Lake and McHenry County Scanner A driver was arrested after prosecutors say he led police on a brief high-speed chase before totaling a vehicle in a crash in Fox Lake and then fleeing on foot A Fox Lake police officer was on patrol around 11 p.m on April 16 approaching the intersection of Route 59 and Devlin Road according to Lake County Assistant State’s Attorney Emily Shanley-Roberts The officer saw a car go through the red light and the officer activated his emergency lights to conduct a traffic stop Shanley-Roberts said the officer reached speeds of 80 mph while pursuing the vehicle but the suspect vehicle continued to pull away driving far in excess of the 45 mph speed limit The officer eventually terminated the pursuit and followed the path of where he saw the vehicle fleeing He located the vehicle crashed in a residential neighborhood Shanley-Roberts said the vehicle was totaled and the officer found the driver’s license and other items belonging to Joshua A The car was less than half a mile from Polk’s home and officers went to the residence They made contact with Polk’s mother who said her son had just run inside screaming Officers located Polk and arrested him due to his multiple outstanding warrants from Cook County Polk told officers he was not in the car and that he was at a friend’s house He said someone else had his car and he caught a ride home Shanley-Roberts said Polk did not provide further details about where he had been or who gave him a ride He also had a white powdery substance in his right nostril Witnesses saw a subject running through yards wearing clothes that matched the description of Polk’s clothes The distance between the crash scene at Willow Road and Frontage Road and Polk’s home is less than half a mile Polk was charged with aggravated fleeing to elude aggravated fleeing causing property damage leaving the scene of a crash and driving while license revoked The Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office filed a petition to detain Polk pending trial but then withdrew the petition and sought for Polk’s release Lake County Assistant State’s Attorney Dino Katris said his office was not prepared to go forward with arguing for Polk’s detainment due to the circumstances in the case The charges against Polk are non-detainable under the Illinois SAFE-T Act but Katris said prosecutors had planned to argue the charges were detainable under a “catch-all” provision of the cashless bail law Lake County Judge Michael Nerheim told Polk he was “incredibly lucky” that prosecutors had withdrawn their petition to detain him The judge placed Polk on pre-trial services monitoring and a curfew Polk is scheduled to appear in court again on May 12 for a status of preliminary hearing No part of this website may be reproduced or stored in any form without written permission from Lake and McHenry County Scanner To keep you informed about the latest news across Lake and McHenry counties as it happens The widow of disgraced late Fox Lake police Lt Joe Gliniewicz will receive a roughly $1 million settlement resolving a long-running legal fight over survivor’s pension benefits The village of Fox Lake and the Fox Lake Police Pension Board jointly agreed to pay the settlement to Melodie Gliniewicz marking the final chapter in a protracted financial dispute Negotiations had been ongoing since spring of 2023 The village and police pension boards granted final approval of the agreement on Nov Fox Lake Mayor Donny Schmit signed the agreement on Nov according to a Thursday news release in response to Freedom of Information Act requests Schmit said Thursday the police pension board will pay much of the settlement amount and the village will contribute the remainder “This has been going on for quite a while,” Schmit said “It could have been a lot more money potentially It puts an end to this chapter in Fox Lake’s history After consulting with the attorneys it was in the best interest of the village to end the matter to avoid potential future costs.” the village and pension board eliminated the risk of an adverse ruling and reduced the cost of the survivor’s pension by potentially millions of dollars Joe Gliniewicz staged his own death on Sept to appear as if he'd been gunned down in the line of duty to head off revelations that he'd been stealing money from the police youth program A subsequent investigation determined he misused charitable funds from the Fox Lake Police Explorer Post 300's checking account from about 2009 to April 2015 He used the account’s funds for personal expenses including a trip to Hawaii that cost about $8,000 made out more than $1,000 in checks to his family members and paid for pornographic and adult dating websites Gliniewicz had the village pay a portion of his police department salary directly into the first Fox Lake Explorer post checking account He also worked out a deal under which the village deposited $32,000 from his retirement fund into the Explorer account as a loan that he would use and then pay back in $606.82 monthly installments Shortly after the village deposited the money Gliniewicz used the Explorer account to pay about $15,000 in student loan debt and began planning for the Hawaii trip according to financial documents reviewed by the Daily Herald at the time a Lake County judge sentenced Melodie Gliniewicz to 24 months of probation after she pleaded guilty to a felony charge of deceptive practices in connection with the financial misdeeds of her late husband “This has been a difficult chapter for our village,” Schmit said we can choose a path forward that brings closure and represents a prudent financial decision for the village and we are ready to focus on the continued growth and well-being of our community.” Please join Senator Wilcox as he hosts a mobile team from the Illinois Treasurer’s Office for an ICASH event that will be held at the Fox Lake District Library on Thursday Come see if you can claim part of over $5 billion that is being held in the Treasurer’s unclaimed property vault Copyright © 2021 Illinois Senate Republicans Springfield OfficeA-Section Stratton Building, Office KSpringfield, IL 62706P: (217)782-8000 District Office209 North Benton StreetWoodstock, IL 60098P: (815)455-6330 Melodie Gliniewicz speaks during a candlelight vigil for her husband on Sept Only later did it emerge that Joe Gliniewicz had taken his life but staged his death to appear he was shot by suspects he was chasing Fox Lake has approved a survivor’s pension settlement with Melodie Gliniewicz who infamously staged his suicide to look like a line-of-duty killing Fox Lake said it had a joint settlement agreement with the police pension board to resolve the survivor’s pension application that Melodie Gliniewicz filed “This has been a difficult chapter for our village,” Fox Lake Mayor Donny Schmit said in the release Negotiations over Melodie Gliniewicz’s request for a survivor’s pension began in spring 2023 and the agreement was approved by the pension board in November Schmit was