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School board approves asphalt projects with objection

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Elementary Principal Turcol presented Tenley Bussmann and Isabelle Balzraine with a certificate of recognition and a $25 Walmart gift certificate for having perfect attendance for kindergarten through the fifth grade.

Elementary Principal Turcol presented Tenley Bussmann and Isabelle Balzraine with a certificate of recognition and a $25 Walmart gift certificate for having perfect attendance for kindergarten through the fifth grade.

With one dissenting vote, the Community Unit School District 7 Board of Education on Monday night approved projects to pave two areas behind the Gillespie high school/middle school complex with asphalt, and voted unanimously to repave the district’s bus lot with rock chips. The asphalt projects—covering an area behind the Middle School gym and an area behind the high school gym and breezeway between the gym and school building—will basically complete a three-year project to pave critical areas associated with the school complex. DeLaurent Construction Co., Wilsonville, will do the work at a total cost of $41,431.

The board also unanimously approved a plan to alter the BenGil Elementary School’s federal Title grant program from a “targeted assistance” program to a school-wide program—a move that will give the district more flexibility in how it uses Title program grant money and limit the amount of grant money used to make pension contributions for Title program teachers. Additionally the board held a lengthy discussion about using a fingerprint system for students participating in the school lunch and breakfast programs in lieu of using identification cards.

ASPHALTING PROJECT AND GMS SCIENCE LAB

Board member Weye Schmidt expressed strong objections to approving projects to asphalt two areas behind Gillespie High School and Middle School this summer, saying the board had committed to spending no more revenue from the County School Facilities Sales Tax for paving projects until after it spent some of the funds on classroom improvements. Specifically, he noted the board had discussed building a middle school science lab and renovating the high school vocational education facility before approving more infrastructure improvements. Supt. Tieman and several board members, however, said the two projects approved Monday night were part of an overall program approved by the board earlier.

Schmidt voted against a motion to have DeLaurent Construction asphalt an area used for boarding buses directly behind the middle school gym at a cost of $17,985, as well as a second motion to asphalt an area behind the high school gym/breezeway at a cost of $15,998. Schmidt did, however, support a motion to rock and chip the school district’s bus lot at a cost of $7,448, also with DeLaurent Construction doing the project.

The projects will complete a three-year program to asphalt critical areas around the high school/middle school complex.

The projects will complete a three-year program to asphalt critical areas around the high school/middle school complex. Previously, the district completed asphalt paving of an area in front of the middle school and bus turn-around lanes behind the building complex. The two asphalt projects will virtually result in the entire area behind the school being paved with asphalt.

Earlier in the meeting, Tieman reported that the paving projects had been a major topic of discussion during a meeting of the Building and Grounds Committee a week earlier. He provided the board with estimates of anticipated sales tax revenue for the coming year, based on what the district has received so far this year. Accounting for $66,000 the board spent for concrete and asphalt paving projects last year and a commitment of 20 percent of sales tax revenue for reducing bond indebtedness, Tieman said the district should clear $142,000 in sale tax revenue at the end of the year. With carry-over funds from the previous year “we would be sitting with $400,000 in funds as we approach the science lab project,” he said.

“I think we agreed we would not be doing any more paving and concrete work until we do something with classrooms,” Schmidt said. Last year, the district spent more than $66,000 for sidewalk repairs and asphalting, he said. Approving $41,000 in additional paving projects Monday night, $32,000 of which was for asphalt, would bring the total to “$108,000, according to Schmidt. “I don’t know how we can justify spending $32,000 on concrete and asphalt when we don’t know what the science lab is going to cost.”

He also suggested the areas targeted for asphalting are “not that bad” and not in immediate need of attention.

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“I looked at these areas and I feel all three need to be done,” President Mark Hayes said. Hayes also argued for doing both asphalting projects at the same time to reduce seams and result in a better overall product. “The one behind the high school is not as bad, but you’ll get a better product by doing both of them at the same time.”

While acknowledging Schmidt’s concerns, board member Bill Carter said the board agreed to do the additional paving as part of an overall project approved last year. “We talked at length about that whole area,” he said.

