETSB/ SHERIFF RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY OR ALL PROPOSALS, TO WAIVE ANY IRREGULARITIES AND/OR IN-FORMALITIES IN THE PROPOSALS AND TO MAKE AN AWARD IN A MANNER CONSISTENT WITH THE LAW DEEMED TO BE IN THE BEST INTEREST OF PIKE COUNTY.

THE BIDS WILL BE TURNED IN NO LATER THAN 2:00 O’COLOCK P.M. ON FRIDAY, MAY 18^th , 2018 AT THE PIKE COUNTY SHERIFF/JAIL 204 EAST ADAMS PITTSFIELD ILLINOIS 62363.

PIKE COUNTY 911 ETSB/ PIKE COUNTY SHERIFF

DATED: APRIL 24^th, 2018

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PRESS RELEASE 3/29/18

On 03/24/18 The Pike County Sheriffs Department received a call from a senior citizen North of Barry that she believed was    a victim of a possible Home Repair Fraud.

The victim indicated that she was approached by two white males at her residence on 03/23/18. The males indicated to her that the lightning rods on her house needed to be recharged. The victim indicated that the males were very persuasive. The victim eventually wrote out a check to the males.

An investigation was started by the Pike County Sheriffs Department. During the course of the investigation the Sheriffs Department was able to identify the two males. One male that was identified is Brian S. Ellis age 45 from Hannibal, Missouri. A warrant was issued for Ellis for Aggravated Home Repair Fraud.

On 03/28/18 officers from the Pike County Sheriffs Department along with officers from Hannibal, Missouri Police Department apprehended Ellis at his residence in Hannibal.

Ellis was transported to the Pike County Jail where he awaits bond.

OPEN FIRES:   

CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION

Fire Weather Alert:   02/16/2017

URGENT – FIRE WEATHER MESSAGE National Weather Service Saint Louis MO 202 PM CST Thu Feb 16 2017 ILZ095-097-098-MOZ018-019-026-027-035-036-061-063>065-072-073- 170000- /O.EXA.KLSX.FW.W.0001.000000T0000Z-170217T0000Z/ Adams IL-Calhoun IL-Crawford MO-Jefferson MO-Knox MO-Lewis MO- Marion MO-Pike IL-Pike MO-Ralls MO-Saint Charles MO- Saint Louis City MO-Saint Louis MO-Shelby MO-Washington MO- 202 PM CST Thu Feb 16 2017 …RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM CST THIS EVENING FOR WIND AND LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY FOR MOST OF EASTERN MISSOURI AND PARTS OF WEST CENTRAL ILLINOIS… The National Weather Service in Saint Louis has issued a Red Flag Warning for wind and low relative humidity…which is in effect until 6 PM CST this evening. * AFFECTED AREA…In Illinois…Fire Weather Zones 095…097 and  098. In Missouri…Fire Weather Zones 018…019…026…027…  035…036…061…063…064…065…072 and 073. * 20 FOOT WINDS…Southwest 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY…As low as 18 percent. * 10 HOUR FUELS…less than 9 percent. * IMPACTS…these conditions are conducive for the rapid spread  and growth of uncontrolled wildfires. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS… A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now… or will shortly. A combination of strong winds… low relative humidity… and dry fuels can contribute to extreme fire behavior. A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and dry fuels can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

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To:        News Media

From:    Sheriff  

Date:     November 23, 2016

Re:        Recent Arrests          

On Tuesday, November 22nd at approximately 11:07 am, Pike County Sheriff’s Department with assistance from the Pittsfield Police Department and the West Central Illinois Drug Task Force executed a court authorized search warrant in the 400 Block of East North Street in Pittsfield near the Little League Ball Field without incident.

Arrested as a result of the search included:

Ricky L. Allen (42) of Pittsfield for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Meth Manufacturing Waste, Possession of Meth Manufacturing Materials, and Endangering the Life of a Child.