authorized to sign the agreement on Fox Lake’s behalf Nov Although the agreement was signed in November the village announced the settlement in April the village and the pension board eliminated the risk of an adverse ruling the cost of attorneys fees and reduced the cost of the survivor’s pension by potentially millions of dollars,” according to the release Village officials said the settlement was about $1 million and that police pension board funds covered most of that Melodie Gliniewicz was charged in 2016 with crimes related to her husband’s financial mismanagement of the local youth police group She was accused of joining her husband in using the youth group’s funds for personal expenses – actions that apparently prompted him to stage his suicide to look like a line-of-duty death She pleaded guilty in Lake County court in 2022 to a single felony count of deceptive practices and was sentenced to probation Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network ExpandSean Stochl (Photo provided by Sean Stochl) Commercial and Residential Real-Estate - Self Employed Zoning Board Member, Appointment - Fox Lake votestochl.com Northern Illinois University MS - Kinesiology/Sport Management Blackburn College BA - k-12 Physical Education Volunteer with local teams, AFCA and NCSA affiliates for sports camps/instruction. Yes, my wife is Erin Stochl (local JHS Teacher and Girls Basketball coach) Senior housing also falls under the category of multifamily developments. This raises an important question: Are seniors choosing multifamily housing for convenience, financial reasons, downsizing purposes or this style is their only option? High-density residential developments should be strategically located in downtown districts with access to public transit and high walkability scores to maximize convenience and sustainability. I recognize the importance of ensuring that Fox Lake and the surrounding communities provide adequate housing options for individuals and families of all income levels. The McHenry County Board highlights the need for more workforce housing, Lake County more then likely aligns with this, which is essential for supporting local businesses, schools, and public services. If elected Mayor of Fox Lake, my role along with the elected Board, would include appointing a Village Administrator. One of the key responsibilities of the Village Administrator would be to oversee the selection of the Chief of Police, whether that means working with the current Chief or appointing a new one. 1. Expanding Housing Opportunities: My top priority is increasing housing options to accommodate families, retirees, and individuals who want to enjoy the unparalleled recreational resources Fox Lake has to offer. By working with responsible developers, improving zoning strategies, and utilizing available land efficiently, we can create diverse housing opportunities that cater to all stages of life while maintaining the village’s charm and character. 2. Revitalizing Downtown Development: Fox Lake’s downtown has immense potential for growth in business, dining, residential, and entertainment opportunities. Rather than consistently relying on outside consultants, we must take a proactive approach by reinvesting in our own community. Encouraging local entrepreneurship, improving infrastructure, and fostering public-private partnerships will help make downtown Fox Lake a vibrant destination that attracts both residents and visitors. Our approach to balancing economic development with environmental sustainability begins with proper zoning and planning. A well-structured development map provides investors, developers, and both internal and external stakeholders with the necessary framework to determine whether a town’s growth is sustainable and suitable. This “plug-and-play” development strategy is negatively impacting both environmental sustainability and economic growth. The tax base is not expanding as it should, and new developments are not being leveraged to their full potential. A more strategic use of BDD funds could have significantly increased the long-term economic productivity of Fox Lake while maintaining a balance between development and sustainability. Our public transportation system will continue to be assessed and improved. It is great that we currently provide a shuttle service for residents on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and we should explore opportunities to expand this service further. Additionally, Fox Lake is fortunate to have a Metra station, which is undergoing a complete rebuild, enhancing accessibility and commuter options. The Pace bus also serves Fox Lake, providing regular routes to the College of Lake County and other key destinations. Beyond public transit, infrastructure improvements must be a priority. Many of our roads need repairs, and as many residents are aware, the water service lines require replacement. While government programs may offer some financial relief or loan forgiveness, these solutions are not always guaranteed. To fund these critical improvements without placing an undue burden on taxpayers, Fox Lake must focus on strengthening its business and entertainment tax base. If we do not take proactive steps now, future generations will bear the financial burden of our inaction. Fox Lake’s elected officials should not serve in purely ceremonial roles but should remain actively engaged with our residents, local businesses, and surrounding communities. It is essential that we maintain a forward-thinking approach and a growth mindset when making decisions that impact economic development. We need leaders who not only care about Fox Lake but are truly invested in its success. Having “skin in the game” comes with challenges, but it also demonstrates a commitment to the community. Actions speak louder than words, and supporting local businesses requires more than just policy, it requires genuine involvement and advocacy. I have always embraced challenges and came forward when the pressure was on. As our town faces critical economic decisions, we need leaders who are ready to take action, make tough choices, and ensure Fox Lake remains open for businesses and families alike. Ensuring that Fox Lake becomes inclusive and welcoming community for all residents starts with open communication, fair representation, and proactive policy-making. As an elected official, the board at meetings will listen to our citizens and give them a response. I would prioritize transparency and engagement, making sure that all voices regardless of background, age or economic status are heard and considered in decision-making processes. One key approach is fostering a local government that actively seeks input from residents through community forums, surveys, and outreach efforts. Encouraging diverse representation on village boards and committees will also help ensure that policies reflect the needs of all members of our community. Additionally, Fox Lake must continue to support local businesses, recreational