Tieman suggested that as an alternative, the board could chose to pay for the paving projects from the district’s Operations Fund instead of the Sales Tax Fund, but that action would reduce the amount of money available in Operations for the coming year. Addressing the area behind the high school, he noted that it has been paved with rock and chips in the past but that surface is subject to being displaced during snow removal in the winter. “Rock and chip is great but you get more bang for your buck with asphalt if you can afford it,” he said.

“Rock and chip is great but you get more bang for your buck with asphalt if you can afford it,” he said.

In a related matter, Tieman noted the Building and Grounds Committee also held preliminary discussions regarding a new science lab for the middle school. Tentative plans are to consolidate three rooms at the north end of the classroom wing across the hall from the band/chorus room and move the east wall two feet into the hallway to create a new space for the science lab. In addition to classroom space, the new room would include a fully equipped chemistry/science lab and a robotics lab. Tieman said the school architect will complete detailed renderings for the board’s review at a later date. In the meantime, he said he anticipates taking the board to the building in September to view the area in which the anticipated lab will be built.

“This is our opportunity to do this and benefit 300-plus kids,” Tieman said. “The idea is that by starting at this (middle school) level, there is a trickle up effect and our high school program can adjust to kids coming in with those skills.”

If the board approves the science lab project, Tieman said construction could begin next June.

While no firm cost projections have been done, Schmidt asked Tieman to speculate about the potential cost of the project during the discussion on the paving projects.

“If we do everything we want to do,” Tieman said, “that lab probably will come in at about $500,000.” The cost, however, could be spread over two to three years if the board chooses, depending upon sales tax revenue and other expenses.

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TITLE PROGRAM ALTERATION

On a motion by Peyton Bernot, seconded by Dennis Tiburzi, the board approved a measure to switch the federal Title grant program at BenGil Elementary School from a “targeted assistance” program to a school-wide program.

Tieman said the current “targeted assistance” designation forces the district to pay Title teachers with Title grant funds, which necessitates the district to making federal Teacher Retirement System contributions for in the amount of 38 percent for those staff members. Switching to a school-wide program will allow the district to take Title teacher salaries from the Education Fund and make state TRS contributions at the level of nine percent.

“Right now, you’re losing a dollar for every three you pay in teacher salaries just in TRS,” Tieman said.

“Right now, you’re losing a dollar for every three you pay in teacher salaries just in TRS,” Tieman said.

Moreover, the change will allow the district to use Title grant money for staff development for all elementary teachers, rather than Title teachers only.

Elementary Principal Angela Turcol, who drafted the plan to change the designation, said the move will allow for more flexibility in how Title grant funds are spent and the number of students benefitting from those expenditures. For example, she said, under the current designation, only students enrolled in Title programs would be able to use computers or other equipment purchased with Title grant money. Changing the designation to a school-wide program will enable other students to also use the equipment.

“It will benefit more students,” she said. “It gives us more leeway, especially when it comes to purchasing technology or other resources.”

FINGERPRINTS FOR LUNCH

Tieman said he will add an agenda item next month for the board to vote on whether or not to authorize a fingerprint reading system for administering the district’s lunch and breakfast programs. Currently, students participating in the school lunch program are issued identification cards that are scanned by clerical staff during lunch and breakfast periods. Those cards then have to be sorted by classroom and returned to the students in the afternoon. Tieman said administrators are proposing a fingerprint reading system in which participants’ fingerprints will be entered into the system. During lunch and breakfast periods, students would simply place their finger on a computerized reader that would then read the fingerprint and clear the student to receive his or her meal.

“Right now we use cards that are scanned,” said GMS Principal Jill Rosentreter, “which sounds good but in reality it’s not. It’s a nightmare.” She said the current system requires an inordinate amount of staff time to administer and requires staff to deal with the issue of lost or damaged cards.

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She said district technology coordinator Mark Carpani is looking into the fingerprint system.

She said district technology coordinator Mark Carpani is looking into the fingerprint system. The current estimate is that the district can buy the units for $2,500 per pair and that two pairs would be needed for a total cost of about $5,000. All three building administrators said similar systems are being used successfully at other schools. One possible pitfall, they said, would be the need for waivers for parents or guardians who might object to the school district having their children’s fingerprints on file. Newly hired High School Principal Shane Owsley said the North-Mac School District, where he was previously employed, has used a fingerprint system successfully and has had no complaints from parents.

