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School Board defends policy on sports, reopening school

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Middle school baseball (archived photo)

Members of the Community Unit School District 7 Board of Education voted on Monday night to formally place the 2020-2021 district budget on file for public review but a major portion of the meeting was devoted to responding to parental concerns about opening the school year with a remote learning format and the suspension of sports programs in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

After meeting in person for the past two months, the board returned to conducting its meeting Monday night via the Zoom internet platform. More than 20 spectators accessed the meeting, three of whom addressed the board with concerns about remote learning protocols and/or the lack of sports programs.

Reading from a prepared statement, Jennifer Hailstone, parent of two local students, asked the board to appoint a task force comprised of administrators, teachers, parents and students to consider plans for returning to a classroom format or continuing remote learning. Additionally, she called for the district to reinstate those sports programs the Illinois High School Association and Illinois Elementary School Association have deemed reasonably safe for student participation.

Pointing out that one board member is employed by the Macoupin County Public Health Department and two members have family members employed by MCPHD, Hailstone alleged the board was unduly influenced by MCPHD in becoming the only school district in the county to chose remote learning exclusively over classroom learning for the 2020-21 school year opening.

“During these unprecedented times, I understand the superintendent and the board felt they made their decisions based on what they believed was safest for our students and staff. While I appreciate the concern, I feel some decisions were premature and left little to no room for parent choice,” Hailstone read from her statement.  “As I respect the work and dedication of the Macoupin County Public Health Department (MCPHD), I feel the overwhelming influence (board member and family members) makes it difficult for our school board to make unbiased decisions. Why is no other school in the county heeding their advice?”

Hailstone expressed special concern over the suspension of sports programs.

“In a time where underlining physical conditions are a contributing factor in the harmful effects of COVID-19, why are we limiting opportunities for exercise and sunshine that are safe according to the IDPH and the Governor’s Office?” she asked. “I feel that it is up to each individual to make an informed decision for his or her child. Sports are not mandatory. If a parent does not want his/her child to participate, they do not have to. The physical and mental benefits of playing sports attribute to academic success.”

Hailstone further alleged a “lack of transparency” on the part of the board regarding the decision to use remote learning and suspend extra-curricular activities. She said she and Kerri Kaylor, who also spoke Monday night, were unable to get firm answers from MCPHD, administrators or board members regarding how officials determine whether the infection rate within the district is improving or getting worse. Moreover, she said most board members and administrators would tell her when she asked about how the decisions were made was that the issues were “discussed.”

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In bulleted points, Hailstone alleged the decision to reopen school exclusively with remote learning was implemented without a board vote. She asked who devised the remotely learning plan and whether or not students and teachers were involved in those discussions. Further, she pointed out that in the last three days of July, both IHSA and IESA issued statements deeming some sports—such as golf, softball and cross-country—to be safe for student participation whether or not a school is exercising remote learning protocols.

“All I’m asking is that you give our parents and students the same choices as surrounding districts,” Hailstone said.

Board President Mark Hayes said the board concurred with the decision to open with remote learning which announced by Supt. Shane Owsley during a special meeting on July 20. Because the issue was not previously on the agenda, the board was precluded from voting that night but unanimously approved a resolution the following week giving the superintendent authority to implement protocols as necessary in response to the pandemic.

“I greatly appreciate your concerns,” Hayes said. “It wasn’t just Mr. Owsley’s decision; it was also the board and the faculty. Our board has decided to error on the side of caution. The plan is to be re-evaluated at the midterm.”

Joining Hailstone, Kerry Kaylor criticized the administration for being “unprepared” for the start of the school year. She said a number of families did not receive registration packets prior to the first day of school on Monday, Aug. 17, and were therefore uninformed about procedures for picking up computer devices, materials and assignments. She also criticized a lack of instruction during the first week of school. “I feel we are falling farther and farther behind,” she said.

Supt. Owsley said all packets were in the mail no later than last Monday, a full week before the start of school. He suggested some parents may not have received packets in a timely fashion because of issues with the Postal Service. Later in the meeting, High School Principal Jill Rosentreter said she is viewing the first week as a week for acclimating students and teachers to working under remote learning protocols. One of the concerns involves ensuring students are properly included in Microsoft Teams, which are the equivalent of a virtual classroom, and ensuring that all students have some opportunity for internet access.

“This first week is all about preparing our students to use their devices,” Rosentreter said. “We’re going slow and making sure all our students are set up properly in Microsoft Teams.”

Kaylor had pointed remarks for board member Jenni Alepra, whom she said failed to respond to an email she sent to board members seeking answers to her questions and concerns about the remote learning strategy. She said she reached out to Alepra, Don Dobrino and Becky Hatlee and received no response from any of the three. Dobrino was absent from Monday night’s meeting. Hatlee said she either missed the email or did not receive it and promised to check her inbox after the meeting.