programs, and public services that accommodate and serve a wide range of residents, from young families to retirees. Investing in infrastructure, accessibility, and green spaces that allow everyone to participate fully in community life is essential. By creating an environment where every resident feels valued and included, we can strengthen Fox Lake’s sense of community and ensure a brighter future for all. Absolutely! I have publicly stated that I will be fully transparent and disclose everything I own in town. Transparency is essential to maintaining trust between government officials and the community. If an elected board member has a conflict of interest, they should fully disclose the nature of the conflict and provide details on how it may impact their decision-making. In such cases, they should abstain from voting or participating in any motions related to the issue to ensure fairness and integrity in the decision-making process. To enforce this, I would advocate for clear policies requiring public disclosure of potential conflicts of interest, along with accountability measures to ensure compliance. An ethical and transparent government is key to building and maintaining public trust in Fox Lake. The position requires dedicated hours in the Village Office, where I will be available to meet with residents. I will also ensure accessibility through email, scheduled meetings, and open communication channels. Additionally, I will remain actively involved in community events, committees, and after-hours engagements to stay connected with constituents and address their concerns directly. Police say a suspect is in custody after he reportedly attacked an elderly man who was discovered with serious injuries in a stairwell of an apartment building in Fox Lake The Fox Lake Police Department responded around 3:22 a.m on April 12 to the 300 block of Devlin Road for a report of a battery Rick Howell said officers arrived and found a victim at the bottom of a stairwell at the apartment building The 62-year-old Fox Lake man was suffering from extensive injuries The Fox Lake Fire Protection District was called and arrived at the scene to transport the victim to a nearby hospital for treatment Howell said detectives determined that the victim was attacked by Deeyavion M who resides in the 300 block of Devlin Road in Fox Lake following a verbal argument in a nearby apartment James and the victim were gathered with mutual friends at the apartment when the argument led to the physical attack Investigators located James at his residence on Tuesday and took him into custody The Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office reviewed the facts and circumstances of the case and approved charges of aggravated battery to a victim over 60 Howell said additional charges are possible as the case will be reviewed further James remains held at the Fox Lake Police Department and will be transported to First Appearance Court at the Lake County Courthouse in Waukegan on Wednesday morning Fox Lake Fire Protection District officials said a resident who requires use of a wheelchair suffered an injury to her foot escaping a late-night house fire Tuesday The woman was taken to a hospital for treatment shortly after firefighters and paramedics arrived around 11 p.m It took nearly 20 minutes to extinguish the fire inside the two-story single family home on the 0-100 block of Lawrence Avenue in Fox Lake The cause of the fire remains under investigation Fire officials believe it started in the living room Damage was estimated at about $50,000; the house was left uninhabitable Fox Lake (Photo provided by Fox Lake Police) FOX LAKE – A Fox Lake man is facing charges in connection with an attack on an elderly man April 12 Fox Lake police officers responded to the 300 block of Devlin Road for a report of a battery they found a 62-year-old Fox Lake man at the bottom of a stairwell with extensive injuries Fox Lake Fire District personnel took the man to a nearby hospital for treatment detectives determined that there had been an argument between the man and Deeyavion M James and the man were there with mutual friends when the argument turned physical James was arrested April 22 at his residence He has been charged with aggravated battery to a victim older than 60 Shaw Local News NetworkShaw Local News Network provides local news throughout northern Illinois The village has paid a $1 million settlement to the widow of former Fox Lake Police Lt both of which prosecutors say stole money from the explorer’s post before the officer staged his suicide as a murder and spurred a manhunt in 2015 The Village of Fox Lake Police Pension Board approved the settlement agreement during a special meeting in November The village board soon after authorized Fox Lake Mayor Donny Schmit to sign the agreement on behalf of the village The settlement involves two payments of $500,000 each to Melodie Gliniewicz to settle her survivor’s pension benefits claim following her husband’s death Village officials said the terms of the settlement allowed the village and the pension board to eliminate the risk of an adverse ruling the cost of attorney’s fees and reduced the cost of the survivor’s pension by “potentially millions of dollars.” we can choose a path forward that brings closure and represents a prudent financial decision for the Village and we are ready to focus on the continued growth and well-being of our community,” he said Lake and McHenry County Scanner learned of the quietly approved settlement agreement late last month and filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with the village on April 1 seeking the final approved settlement agreement The village waited five business days before issuing a response on Tuesday that it was extending the response deadline by another five business days The village claimed that producing the nine-page settlement agreement could not be completed in the required time without “unduly burdening or interfering with the operations of the Village.” the village released a public statement announcing the settlement and then 17 minutes later responded to Lake and McHenry County Scanner’s FOIA request by releasing the final settlement agreement including unlawful use of charitable funds and money laundering stole thousands of dollars from the Fox Lake Police Department’s Explorer Post for personal expenses from September 2009 through 2015 Joe Gliniewicz was found fatally shot in September 2015 after he staged his suicide Investigators said Joe Gliniewicz feared he was soon going to be caught for misusing the explorer post’s funds Gliniewicz has since pleaded guilty to one count of deceptive practice prosecutors dismissed all of her other charges “I didn’t know my husband was co-mingling his own money into the explorer account until he asked me to write a check back into the account And I never knew the full amount he was co-mingling until after his death,” she said during her sentencing hearing Lake County Assistant State’s