Sasha A. Smith (28) of Pittsfield for Possession of Methamphetamine & Endangering the Life of a Child. .Both individuals remain lodged at the Pike County Jail pending court appearance.

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Press Release

To:        News Media

From:    Sheriff      

Date:     November 23, 2016

Re:        Recent Arrests          

On Wednesday, November 23^rd at approximately 5:41 am, Pike County Sheriff’s Department with assistance from the West Central Illinois Drug Task Force and the Illinois State Police executed a court authorized search warrant on Blue Street in Milton, IL. Michael J. Wallace (51) of Nebo was immediately taken into custody on an outstanding warrant of arrest for Revocation of Bail Bond and transported to the Pike County Jail.

Subsequent to the search, police located the targets in the investigation in Barry, IL at the Barry Travel Plaza. Arrested as a result of the investigation included:

Shelby R. Mulford (21) of Pittsfield for Possession of Controlled Substance and Burglary.

Kensey R. Mesey (23) of Milton for Possession of Controlled Substance and Burglary.

The investigation concludes a 24-hour investigation involving a residential burglary in Pike County which involved the theft of United States Currency and private property.

All three individuals remain lodged in the Pike County Jail pending court appearance.

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MAY 18, 2016

On Wednesday, May 18, 2016 at approximately 11:26 am, Pike County Dispatch received a 9-1-1 call regarding students inside a vehicle on the grounds at Pittsfield High School that where brandishing a handgun.  The students departed the grounds and were subsequently pulled over at the intersection of Washington Street and Monroe Street in downtown Pittsfield.

Both the Pittsfield City Police and the Pike County Sheriff’s Department immediately identified five students inside the 1990 Buick LeSabre.  All five students were taken to the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and temporarily detained.

Recovered as a result of stop included a look alike Colt 1911-A1 spring loaded firearm.  Four students were released to the custody of their parents or guardians following the investigation.

A non-student juvenile inside the vehicle was arrested as a result of the incident and charged with Unlawful Use of Weapon, Disorderly Conduct, and Retail Theft from an incident earlier in the morning involving a local business.  The juvenile was transferred to the Adams County Juvenile Detention Center until court appearance.

The Illinois State Police assisted in the joint investigation.

Pittsfield City Police Chief Kenny Yelliott was quick to commend the officers involved in the investigation and the schools response to the situation.  “These types of incidents require numerous resources working together to successfully bring the situation to resolve.  The school identified the type of incident immediately and initiated their lock down protocol for all three schools in the district.  The primary goal is to immediately address the safety and security of the students, faculty, and institutions.  The school assisted in bring this incident to an end almost immediately while ensuring the safety of every student and staff member and working closely with law enforcement” said Chief Yelliott.

Captain John Pennock, Pike County Sheriff’s Department said, “The dispatch and response of this incident went extremely well with both agencies working together to identify, secure, and remove a potential threat in the community.  We were fortunate to resolve this issue almost immediately” said Captain Pennock.

APRIL 4, 2016

Phone Scams Continue to be a Serious Threat, Remain on IRS “Dirty Dozen” List of Tax Scams for the 2016 Filing Season

IRS YouTube Video
Tax Scams: English | Spanish | ASL
Security Summit Identity Theft Tips Overview: English
Be Cautious When Using Wi-Fi: English
Update Your Password Regularly: English

IR-2016-14, Feb. 2, 2016                                                                                            Español

WASHINGTON — Aggressive and threatening phone calls by criminals impersonating IRS agents remain a major threat to taxpayers, headlining the annual “Dirty Dozen” list of tax scams for the 2016 filing season, the Internal Revenue Service announced today.

The IRS has seen a surge of these phone scams as scam artists threaten police arrest, deportation, license revocation and other things. The IRS reminds taxpayers to guard against all sorts of con games that arise during any filing season.