PERFECT ATTENDANCE

Early in the meeting, the board recognized three district students who had perfect attendance for several consecutive years. Tieman noted that Allison Bires, a senior who graduated this year, had perfect school attendance all four years of her high school career. Elementary Principal Turcol presented Tenley Bussmann and Isabelle Balzraine with a certificate of recognition and a $25 Walmart gift certificate for having perfect attendance for kindergarten through the fifth grade. Bires, who was unable to attend the meeting, will receive a certificate of recognition and a $25 check.

When I found out we had some students who had not missed a day of school all year, I thought that was amazing.

“A great attendance record to me is you’re in school 98 or 99 percent of the time,” Tieman said. “When I found out we had some students who had not missed a day of school all year, I thought that was amazing. Then I had a principal say to me, ‘Hey, we have kids who haven’t missed a day of school in their entire career’.”

Tieman congratulated the students and thanked their parents for “making attending school a priority.”

SCHOOL FUNDING

Tieman distributed to the board a copy of a statement he sent to local media outlets urging passage of Senate Bill 1, sponsored in part by local Sen. Andy Manar, which will change the way the state funds local schools if passed and signed into law by the governor.

“As a superintendent, I’m supportive of that,” Tieman said. “I think it’s a more equitable way of funding education.”

If it becomes law, Tieman said, the legislation would result in the district receiving about $623,673 in additional state aid.

The full text of Tieman’s statement appears elsewhere on the BenGil Post website.

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COACHING STAFF

By a unanimous vote, the board approved a roster of high school and middle school athletic coaches for the 2017-18 school year as follows:

  • HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL: Celia Jubelt, head coach; Tara Allen, assistant.
  • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL: Jack Burns, freshman head coach; Don Dobrino and Randy Redmon, volunteers.
  • HIGH SCHOOL BOYS’ SOCCER: Devon Schoen.
  • HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS’ BASKETBALL: Kevin Gray, head coach; Christina Blevins, varsity assistant.
  • HIGH SCHOOL BOYS’ BASKETBALL: Casey Sholtis, head coach; Matt Brawner, varsity assistant; Dan Edgerton, assistant.
  • HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS’ TRACK: Jack Burns, head coach.
  • HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADING: Kenna Moats.
  • HIGH SCHOOL BOYS’ TRACK: Mike Bertagnolli.
  • HIGH SCHOOL TRACK ASSISTANT: Jeff Nehls.
  • HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL: Michelle Smith, head coach; Joe Kelly, assistant; Jim Matesa, volunteer.
  • HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL: Jeremy Smith, head coach; Tim Wargo, assistant; Adam Tallman and Dan Smith, volunteers.
  • MIDDLE SCHOOL BASEBALL: Jeremy Smith, head coach; Tim Wargo, assistant.
  • MIDDLE SCHOOL CHEER COACH: Gina Frensko, head coach; Kylie Frensko, assistant.
  • MIDDLE SCHOOL 8th GRADE BASKETBALL COACH: Stuart Ringer.
  • MIDDLE SCHOOL 7th GRADE BASKETBALL COACH: Tim Wargo.
  • MIDDLE SCHOOL 8th GRADE VOLLEYBALL COACH: Celia Jubelt.
  • MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS’ TRACK COACH: Christina Blevins.
  • MIDDLE SCHOOL BOYS’ TRACK COACH: Casey Niehaus.
  • MIDDLE SCHOOL SCHOLAR BOWL COACH: Kyle Lamore.

In a separate action, the board approved the appointment of Matt Brown as a volunteer high school football coach for the 2017-18 school year, pending certification.

ATHLETIC RECOGNITION

Tieman took a few minutes to publicly recognize several student athletes from the school district who have been recently recognized for their performance during the past year.

Tieman noted that Addison Bryant was included on the State Journal-Register’s All Area Softball Team and was a first team designee on the All State Softball Team. Mackenzie Kassarda was named to the second team All-State Softball team, and Rylee Jarman and Rylee Sarti were both named for third team honors.