Attorney Jeffrey Facklam said the couple treated the Fox Lake Police Explorer bank account as their own account Gliniewicz was sentenced to 24 months of probation and 150 hours of public service work participants in Sunday’s Fox Lake Polar Plunge for Special Olympics caught a break with the temperature hovering around 40 degrees But if their facial expressions were an indication any comfort they felt waiting in line was gone once they hit the chilly water About 150 participants took the plunge Sunday at Lakefront Park Region B director of Special Olympics Illinois the event was held in a 15,000-gallon Portatank provided by the Fox Lake Fire Department that was filled with water in the low 30-degree range Feldman said the ice was too think to use Nippersink Lake as planned ranging from a group who represented the entire “Toy Story” crew to one Special Olympics coach who dressed as “Saturday Night Live” motivational speaker Matt Foley keg and bottle — were among the first to take the leap but in a bad way,” Aaron Hexamer said of jumping into the frigid water of the tank It was the second year plunging for Hexamer who along with partners Rob Noon and Josh Grubbs hosted the awards ceremony at Black Lung up the street from the event The Fox Lake event is one of 23 plunges across the state this year Feldman said Special Olympics expects to raise about $2.5 million from the events “When you watch the competitions and see the athletes’ accomplishments it really does make this (polar plunge) worthwhile for people to suffer a little bit for that good cause,” Feldman said ExpandDonny Schmit (Photo provided by Donny Schmit ) donnyfirstthree.com 25+-year Fox Lake Volunteer Fire Department member Lakeland Cardinal Wrestling Club Coach (6 years) Lakeland Cardinal Football Club Coach (6 years) Lions Club instructor for blind bowling league and carnival volunteer Winner of Christi Fidelis award from Cardinal George as volunteer of the year Religious Education Advisory Board, (2 -4-year terms) Parish Festival volunteer and Chairman (23 years) Rosaries for the troops program (10 years) Donations (all work performed free of charge): Installed watermain piping at Village Hall Installed sprinkler system piping at Village Hall Set communication tower with crane at Police Department Installed irrigation piping at Police Department Set heating/air conditioner unit at Fire Department The housing market has changed. The younger generation prefers to rent rather than own when starting out. I support this type of development in areas where it is appropriate, has amenities and is geared to young professionals and those transitioning from college, technical schools and their parents homes. Fox Lake has more than enough affordable housing. Our need for housing is for the middle income residents. We are over 60% affordable housing according to the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning, so affordable housing is not a current need. Our police should follow the laws of our state. 1) Continued controlled development. We are updating our comprehensive plan, engaging in marketing, enhancing our parks and working with developers. 2) Repair our streets. Over the past several years, Fox Lake has repaired more streets than ever. Grand Avenue, Sayton Road, Holly Avenue, Nippersink Road, two frontage roads, Hickory Cove, Dunn’s Lake West Subdivision and many neighborhood streets have been repaired. Many of these projects were funded with grants and we will continue to seek grants. 3) Enhance our park programs to provide for an enjoyable family atmosphere. We have applied for several grants, have increased sponsorships and are seeking even funding opportunities. I am the Chairman of Stormwater Management of Lake County and know how important our environment is and how we as a village are reliant on our biggest asset, our lakes. We have invested nearly $60 million dollars in infrastructure and reinstated our local Pace bus service (which had been discontinued by the previous administration). We have capital improvement plans in place to continue to upgrade our infrastructure. We have designed incentive programs, a façade Improvement program, two business development districts and have created TIF districts all to promote new growth and sustain existing businesses. Keeping our community safe for families. We have a Police Department that engages in community outreach and education programs. We provide the most up to date training and equipment to allow our police to succeed at their jobs. Under my administration, in Administration, we have hired our first African-American, our first person of Indian heritage, I appointed our first Hispanic Village Clerk and we are an Equal Opportunity Employer. This is a must. If we are to earn the trust of our residents, we must be totally transparent. I attend virtually every event the Village has. I visit the senior complexes every two months. I visit our schools every time I am asked. My office is open to anyone. ExpandBernice Konwent (Photo provided by Bernice Konwent) Trustee of Fox Lake I have two children: Girl married no children; Boy married 3 children I support these as long as they are kept up. We have a lot of younger generation coming into McHenry County and this is probably all they can afford. I really think there is enough affordable housing at this time. I feel it is up to ICE to identify and depart. New marketing campaign to attract businesses, residents, and visitors to our village. Middle income housing for young professionals. With our Economic development team. We have a great one. We have a pace bus to help people that have no means of getting around. We should play an important role in supporting businesses and economic growth. Out top public safety concerns are speeders, and our law enforcement officers are handling that. By making sure as best as we can that residents are following city policies. By being active in the village to talk to the residents. Previous offices held: Previous zoning board member Is there a particular issue that motivates you what makes you the best candidate for the position I’m running for office because Fox Lake needs a fresh start Our community has tremendous untapped potential and I am driven to see Fox Lake thrive as the Heart of the Chain O' Lakes We are blessed with a beautiful lakefront park but creating and maintaining these spaces requires funding Our leaders must champion a long-term plan connecting all our parks The Mineola property holds tremendous potential and integrating it with Lakefront Park is essential Extending the park north then over Forest Avenue is a strategic move allowing for a Three Oaks type Development in Mineola Bay We must prioritize smart investments to grow sustainably Fox Lake offers over 7,000 acres of diverse zoning opportunities It’s time for a forward-thinking approach with smart zoning and planning What is the most serious issue your community will face in coming years and how should leaders respond to it The most serious