“Taxpayers across the nation face a deluge of these aggressive phone scams. Don’t be fooled by callers pretending to be from the IRS in an attempt to steal your money,” said IRS Commissioner John Koskinen. “We continue to say if you are surprised to be hearing from us, then you’re not hearing from us.”

“There are many variations. The caller may threaten you with arrest or court action to trick you into making a payment,” Koskinen added. “Some schemes may say you’re entitled to a huge refund. These all add up to trouble. Some simple tips can help protect you.”

The Dirty Dozen is compiled annually by the IRS and lists a variety of common scams taxpayers may encounter any time during the year. Many of these con games peak during filing season as people prepare their tax returns or hire someone to do so.

This January, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) announced they have received reports of roughly 896,000 contacts since October 2013 and have become aware of over 5,000 victims who have collectively paid over $26.5 million as a result of the scam.

“The IRS continues working to warn taxpayers about phone scams and other schemes,” Koskinen said. “We especially want to thank the law-enforcement community, tax professionals, consumer advocates, the states, other government agencies and particularly the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration for helping us in this battle against these persistent phone scams.”

Protect Yourself

Scammers make unsolicited calls claiming to be IRS officials. They demand that the victim pay a bogus tax bill. They con the victim into sending cash, usually through a prepaid debit card or wire transfer. They may also leave “urgent” callback requests through phone “robo-calls,” or via a phishing email.

Many phone scams use threats to intimidate and bully a victim into paying. They may even threaten to arrest, deport or revoke the license of their victim if they don’t get the money.

Scammers often alter caller ID numbers to make it look like the IRS or another agency is calling. The callers use IRS titles and fake badge numbers to appear legitimate. They may use the victim’s name, address and other personal information to make the call sound official.

Here are five things the scammers often do but the IRS will not do. Any one of these five things is a tell-tale sign of a scam.

The IRS will never:

• • Call to demand immediate payment, nor will the agency call about taxes owed without first having mailed you a bill.
  • Demand that you pay taxes without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe.
  • Require you to use a specific payment method for your taxes, such as a prepaid debit card.
  • Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.

• Threaten to bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have you arrested for not paying.

If you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from the IRS and asking for money, here’s what you should do:

If you don’t owe taxes, or have no reason to think that you do:

• • Do not give out any information. Hang up immediately.
  • Contact TIGTA to report the call. Use their “IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting” web page. You can also call 800-366-4484.

• Report it to the Federal Trade Commission. Use the “FTC Complaint Assistant” on FTC.gov. Please add “IRS Telephone Scam” in the notes.

If you know you owe, or think you may owe tax:

• Call the IRS at 800-829-1040. IRS workers can help you.

Stay alert to scams that use the IRS as a lure. Tax scams can happen any time of year, not just at tax time. For more, visit “Tax Scams and Consumer Alerts” on IRS.gov.

Each and every taxpayer has a set of fundamental rights they should be aware of when dealing with the IRS. These are your Taxpayer Bill of Rights. Explore your rights and our obligations to protect them on IRS.gov.

NOVEMBER 20, 2015

The Pike County, Illinois Sheriff’s Office arrested Harley Davidson Johnson, of Griggsville, Illinois for armed robbery Friday night.

According to a news release, deputies responded to the BP Gas Station in Pittsfield on West Washington Street around 9 p.m.

Upon arrival, deputies were able to collect information from store employees and immediately found multiple suspects.

Officials from the Pittsfield Police, Pike County Sheriff’s Office and Illinois State Police recovered evidence in the crime including a handgun and money.

The investigation is ongoing and three individuals have been taken into custody

NOVEMBER 5, 2015

PRESS RELEASE:

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department would like to inform the public of two separate scams recently circulating the Pike County area.

One of the scams is a telephone recording that claims they are from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and requesting a return call and leaving a number.  It states that the IRS has tried to contact you numerous times and if you do not contact them , you will be subject to a lawsuit. Please be advised that the IRS will not be telephoning anyone to collect monies owed.  THIS IS AN ABSOLUTE SCAM and to date, this scam has taken thousands of dollars nationwide.   Do not return the call or attempt to investigate the matter in any manner as they will attempt to use tactics by scam artists that are extremely sophisticated in nature.