Tate Wargo was named to the State Journal Register All Area Baseball Team.

OTHER ACTION

In other action, the board:

  • Voted to award a contract to Kohl’s Wholesale, Quincy, to provide commodities for the district’s school lunch and breakfast programs.
  • Approved draft student handbooks for the elementary, middle school and high school for the coming school year.
  • Renewed the district’s policy with Blue Cross/Blue Shield for health insurance. Tieman said he was able to negotiate a one percent increase in the premium while keeping the same level of coverage and the same deductibles. “Across the industry, that’s basically unheard of,” he said. “Blue Cross/Blue Shield likes the stability of our district.”
  • Renewed an Intergovernmental Transportation Agreement with Jerseyville Community Unit School District 100 to transport a local student to the Illinois School for the Deaf in Jacksonville during the coming school year.
  • Approved a required measure certifying that the district will only employ contractors who pay their employees prevailing wages as determined by the Department of Labor.

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Police News

Gillespie Police Report: March 17-23, 2024

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SUNDAY, MARCH 17, 2024

An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Elm Street in reference to criminal damage to property.

An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Biddle Street in reference to child abuse.

An officer was dispatched to the 800 block of East Walnut Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.

An officer was dispatched to Madison Street and Wilson Street in reference to suspicious activity.

An officer was dispatched to the 800 block of East Chestnut Street in Benld in reference to a well-being check.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to a civil issue.

An officer was out in the 400 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to a security check. 

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MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2024

An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Abba Street in reference to a domestic dispute.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of LJ Avenue in reference to a domestic battery. Regan M. Treadway, 22, of Hillsboro was arrested for domestic battery.

Gillespie Police Department assisted the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department with a criminal investigation.

An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of South Madison Street in reference to criminal damage to property.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of East Burton Street in reference to an ordinance issue of illegal burning. Charles H. Daubman, 62, of Gillespie was issued a citation for illegal burning.

An officer was dispatched to the 800 block of Harding Avenue in East Gillespie in reference to a noise complaint.

An officer during normal patrol in the 100 block of South 7th Street in Benld noticed a trunk open on a vehicle. The officer made contact with the owners and they secured the trunk after checking it.

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An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of North 4th Street in Benld in reference to a suspicious person.

An officer was dispatched to Gillespie Police Department to speak with a male in reference to illegal dumping.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Hickory in reference to a civil standby.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of South 2nd Street in Benld in reference to a well-being check.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Easton Street in reference to a civil standby.

The School Resource Officer called in requesting assistance in reference to a female student that had left the school.

TUESDAY, MARCH 19, 2024

An officer was dispatched to the 800 block of Madison Street in reference to criminal damage to property.

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An officer was dispatched to Route 4 by the nursing home to check on a person on a bike with no lights.

An officer was dispatched to Maple Street and Route 138 in Benld in reference to a suspicious vehicle.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of East Spruce Street in reference to a suspicious vehicle.

An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Gillespie Street in reference to juvenile issues.

An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of East Walnut Street in reference to a dog at large.

An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to an animal complaint.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2024

An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Avenue and 2nd Street in Benld. Logan G. Lawson, 22, of Roodhouse was issued a citation for speeding.

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An officer initiated a traffic stop in the 200 block of North Hard Road in Mt. Clare. David E. Schmidt, 46, of Staunton was issued citations for speeding, expired registration, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Spruce Street in reference to illegal parking.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of South Jersey Street in reference to an open line 911 call.

An officer initiated a traffic stop at Broadway Street and LJ Avenue. Candace N. Carlen, 36, of New Douglas was issued a citation for speeding.

An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a theft in the 200 block of West Oak Street.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to a suspicious noise.

An officer was dispatched to West Dorsey Street and South Kentucky Street in Benld in reference to a suspicious person.

An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of East Walnut Street in reference to suspicious activity.

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An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of East Elm Street in reference to reckless driving.

An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Biddle Street in reference to a medical assist.

An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Avenue and Main Street in Benld. Esha V. Bhatt, 30, of Edwardsville was issued a citation for speeding.

An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Avenue and Main Street in Benld. Nicole L Richey, 34, of Wilsonville was issued a citation for speeding and expired registration.