issue we face in the coming years is the loss of residential Undeveloped land and stalled progress have left Fox Lake trailing behind neighboring communities Residents drive to other towns for entertainment and shopping taking their tax dollars with them This weakens our local economy and limits our ability to reinvest in our community Elected leaders must act with vision and urgency and develop a tourism plan that celebrates Fox Lake as the Heart of the Chain O’ Lakes Our lakefronts and open development spaces hold tremendous potential Bold growth minded leadership will unlock Fox Lake’s future How would you describe the state of your community's finances What should be the top priorities for spending during the next few years Are there areas of spending that need to be curtailed Fox Lake’s 2024 year-end audit revealed a half-million-dollar loss Fox Lake and its budgetary and borrowing % is very close to its limit village revenues will likely see a significant boost due to increased property taxes Fox Lake must focus on expanding its tax base to ensure long-term financial stability taxpayer dollars should be prioritized toward capital outlay for infrastructure and facilities while also focusing on improving our roads and enhancing walkability throughout the community more connected Fox Lake one that is built to thrive for generations to come What do you see as the most important infrastructure project you must address what project(s) can be put on the back burner The most important infrastructure project facing Fox Lake is the replacement of lead service water lines feeding residents’ homes We are currently moving into Phase 2 of this critical project with Trotter and Associates overseeing Phase 1’s progress My hope is that Trotter can again help Fox Lake secure IEPA Public Water Supply Loan Forgiveness to reduce the financial burden on residents as we advance through future phases Fox Lake can’t afford to put projects on the back burner Years of deferred maintenance on village-owned buildings and facilities have left many in disrepair some nearing the point of being unusable Ignoring these issues will only lead to greater costs down the road Our approach must balance progress with financial responsibility and loan forgiveness programs to ensure that critical water infrastructure and overdue building maintenance projects move forward without placing an unsustainable burden on taxpayers Describe your leadership style and explain how you think it will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions with your village board and fostering an environment where everyone feels heard and valued Open communication and transparency are key pillars of how I lead our mayor emails all the trustees with a specific question and asks them “do not reply all!” We will not be conducting business that way I approach challenges with an outside-the-box mindset always looking for creative and practical solutions Fox Lake can’t afford to operate under a “this is how we’ve always done it” mentality Fresh ideas and forward-thinking leadership will position our village for sustainable growth This approach will be effective with the village board and village administrator because I value teamwork and respect differing viewpoints while keeping our shared goal in focus: improving Fox Lake for residents and businesses alike I believe we can break through stagnation and create the thriving community Fox Lake deserves What’s one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet Fox Lake has a great track record of bringing out large crowds for events like concerts what we're missing is a true “Day-out or Night-out” experience closed down from the train tracks all the way to the lakefront park transforming into a weekend celebration with themed block parties all while allowing people to flow freely between the lakefront and the business district and this could be the perfect way to reimagine our community’s atmosphere ExpandDavid Gauger (LINDSEY_WEBSTER PHOTOGRAPHY) Village of Fox Lake Trustee donnyfirstthree.com AA and AAs from College of DuPage, attended Roosevelt University, Continuing ED credits from Culinary Institute of America. Volunteer work for annual events for the past twenty+ years. Mayors Fish Fry, Field of Dreams/ Grant Township fish fry, Lions Club Easter Pancake Breakfast. Donated numerous “Dinner by David” silent auction gifts to Chamber of Commerce Golf Outings and Venetian Night fundraisers. Proud volunteer for “Fox Lake Cares”, a private organization that provided Thanksgiving meals to Fox Lake residents in need. Many years “Fox Lake in Bloom” bi-annual roadside clean up. Happily married to Kate Gauger. Proud stepdad of two adult children and papa to three grandchildren. Fox Lake only has a small portion of the town in McHenry County. Multi-family rental units are an important part of the mix of housing stock. Yes, illegal criminals should be deported. Fox Lake needs to continue infrastructure improvements as well as the Lakefront Park additions. Yes, I do support public officials having to disclose potential conflicts of interest. I live in and am a small business owner in town. SALT LAKE CITY — The Salt Lake City Fire Department is battling a 3-alarm fire at the old Golden Dragon restaurant near 1500 South Main Street early Tuesday with the first flames being seen just after 7:15 a.m The building now houses the La Rana Mexican Snack Factory according to the Ballpark Community Council which gives us about 14 heavy apparatus on scene," said Capt "We have approximately 60 Firefighter personnel here fighting this fire right now we also have assistance from our police department.” they immediately called for a second alarm to be pulled firefighters were forced to back off and take a defensive posture against the flames at which point the blaze grew to a three-alarm fire Drone video shows size of fire at old restaurant site: "[Firefighters] went offensive and conducted a fire attack in the interior of the building where they encountered heavy flames and smoke in the back of the building where they also had some flashover in the back they had to pull out of the building so that they could protect themselves and we transitioned to a defensive fire since then," said Hancuff Video below shows the size of the fire when crews arrived on scene (Austin Begay): Some of the fire personnel on the scene were there to keep the flames from spreading to nearby buildings All of the factory employees were able to get out of the structure without injury A local coffee shop owner nearby was concerned as soon as she saw the smoke I just saw that there was like so much smoke all around and again in the direction of my business so I came in our street was closed,” said Veronica Bojorquez Bojorquez now worries about the business owners so it was a little scary and knowing the business and it’s just so sad so sad that they’re a small Hispanic business and now they’ve lost everything,” she said Investigators are still attempting to learn how the