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Alepra thanked Kaylor was participating in Monday night’s meeting but said she does not respond to board-related inquiries when she is not at a board meeting. “When I’m not at a board meeting, I’m not a board member,” Alepra said. “I have a full-time job and a household to run.” She added that is the policy she has practiced in 20 years of service on the board.

“How is the public supposed to address you then?” Kaylor asked.

“The chain of command is the teacher, the principal, the superintendent and then the board,” Alepra advised. “You’re in the right place to address the board. Our meetings are open to the public, so there are lots of opportunities to address the board.”

“I think that’s very poor on the part of an elected official,” Kaylor commented.

Kerry Frensko also addressed board regarding her concerns regarding a lack of instruction on Wednesdays. Owsley responded, saying Wednesdays have been set aside for cleaning and sanitation when students are allowed to return for classroom instruction. In the meantime, teachers will remain in contact with students and parents on Wednesdays to respond to inquiries. “That cleaning day is more related to the four-day schedule when we return,” he said.

Reading from a prepared statement, President Hayes responded to concerns about the sports program suspension as follows: “Members of the CUSD #7 Board of Education and the Administrative team have and always will look out for the safety of our students and staff. This has been our priority during the decision-making process and will continue to be. District leadership has determined that it is not safe enough for students to return to in-person instruction.  It has also been determined that if it is not safe enough for our students to return to the classrooms it is also not safe enough for them to return to the diamond, field, or course.  We fully understand the importance of extra-curricular activities to the educational process but also realize these are supplemental activities, not primary events.  We look forward to the day where all our students can return to their classrooms; furthermore, we also look forward to watching our Indians and Miners re-take the course, diamond, court, and field.  Unfortunately, now is not the time for either of these things to take place.  District Leadership will continue to monitor the COVID numbers in Macoupin County and will reassess the situation on a continuous basis.

Board members briefly heard from building administrators about the first day of school, which basically was devoted to distributing materials for remote learning and distributing computers to grades 4-12. It was also noted that Andrew Easton, a former student who now specializes in training teachers for remote learning, came to the district to offer a training session prior to the start of the school year.

“I’m proud of our school district and I’m proud of our community,” Hayes commented. “We’ve been through a lot together. I know we have not made everyone happy at times.” He said the board, administrators and faculty always seek to act in the best interest of students. He credited administrators, teachers and community members for rising to the challenge during the pandemic. “You are all amazing,” he said.

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In a somewhat related matter, the board approved on Owsley’s recommendation a technology policy regarding computer use by students. Owsely said the revised policy was needed because the district is moving toward becoming a “1:1 school district,” meaning the district will soon be able to provide computers and ensure internet access for all students.

PROPOSED BUDGET

Board members voted unanimously to place a draft budget for the 2020-21 fiscal year on file for public review for 30 days. Owsley said he would provide a detailed review of the budget when the board meets on Monday, Sept. 28, for its regular meeting. The board will conduct a public hearing on the budget on Sept. 28 before it is presented for final adoption by the board.

The proposed budget is available for public review at the district’s administrative office. Persons wishing to review the document will be required to wear a face-covering and practice social distancing while at the office.

This budget will be the first to be prepared under Owsley’s administration.

VOCATIONAL BUILDING EXPANSION

Without taking a formal vote, the board agreed to direct Grahm-Hyde Architects of Springfield to proceed with the base bid provided by Boeker Construction for replacing the roof and adding a 30-foot addition to the existing Vocational Education Building. Boeker proposed executing the project at a cost of $529,000—$450,000 of which will be underwritten with grant funds. An alternate bid to expand the building by 48 feet would have cost another $260,000.

“I think with the uncertainty we are facing in terms of funding,” Hayes commented, “we should stick with the base bid.” He noted the state has advised school districts to expect the same level of state funding as they were awarded last year.

E-LEARNING PROGRAM VERIFICATION

The board also authorized Owsley to apply for state verification for the district’s E-learning (remote learning) plans, which would allow the district to use E-learning days in lieu of emergency days such as “snow” days and other emergencies. Essentially, students would continue their education remotely on days when inclement weather or other emergencies force the school to cancel classroom attendance.

“We have the devices so it’s essentially what we are doing now,” Owsley said.

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The plan will require a local public hearing which will be set at a later date.

PERSONNEL

The board accepted the resignation of Nancy Konneker as a cafeteria worker and posted the position as vacant, and appointed Casey Edgerton as the high school yearbook sponsor.

The board deferred action on hiring a seventh-grade volleyball coach, a high school assistant volleyball coach and a high school assistant softball coach.

“We realize those positions will have to be filled at some point but with the pandemic, we are going to forego filling them at this time,” Hayes said.

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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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