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2024

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of South 4th Street in Benld in reference to a suspicious person.

An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of 9th Street in Benld in reference to a suicidal subject

An officer was out with a suspicious person at Main Street and Spruce Street in Benld.

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An officer initiated a traffic stop at Macoupin Street and Elm Street. Walter L. Vester, 29, of Gillespie was arrested on a Glenn Carbon warrant for larceny.

An officer initiated a traffic stop at Broadway Street and LJ Avenue. Jordan L. Jett, 23, of Hillsboro was issued a citation for speeding.

An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Litchfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to aggravated assault. Levi T. Kroll, 34, of Carlinville was arrested for aggravated assault, criminal damage to property, and operation of a vehicle with suspended registration.

An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of North 5th Street in Benld in reference to a theft.

An officer was dispatched to LJ Avenue where multiple vehicles were parked in a no-parking zone. After multiple announcements asking them to move, two vehicles remained and received citations. Jeromy J Moore, 47, of Greenfield and Matthew E. Raffety, 52, of Bunker Hill were issued citations for parking in a no-parking zone.

An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of East Walnut Street in reference to a domestic battery. Mitchela P. Zbornak, 34, of Gillespie was arrested for domestic battery.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of West Wilson Street in reference to a suspicious vehicle.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to a juvenile issue.

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An officer was dispatched to the 800 block of Madison Street in reference to an animal complaint.

An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of West Oak Street in reference to an ordinance issue for illegal burning.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of West Oak Street in reference to a possible burglary.

The School Resource Officer called in reckless driving in the high school parking lot.

FRIDAY, MARCH 22, 2024

An officer was dispatched to a business in the 900 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to retail theft and criminal trespass.

An officer was dispatched to Illinois Street and Kentucky Street in Benld in reference to a loud vehicle.

An officer was dispatched to a business in the 500 block of East Elm Street in reference to a suspicious person. 

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SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 2024

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Oak Street in reference to a well-being check.

An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to a 911 hang-up call.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of East Oak for a 911 untraceable call the officers checked the area and were unable to find an emergency.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of South Illinois Street in Benld in reference to a medical assist.

An officer was dispatched to down wires at Dorsey Road and 1st Street in Mt. Clare. Ameren was contacted to remove the wiring.

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

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Gillespie Police Report: March 10-16, 2024

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SUNDAY, MARCH 10, 2024

An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Avenue and Main Street in Benld. Stephanie M. Lasica, 29, of Mt. Clare was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding, and overtaking on the left lane.

An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of West Wilson Street in reference to a domestic dispute.

An officer was dispatched to 600 block of Frey Street in reference to an assault.

An officer initiated a traffic stop at Springfield Road and Elm Street in East Gillespie. Thor S. Barnes, 43, of Forest Grove, OR was arrested for operating an uninsured motor vehicle, illegal transportation of alcohol, and improper use of evidence of registration.

An officer was dispatched to South Main and South 2nd Street in Benld in reference to a suspicious vehicle.

An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to a well-being check.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Willow Street in Benld in reference to harassment by telephone.

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MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2024

Gaberial A. Desherlia, 22, of Gillespie was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to a suspicious item that was left by a building.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to a traffic crash.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Park Street in Benld in reference to a domestic battery. Cynthia D. Edwards, 55, of Benld was arrested for domestic battery.

An officer was dispatched to a business in the 900 block of North Hard Road in Mt. Clare in reference to an alarm sounding.

An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of First Street in reference to disturbing the peace.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of North 4th Street in Benld in reference to an animal complaint.

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An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of North Lincoln Street in Eagarville in reference to a domestic dispute.

TUESDAY, MARCH 12, 2024

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Osie Street in reference to a suspicious noise.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to a medical assist.

Logan M. Billings, 34, of Benld was arrested on a Macoupin County warrant for aggravated battery.

The officers were dispatched to 5th Street and Spruce Street in Benld in reference to a suspicious noise.

An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Avenue and Main Street in Benld. A 16-year-old from Gillespie was issued a citation for speeding.

