Semi Stolen During Streator Break-Ins

Authorities believe a Rockford man – now in the county jail – burglarized a north side Streator business and entered nearby residences – all before 5am Thursday. But, how the 27-year old man arrived at Route 23 and North 17^th road before his escapade is unknown.

A Sheriff’s office release said Derek Johnson is charged with burglary and possession of a stolen motor vehicle. “Classic Hits 103-9 WLPO” learned Johnson allegedly burglarized Lukach Seed Agency then stole their semi and trailer. It was also learned the semi and trailer were apparently driven four miles west on North 17^th road. A deputy, responding to a possible burglary found the semi and trailer damaged and sitting in a farmer’s lane.

The Sheriff’s report said another farm building on Route 23 was burglarized, but a name was not given. Police arrested Johnson as he was walking North 17^th road not far from the semi and trailer.

Skoog Believes Budget Should’ve Been Front and Center at State of State

Governor Bruce Rauner covered a number of topics during his State of the State address yesterday, but an Illinois Valley Representative says one of the biggest issues wasn’t really covered.

Andy Skoog is the 76^th District Representative for the General Assembly. He says he was surprised the budget wasn’t front and center:

“The budget impasse is not a game. And, for my district, I’ve seen families and children that are hurting,” Skoog said, “It’s only gonna get worse if we don’t come together and pass a reasonable budget that takes a balanced approach.”

While Skoog was critical of Rauner’s talk about money, he did praise the governor’s remarks about education. Skoog was also excited to attend the State of the State for another reason: yesterday he went to his first committee meetings as a State Representative.

Illinois Valley Counties Vying to Establish Coveted Enterprise Zones

To attract new businesses, it helps to offer perks.

One way to do this is establish an Enterprise Zone which is land usually shared but my than one city that is supposed to encourage job growth and investment in economically depressed areas. Companies in an Enterprise Zone become eligible for tax breaks.

Eighteen regions in Illinois are vying for just 12 zones this year. In the running locally are applications from La Salle, Bureau, Putnam and Marshall Counties.

The Illinois Department of Commerce will pick the winning applicants.

Teen Found Mile Away From Car After Crash Involving Alcohol

Three teens have been arrested after an accident in Lake Holiday where alcohol was involved.

19-year old Robert Lynch Jr of Sandwich struck a tree early Wednesday morning. Lynch was found by Somonauk Police more than a mile from the accident. He was taken to Valley West Hospital in Sandwich. Shortly after that he was arrested for DUI, underage drinking, leaving the scene of an accident, and driving in the wrong lane among other charges.

His two passengers were also arrested. 18-year olds Dominic Todd of Somonauk and Rayanne Curry of Yorkville were both charged with underage drinking.

Lynch was given an individual bond, Todd and Curry were given notices to appear.

DeKalb Teen Seriously Injured in Wednesday Crash

It’s important to avoid driving if you’re too tired, that’s what police believe led to a serious crash in DeKalb.

18-year old Noah Fifield-Lemaster was going north on Pleasant Hill Rd north of Thurlby Wednesday afternoon when his car drifted onto the side of the road. Fifield-Lemaster allegedly then swerved across both lanes into the oncoming lane shoulder, where he hit a utility pole.

Fifield-Lemaster was transported to OSF Saint Anthony’s where he is being treated for severe injuries. The crash itself is still under investigation.