The second scam is generally over the internet including face book and email.  The scam artist claims to be in need of funding so that he may come visit you.  The scam artists involved are extremely good at human resource skills and very personable in nature.  They will make every effort to make you feel like a close friend.

Pike County has spent several thousand dollars in these types of scams.  We encourage all residents of this community to not respond to anyone wanting money from strangers and particularly from anyone using tactics such as threatening legal trouble or coercion.

We remind all citizens to hang up the phone and absolutely do not return any phone calls.

If you are a person who has released funding in the past, you are more than likely labeled as a more susceptible victim to scam artists.  Change your email and refrain from using face book for a period of time to release such contacts.

If you are aware of a loved one who has fallen prey to these scams, we encourage you to report the incident to law enforcement and we further encourage you to monitor your loved ones financial business by contacting your local bank and advising them of the situation.  Our local banks and stores with the ability to wire money are extremely aware of these scams and will make every effort to help those in need.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2015

On 09/16/15 at 6:16 AM the Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a report of a two vehicle head on collision on County Highway #3, a quarter of mile South of Interstate 72.

A 2004 Pontiac, being driven by Bryce A Reel, age 23, of Pittsfield, Illinois was traveling north bound on County Highway 3, when the vehicle being driven by Reel collided head on with a 2002 Chevrolet truck that was traveling southbound. The 2002 Chevrolet Truck was driven by William C. Miller age 49 of Baylis, Illinois.

Reel had to be extricated from his vehicle and received severe injuries and was airlifted from the scene. Miller received minor injuries and was later treated at Illini Community Hospital.

The accident remains under investigation.

Assisting at the scene were Pike County EMS, Pittsfield Fire Department and Air Evac.

July 31, 2015

…Pike County, IL Enhanced 9-1-1 Vesta 4 Phone System

Indigital and Airbus Corporation assisted Pike County 9-1-1 with the replacement of their aging phone system with an Airbus Vesta 4 Call-Taking Next Generation 9-1-1 telecommunications system.

 Indigital is an authorized dealer for Airbus Communications solutions. The Vesta 4 offers a full range of features and functionality including: intelligent user interface, automatic call recovery, low power consumption, high reliability and cost-effective scalability, digital end-to-end IP, and remote access and maintenance. 

With the phone system upgrade and existing CAD system, Pike County’s 911 Coordinator, Sandy Schacht “has been very pleased with the service” they have received. The Coordinator went further to say, “not only do we consider Indigital and Airbus and all their staff a partner, we consider them our friends. Having a partner like Indigital and Airbus on-call 24×7 means a lot to our community and reassures that when a situation comes up we know they are there to support us.” The changes that we made were required by law for our department to be compatible with any future changes to the statewide 9-1-1 system. “Not only does this put us within the technology boundaries as required, but ensures our commitment to providing the optimal environment for our dispatchers to bring the most effective    9-1-1 system to those whom we serve”

# # #

If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Sandy Schacht at 217-285-5263 or email at sschacht@pikecountysd.org.

July 27, 2015

Nationwide Groupon Campaign raises over $335,000 for law enforcement K9 bullet and stab protective vests

The Pike County Sheriff’s Office’s K9 Baxter has received a ballistic vest thanks to a nationwide GROUPON EVENT that has rose over $335,000.00.