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An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of North 5th Street in Benld in reference to a found item left on a porch.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to criminal trespass to property.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13, 2024

An officer dispatched to the 200 block of East Locust Street in Benld in reference to a domestic battery. Brandon M. Lyons, 43, of Gillespie was arrested for aggravated domestic battery.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Avenue in reference to criminal damage to property.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Oregon Street in reference to a suspicious circumstance.

An officer was dispatched to West Maple Street and North Jersey Street in reference to reckless driving.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to a well-being check.

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An officer assisted an Alderman with an Ordinance issue in the 100 block of Henry Street.

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2024

An officer was dispatched to 200 block of West Dorsey Street in Benld in reference to a violation of an order of protection.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Central Avenue in Benld in reference to criminal damage to property.

An officer initiated a traffic stop at Spruce Street and 5th Street in Benld. Dallas W. Richardson, 29, of Benld was arrested for improper use of evidence of registration and expired registration.

An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a violation of an order of protection.

An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of South Hard Road in Benld in reference to a well-being check.

An officer was dispatched to LJ Avenue and Broadway Street in reference to illegal parking.

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An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Avenue in reference to criminal trespass to property.

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2024

An officer was approached by a female in the 900 block of North Hard Road in Mt. Clare and reported suspicious behavior.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Charles Street in reference to a medical assist.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Pine Street in reference to a security check.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Dorsey Street in reference to the violation of an order of protection.

An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Mor Street in East Gillespie in reference to a well-being check.

An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Broadway Street in reference to a suspicious person.

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An officer was out in the 100 block of South 4th Street in Benld to speak with a male in reference to criminal trespass.

An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to an ordinance issue of illegal burning.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of South Main Street in Benld in reference to criminal trespass.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Francis Street in reference to a suspicious person.

An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 500 block of Horizon Street.

SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2024

An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Green Street in reference to a suspicious noise.

An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of Broadway Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.

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An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a theft in the 700 block of Frey Street.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Easton Street in reference to a domestic. David L. Clark, 31, of Gillespie was arrested for domestic battery.

An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 200 block of South Macoupin Street.

An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of North 5th Street in reference to traffic control.

An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 300 block of South Street

An officer was out at Madison Street and Spruce Street in reference to juvenile issues.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Chestnut Street in reference to juvenile issues.

An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Green Street in reference to juvenile issues.

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

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Gillespie Police Report: March 3-9, 2024

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SUNDAY, MARCH 3, 2024

An officer was dispatched to the Benld Sports Center Complex in reference to criminal damage to property.

An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to fraud in the 600 block of Olive Street.

An officer was dispatched to the 1100 block of Second Street in reference to a noise complaint.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Chestnut Street in reference to a house check.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Broadway Street in reference to an animal complaint.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of North Hard Road in Benld in reference to dogs at large.

An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of West Henrietta Street in reference to a 911 open line. The officer checked the area and discovered it was a child playing with the phone.

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An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Ave and Main Street in Benld. Christy L. Williams, 39, of Bunker Hill was issued a citation for speeding.

An officer was dispatched to the 15000 block of Harmony Lane at Gillespie Lake in reference to a 911 call.

MONDAY, MARCH 4, 2024

An officer was dispatched to a business in the 100 block of Maple Street in reference to assistance with a suicidal subject.

An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of Broadway in reference to a domestic battery. Lee A. Pollard, 23, of Gillespie was arrested for domestic battery.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of East Burton Street in reference to harassment by electronic communication.

An officer spoke with a female in the 100 block of Cahokia Street in Benld in reference to a juvenile runaway.

An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of North 6th Street in Benld in reference to a civil issue and to recover property.

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An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to a well-being check.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Ave in reference to improper parking.

An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Gillespie Street in reference to an ordinance issue.

An officer was dispatched to Route 138 and Benld Cemetery in Benld in reference to a suspicious person.

TUESDAY, MARCH 5, 2024

An officer was dispatched to Broadway Street and Francis Street in reference to a traffic crash/hit-and-run.

An officer was out on Handy Street and Easton Street in reference to a motorist assist and property damage.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Park Street in Benld in reference to criminal trespass to property and harassment.

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An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of South 6th Street in Benld in reference to domestic trouble and juvenile issues.