fire started Stay with fox13now.com and FOX 13 News for more on this breaking news story 2025Fox Lake has settled a case with Melodie Gliniewicz the widow of disgraced police Lieutenant Joe Gliniewicz who was seeking survivor's benefits.FOX LAKE (WLS) -- The widow of disgraced Fox Lake Police Lieutenant Joe Gliniewicz has now settled a case over his benefits The former lieutenant died by suicide in 2015 but investigators said he tried to make it look like a homicide to cover up his crimes Gliniewicz and his wife were accused of stealing thousands of dollars from the Fox Lake Explorers program Melodie Gliniewicz pleaded guilty to her role READ MORE | Widow of disgraced Fox Lake police lieutenant gets 24 months probation in embezzlement case If you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental health crisis call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 A pair of siblings are in custody on murder charges stemming from the deadly 2023 shooting of a 17-year-old boy in Round Lake each face charges of first-degree murder and armed robbery in the death of Chad Greenenwald the younger Gibert is being charged as an adult while sitting in a parked vehicle outside a gas station in Round Lake Beach He was taken to a nearby hospital and later died of a gunshot wound to the chest Investigators later determined Greenenwald was a passenger in the vehicle with two others when he was shot near Midland and Sycamore drives in Round Lake Police said Wednesday the shooting occurred during a fight involving multiple people who had walked up to the vehicle The charges follow an investigation by Round Lake detectives with assistance from the Lake County state’s attorney’s office and the Skokie and Round Lake Park police departments Numerous interviews and forensic evidence led police to the Giberts as suspects Round Lake detectives and members of the FBI’s Violent Crime/Fugitive Task Force arrested the pair Wednesday on the 800 block of Richard Brown Boulevard in Volo They remain in custody while awaiting a first appearance in Lake County court A 39-year-old man free from jail despite getting into a fight with police and jumping out of a moving car has been ordered detained until trial for selling fentanyl and cocaine to undercover police officers over nearly two years was ordered detained by Lake County Circuit Court Judge Michael Nerheim for selling drugs to undercover Lake County Metropolitan Enforcement Group police officers between November 2023 and March 2025 The drug buys came while Jefferson was out of jail after a high-speed chase in North Chicago where he allegedly almost ran over an officer’s foot and jumped out of the moving vehicle he was driving following a traffic stop and high-speed chase through North Chicago prosecutors said during Jefferson’s detention hearing held March 17 Jefferson was accused of staring at a North Chicago police officer as he left a restaurant at 1 a.m The officer followed Jefferson in his marked squad and noticed Jefferson commit a traffic violation Nerheim said in court Jefferson “was laughing” at the officer before taking off and starting a high-speed chase Jefferson is alleged to have nearly run over the officer’s foot with the vehicle when he drove away from the scene The chase reached speeds as high as 75 miles per hour or greater in a 35 miles per hour zone Jefferson opened his car door and rolled out of the vehicle he was driving The move resulted in the car running into a utility pole and stopping Jefferson tried to run from police and had to be subdued Police recovered a bag that contained 93 grams of cocaine powder Court records show Jefferson was charged with a Class X felony charge of manufacturing or delivery of cocaine a Class 1 felony count of possession of cocaine and Class 4 felony counts for aggravated fleeing and eluding police and aggravated assault to a peace officer prosecutors filed the necessary paperwork to detain Jefferson until trial before the case could be called in detention court Jefferson complained of having chest pains and was sent to the hospital Jefferson remained in the hospital through several additional court dates the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office withdrew the petition to detain Jefferson pending trial “I don’t have evidence the defendant was faking the issue with the heart condition but what I do know is that once the motion to detain was withdrawn the defendant left the hospital and proceeded to conduct a drug transaction with an undercover officer,” Nerheim said in court Nerheim said in court an undercover officer from the Metropolitan Enforcement Group purchased cocaine and fentanyl from Jefferson on five occasions between November 2023 and March 13 The March 13 purchase resulted in Jefferson being arrested again Prosecutors said Jefferson sold 2 ounces of cocaine to the undercover officer near Belvidere Road in Grayslake In previous undercover buys spanning back to November 2023 Jefferson sold fentanyl and cocaine to undercover officers Jefferson was charged with three Class X charges of manufacturing and delivery of cocaine two Class 1 felony counts of manufacturing and delivery of fentanyl three Class 1 felony counts of possession of cocaine and two Class four felony counts of possession Nerheim ordered Jefferson detained until trial due his to being a “real and present danger” to the health and welfare of the people of Lake County Jefferson is due back in court on April 11 Authorities say a person was found dead inside a car that became engulfed in flames and led to the fire spreading to a house in Fox Lake Tuesday afternoon The Fox Lake Fire Protection District and Fox Lake Police Department responded around 1:56 p.m Tuesday to the 0-100 block of Scenic Lane for a report of a structure fire Fox Lake Fire Protection District Battalion Chief Tom Preidis said crews arrived to find a car parked outside the residence on fire in the driveway Flames were coming from the car and from the house after the fire spread to the two-story home at the attached garage Approximately six nearby fire departments were called to assist and to cover Fox Lake fire stations Fox Lake Fire Chief Ed Lescher said multiple hose lines were deployed to extinguish the fire which had spread from the garage area to the second story Firefighters extinguished the fire in under an hour Crews found a victim deceased inside the car A neighbor was believed to have reported the fire No residents were in the home at the time and firefighters conducted a search of the residence to verify The car was completely destroyed and the house McHenry and Spring Grove fire departments assisted at the scene or covered Fox Lake fire stations The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal Lake County Coroner’s Office and investigators from numerous fire departments were called to the scene Preidis said the incident remains under investigation and deferred further details to the Fox Lake Police Department The coroner’s office said an autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday and a positive identification on the body has not been made Dave Vinz is dressed for the day as he walks through downtown Fox Lake for last year's St the streets are lined with Dodge County residents who come to Fox Lake for the tradition that started 52 years ago The parade began in 1973 with a conversation at Casey’s Tavern and has been a popular event ever since “This is a time-honored tradition here in Fox Lake,” organizer Marcy Benz said “I can’t think of a better way to bring on spring.” Many of the bars will be opening about 9 a.m. The parade lineup is at noon at SAGES School on Depot Street The best approach would be to take Spring Street and go east along Cordelia Street then north on Depot Street “We are hoping for a record number of floats but many just show up and register on site,” Benz said “I’m not sure exactly how many will be coming but there is a $10 fee for floats that will be judged Those entering to be judged must register at the house on the corner of Depot and Green streets “There is still time to get a float together or just join us to ride but the city is expecting a great turnout this year “It’s looking like the weather might be a little nicer than the last couple of years We might actually have a little sunshine,” Benz said We know all about Wisconsin’s springtime.” There will be music by the band Benign Addiction directly after the parade The band will play at the corner of College Avenue and State Street the band will play inside the American Legion “Don’t forget to search around town,” Benz said “We will be hiding six leprechaun statues throughout the downtown area take it to Snappers (Sports Bar) and claim your prize.” Follow Terri Pederson on Twitter @tlp53916 or call 920-356-6760 Email notifications are only sent once a day Audrey Backeberg currently lives out of state and her disappearance was her choice and not the result of foul play Area goalkeepers stifled their opponents during the past week of high school girls soccer action Vote for your favorite athlete to be crowned… "The lives Kami touched is truly amazing," Paul Hansen wrote in a Facebook post "The stories being posted and well wishes really means a lot … was charged after a nearly two-year investigation Program record-breaking performances lead the way this week Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device Account processing issue - the email address may already exist Invalid password or account does not exist Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account The coroner has released the identity of a body that was found inside a car that caught on fire and spread to a house Crews found a person deceased inside the car Lake County Coroner Jennifer Banek identified the victim on Thursday as Walter Drogos The coroner’s office was initially not able to positively identify the body but has since identified it as Drogos and notified his family An autopsy performed Wednesday showed Drogos suffered severe burns but final determinations on his cause and manner of death are pending toxicology studies Rick Howell said officers learned the residence was a summer home and vacant at the time of the fire Drogos’ body was found in the driver’s seat of the vehicle Howell also said the vehicle was backed into the driveway and onto the front entryway stairs where it caught fire A preliminary examination of Drogos showed no outward signs of trauma apart from the burn injuries The incident remains under investigation by the Fox Lake Police Department Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal and area fire investigators Cane Hill have announced their "A Piece of Me I Never Let You Find" headlining tour in support of their new album The tour kicks off February 14th in New Orleans and wraps up March 16th in Houston Find Cane Hill Tickets Here LA @ Parish at House of Blues02/15 Pensacola GA @ Masquerade (Purgatory)02/18 Greenville PA @ Lovedraft's Brewing Co.02/22 Brooklyn TX @ Vibes Underground03/14 Corpus Christi Colorado nu-metal band Fox Lake have released a brand new single titled "Cold Hard Truth," along with an accompanying Austin Voldseth-directed  music video.  The 'Cold Hard Truth' is a blend of some our favorite elements from nu-metal We wanted the whole song to feel like the moment your luck runs out It's just as heavy as it is groovy and the lyrics cut like a knife Police have arrested a Volo man after they say they discovered him in possession of videos and images of child sexual abuse material in Fox Lake. The Fox Lake Police Department responded around 3:30 p.m. Saturday to a call of a person who had child pornography on his cell phone. Officers made contact with the alleged offender, identified as Paul Rosenquist, 48, of Volo, according to Fox Lake Police Department Sgt. Rick Howell. Investigating officers interviewed Rosenquist and confirmed his cell phone contained images and videos of child pornography, Howell said. A residence was searched and Rosenquist’s cellular phone was seized along with additional electronic devices. Howell said Rosenquist was arrested for possession of child pornography. The Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office approved two counts of possession of child pornography depicting a child under 13, a Class 2 felony. Rosenquist was transported to First Appearance Court on Monday afternoon at the Lake County Courthouse. The Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office filed a petition to detain him pending trial. Rosenquist is being held in the Lake County Jail until a detention hearing is held. Howell said the investigation is ongoing and Rosenquist’s cell phone and other electronic devices are being forensically analyzed by the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Cyber Division. “[…] it is believed it will contain more depictions of child pornography,” Howell said, adding that additional charges are expected upon the completion of the investigation. No part of this website may be reproduced or stored in any form without written permission from Lake and McHenry County Scanner. To keep you informed about the latest news across Lake and McHenry counties as it happens. “I don’t have a commercial break and 40 carpenters waiting in the wings” while he and his partner, Tara Farnsworth, undo the projects done by landlords or misguided residents — projects that may have been inspired by the TV network’s home-flipping shows, he said. Albrecht and Farnsworth, of Antioch, are house flippers, too, franchisees with HomeVestors of America. The company may best be known for its “We Buy Ugly Houses” signs and mailers. As franchisees, the pair have access to short-term loans and building supply discounts while they prepare a house for resale, Albrecht said. The company also recognizes franchisees’ hard work. One of Albrecht and Farnsworth‘s most recent home flips — a circa 1923 Fox Lake house — has won the title of “The Ugliest House of the Year” for 2024. Instead of a cash prize going to Albrecht