The “Occasions ” campaign for Groupon Grassroots to outfit police K9’s with bullet and stab protective vests ran February 15th through March 5^th at 11:59pm Eastern Standard Time.   Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. was the nationwide non-profit organization and charity partner selected by Groupon Grassroots to participate. The online $10 donation suggested interested persons purchase a GROUPON (a tax deductible donation) through the secure website where all funds were allocated to purchase ballistic vests for our four-legged crime fighters who put their lives on the line for the community and their partner.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. will be providing over 350 law enforcement dogs nationwide with the protective body armor in memory of K9 Rocco of the Pittsburgh Police Department who sacrificed his life in the line of duty in January of 2014. All vests will be embroidered with the sentiment, “In Memory of K9 Rocco, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police”.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc a 501c (3) organization is still accepting donations through their website: www.vik9s.org and via mail P.O. Box 9 East Taunton, MA 02718.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. announces their signature tank top is now available online for a $20.00 donation at www.vik9s.org. Proceeds will provide bullet and stab protective vests, for police dogs actively working without the potentially lifesaving equipment.

In 2014, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. partnered with Groupon and was named as one of “The Best of 2014” campaigns. In just over two weeks, the nonprofit raised $335,000.00 providing ballistic vests for 370 law enforcement dogs in 49 states. There are an estimated 30,000 police dogs throughout the United States.

VESTED INTEREST IN K9S, INC.

 

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501c (3) charity located in East Taunton, MA. whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. Each vest costs $1,050.00 and has a 5 year warranty. The nonprofit was established in 2009 to assist law enforcement agencies with this potentially lifesaving body armor for their four legged K9 Officers. Through private and corporate sponsorships, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provided over 1517 law enforcement dogs in 49 states with protective vests since 2009 at a cost of over 1.4 million dollars.

The organization orders the U.S. made vests exclusively from distributor Regency Police Supply in Hyannis, MA. Who also does the custom embroidery on the body armor.

New K9 graduates as well as K9’s with expired vests are eligible to participate. The program is open to law enforcement dogs who are US employed, certified and at least 19 months of age.

For more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Tax deductible donations and event listings are via the website: www.vik9s.org.

June 30, 2015

PRESS RELEASE:

On 06/30/15 at 12:01 PM The Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a one vehicle accident on County Highway #3 at Interstate 72.

Daniel S. Murphy, age 32, of Winchester, Illinois was driving a 2001 Sterling Semi-truck. Murphy was driving westbound on Interstate 72. Murphy exited the off ramp at Exit 31. As Murphy was approaching the stop intersection with County Highway #3, he indicated that he applied his brakes. Murphy indicated his brakes did not work. Murphy made a sharp right hand turn onto County Highway #3. As Murphy was making his turn his wheels caught the edge of the concrete median, causing the tractor trailer to flip over. The unit skidded approximately 88 feet before it came to rest. Murphy sustained minor injuries and had to be extricated from the vehicle. Murphy was air lifted to Memorial Hospital in Springfield, Illinois by Survival Flight.

The accident remains under investigation by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

Assisting at the scene were Pittsfield Fire Department, Pike County EMS, Griggsville Fire Department, North Pike Fire Department , Illinois State Police and Survival Flight.

June 1, 2015

News Release

 On 06/01/15 at 9:56 AM the Pike County Sheriff s Department responded to a report of a one vehicle accident on Interstate 72 at Mile Marker 3. A 2006 Toyota Corolla being driven by Brandon M. Inman, age 25, of Hannibal, Missouri was driving westbound on Interstate 72 when the vehicle left the roadway. The vehicle crossed the median and into the eastbound lane. The vehicle left the roadway traveling parallel with the roadway before it struck a concrete culvert and came to rest.

Inman had to be extricated from the vehicle by the Hull-Kinderhook Fire Department. Inman received severe injuries as a result of the accident. Inman was

Air-lifted from the scene by Survival Flight to Memorial Hospital in Springfield, Illinois.

The accident remains under investigation by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department.

Assisting at the scene were Marion County Missouri EMS, Hannibal Missouri Fire Department, Hull-Kinderhook Fire Department and Pike County EMS.

May 21,2015

Nationwide Groupon Campaign raises over $335,000 for law enforcement K9 protective vests

The Pike County Sheriff’s Office K9 Baxter will be receiving a ballistic vest thanks to a nationwide GROUPON EVENT that has rose over $335,000.00.