An officer was dispatched to Staunton Road and Clark Street in reference to a hit-and-run.

An officer was dispatched to Gillespie Police Department to speak with a female in reference to harassment in the 200 block of South 2nd Street in Benld.

An officer was dispatched to the 800 block of Harding Ave in East Gillespie in reference to a noise complaint.

An officer was dispatched to a business in the 900 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to an animal complaint.

An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Abba Street in reference to a suspicious person.

An officer was dispatched to Route 4 and Dollar General in East Gillespie in reference to a suspicious person walking in the roadway.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Ave in reference to improper parking.

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An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of South Hard Road in Benld for unwanted solicitors.

An officer was out in the 600 block of Edwards Street in reference to unwanted solicitors.

An officer was dispatched to Easton Street and Handy Street in reference to a traffic crash.

An officer was dispatched to Central Ave and Route 4 in Benld in reference to reckless driving.

An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of North 5th Street in Benld in reference to juvenile issues.

An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Maple Street in Benld in reference to a civil standby.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6, 2024

An officer was dispatched to Gillespie High School in reference to a juvenile issue.

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An officer was dispatched to Henrietta Street and Green Street in reference to suspicious circumstances.

An officer was dispatched to Staunton Road and Route 4 in reference to an animal complaint.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Ave in reference to improper parking.

An officer initiated a traffic stop at Springfield Road and Illinois Ave in East Gillespie. Elizabeth A. Knight, 54, of Washington was issued a citation for speeding.

An officer was dispatched to the area of East Easton and South Second Street for smoke coming from under a bridge.

An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of Dorsey Road in Mt. Clare in reference to fraud.

An officer met with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to the return of found property.

An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to criminal damage to property.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Oak Street in reference to a 911 hang-up call.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Baker Street for a vehicle complaint. Tammy M. Dunn, 53, of Gillespie was issued a citation for illegal squealing/screeching of tires.

An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of Broadway Street in reference to a civil standby.

An officer was out at Park Street and Pine Street in Benld in reference to a trailer truck stuck under the train trestle. Chase E. Schultz, 21, of New Baden was issued a citation for disobeying a traffic device.

An officer was dispatched to Gillespie Police Department to speak with a female in reference to a suspicious person in the 200 block of Dorsey Street in Benld.

An officer was dispatched to a business in the 500 block of East Elm Street in reference to a 911 open line. Once an officer arrived on scene, they discovered it to be a misdial.

An officer was dispatched to a business in the 500 block of East Elm Street in reference to assistance in removing an intoxicated subject.

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An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Gillespie Street in reference to a well-being check.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Dorsey Road in Mt. Clare in reference to an intoxicated female.

FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2024

An officer was dispatched to Jersey Street and Spruce Street in reference to a traffic crash.

An officer was dispatched to Gillespie Police Department to speak with a female in reference to cyber-bullying.

An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of South 4th Street in Benld in reference to theft and aggravated assault.

An officer was dispatched to South 8th Street and Central Ave in Benld in reference to reckless driving.

An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to fraud.

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An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to a dog at large.

An officer spoke with a female at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue.

An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of West Baker in reference to a juvenile issue.

Tammy M. Dunn, 53, of Gillespie was issued a citation for illegal squealing/screeching of tires.

An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of North Lincoln in Eagarville in reference to a well-being check.

SATURDAY, MARCH 9, 2024

An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Henry Street in reference to a domestic dispute and child custody issue.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of West Henrietta Street in reference to a domestic dispute.

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Halli L. Thompson, 23, of Benld was arrested on a warrant out of Montgomery County for failure to appear while driving while their license was suspended.

An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Ave and Main Street in Benld.  Heaven L. Kopsie, 31, of Benld for operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of South 6th Street in reference to an accidental 911 misdial.

An officer spoke with a male at Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 200 block of South Macoupin Street.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Berry Street in reference to a suspicious vehicle.

An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to a suspicious vehicle.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of East Central Ave in Benld in reference to a suspicious vehicle.

An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of East Central Ave in Benld in reference to suspicious circumstances

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An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Charles Street in reference to a suspicious vehicle.

An officer was out at Oak Street and Macoupin Street in reference to juvenile issues.

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

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