The “Occasions ” campaign for Groupon Grassroots to outfit police K9’s with bullet and stab protective vests ran February 15th through March 5^th at 11:59pm Eastern Standard Time.   Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. was the nationwide non-profit organization and charity partner selected by Groupon Grassroots to participate. The online $10 donation suggested interested persons purchase a GROUPON (a tax deductible donation) through the secure website where all funds were allocated to purchase ballistic vests for our four-legged crime fighters who put their lives on the line for the community and their partner.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. announces their “Hog Wild for K9s” t-shirt is now available online for a $15.00 donation at www.vik9s.org. Proceeds from will provide bullet and stab protective vests, for police dogs actively working without the potentially lifesaving equipment.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. will be providing over 350 law enforcement dogs nationwide with the protective body armor in memory of K9 Rocco of the Pittsburgh Police Department who sacrificed his life in the line of duty in January of 2014. All vests will be embroidered with the sentiment, “In Memory of K9 Rocco, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police”.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc a 501c (3) organization is still accepting donations through their website: www.vik9s.org and via mail P.O. Box 9 East Taunton, MA 02718.

In 2014, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. partnered with Groupon and was named as one of “The Best of 2014” campaigns. In just over two weeks, the nonprofit raised $335,000.00 providing ballistic vests for 370 law enforcement dogs in 49 states. There are an estimated 30,000 police dogs throughout the United States.

ABOUT VESTED INTEREST IN K9S, INC.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501c (3) charity located in East Taunton, MA. Whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. Each vest costs $950.00 and has a 5 year warranty. The nonprofit was established in 2009 to assist law enforcement agencies with this potentially lifesaving body armor for their four legged K9 Officers. Through private and corporate sponsorships, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provided over 1400 law enforcement dogs in 49 states with protective vests since 2009 at a cost of over $1.3 million dollars.

The organization orders the U.S. made vests exclusively from distributor Regency Police Supply in Hyannis, MA. Who also does the custom embroidery on the body armor.

New K9 graduates as well as K9’s with expired vests are eligible to participate. The program is open to law enforcement dogs who are US employed, certified and at least 19 months of age.

For more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Tax deductible donations and event listings are via the website: www.vik9s.org

 

 

 

 .

K9 Baxter is a 2 .5 year old Belgian Malinois, he is certified as a Dual Purpose Narcotics Detection/Patrol dog, additionally he is certified as a Tracking and Article Search dog. Baxter is assigned to Deputy Michael Lemons. Deputy Lemons and K9 Baxter completed a 6 week training session at the Vohne Liche Kennels in Denver, Indiana during the months of January-March of 2015.

Baxter was born in Belgium where he was trained in his socialization skills, Baxter was shipped to Slovakia where he was taught his Patrol/Bite Work, Baxter was then returned to Belgium and brought to the United States and was imprinted with the Narcotics training at Vohne Liche Kennels.

Baxter enjoys doing school demonstration for the DARE Program and working with his handler,off duty Baxter loves going for long walks with his new family.

Baxter will play an important role in keeping the County of Pike safe and fighting the war on drugs as well as community relations.

___________________

PIKE COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

204 EAST ADAMS STR EET

PITISFIELD, IL 62363

DECEMBER 2, 2014

Texting scam:

Citizens are receiving text messages stating that their bank card has been locked and to contact 217-806-0448. Remember never to give out any information regarding any financial accounts over the phone.   Contact your financial institution or credit card companies directly.

October 28, 2014

After a joint investigation by the Pittsfield Police Department, the Illinois State Police, the Pike County State’s Attorney and the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, a 45 year old male residing in the area of Detroit has been taken into custody on a Pike County warrant. The subject has been identified as the man seen taking photographs of children in various locations around Pittsfield. He is currently being held at the Pike County Jail. *All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.*

 

 OTHER NEWS:

IDENTITY THEFT AND FRAUD INFORMATION