and Farnsworth for the win, Habitat for Humanity Lake County will receive a $20,000 grant from HomeVestors, according to a company news release. Albrecht has been a home remodeling contractor for 25 years, and Farnsworth has a background in marketing. Former high school sweethearts, the couple reconnected via Facebook and are now engaged. They’ve also flipped 12 houses with HomeVestors since 2022, and recently bought their 13th home — an 1892 house in McHenry — Albrecht said. Some people are turned off by the company’s “We Buy Ugly Houses” branding, Albrecht said. “It is a play on words. Your house does not have to be ugly” for the company to buy it, he said. But what might be ugly are the circumstances: the death of the owner, tax problems or mortgage problems. “A lot of times, the owners don’t feel they can list it and they don’t want people to walk through their home” to see its issues, like duct tape in the shower or a worn spot on the kitchen floor, Albrecht said. He has seen homes in way worse condition than sellers imagine theirs to be. The Fox Lake home was the first the two bought from a multiple listing service, rather than through homeowners calling after seeing their signs or direct mailings. It had been listed for about 500 days. For many years, the property was a two-unit rental. “There was no separation of the units — they shared a kitchen,” Albrecht said. In the back half the house, residents had to walk through one bedroom to get to the next one. As it sat empty, the lot became overgrown, the roof and windows were leaking and gas and electricity had been turned off. The home’s pipes had not been drained before the power was turned off and pipes burst while the house sat empty. “We removed all of the plumbing from the water meter back,” and replaced all of the electric during the flipping process, Albrecht said. There is new flooring throughout. The house had many additions over the years, and every time another addition was put on the original house, it got another layer of siding, too. “There were five layers of siding. Now there are six,” Albrecht said, because taking off some of the old siding was too problematic. Once the house on Lippincott Road was back on the market, the new buyers closed within a month. “It’s deeply satisfying to turn the worst house on the block into the best,” Albrecht said. Fox Lake police are investigating the death of a man found inside a burning SUV that damaged a home Tuesday afternoon. Police called to Scenic Lane and Scenic Drive near Pistakee Lake about 2 p.m. found a 2000 Dodge Durango engulfed in flames, with fire spreading to a vacant summer home, authorities said. The body of an unidentified man, the sole vehicle occupant, was found in the driver’s seat of the Durango after the fire was extinguished, according to police. Police said the vehicle backed into the driveway, onto the front entry stairs and caught fire, which spread to the front of the home and caused significant damage. An initial exam of the man showed no outward signs of trauma except for fire-related injuries, police said. Fox Lake police, the Lake County Coroner's Office, state fire marshal and others are investigating. ExpandFox Lake was selected to receive a $600,000 Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant from the State of Illinois to be used at Lakefront Park. (Rendering provided by the Village of Fox Lake) FOX LAKE – Fox Lake announced it was selected to receive a $600,000 Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development grant from the state. The funding will support the village’s effort to continue to develop Lakefront Park with an ADA-compliant pier and boardwalk, according to a news release. Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources awarded a total of $55.2 million to 100 communities for local park development projects as part of the latest round of OSLAD grants. “Since I became governor it’s been my mission to build stronger, healthier communities across Illinois,” Pritzker said in the news release. “Through the OSLAD program, we’re bringing that vision to life by awarding over $55.2 million to local park projects, expanding green spaces and creating new recreational opportunities for all.” Established by the Illinois General Assembly in 1986, OSLAD is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that helps communities fund land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects. It’s become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. Since its establishment, OSLAD has awarded $640 million for park projects throughout Illinois including the $600,000 state grant for local park development. “This grant is a game-changer for us,” Fox Lake Mayor Donny Schmit said in the release. “It allows us to enhance the park and provide greater accessibility to families and community members who will benefit from water-based recreation and various special events and program offerings. We are incredibly grateful for the support and encouragement from Illinois state Rep. Tom Weber and every member of our community who made this possible.” The project is proposed to transform the village into a sought-after tourist destination within the Chain O’ Lakes region, boosting visits to the park and local businesses because of its close proximity to the village’s downtown business district. Additionally, it is conveniently located within walking distance of the village’s Metra train station. The estimated target date for completion is spring 2026. have unveiled a music video for their new single Speaking of what they set out to do with this track “The ‘Cold Hard Truth‘ is a blend of some our favorite elements from nu-metal It’s just as heavy as it is groovy and the lyrics cut like a knife.” A music video for the song was shot with director Austin Voldseth and is now available for viewing "These bands are way too popular to be in arrears." "Guess you'll have to go Steal This Album if you want to hear it now.." No one was injured but a home was deemed uninhabitable during a fire in Fox Lake late Tuesday night Firefighters were called to the 0 to 100 block of Lawrence Avenue in Fox Lake for a report of smoke showing from a single-family residence said Fox Lake Fire Protection District Chief Ed Lescher the homeowner was outside of the home and some light smoke was showing from around the door Fire crews entered through the front door and immediately saw flames in the living room Firefighters were able to douse the flames and deem the fire under control within 10 minutes Lescher said no injuries were reported by the homeowner or firefighters involved in the blaze Firefighters remained on the scene for an additional hour searching for hot spots and investigating the cause of the fire Firefighters cleared the scene at about 12:30 a.m The home was deemed uninhabitable due to the fire damage in the living room and the heavy smoke damage throughout the home The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Fox Lake Fire Department Lescher said the Fox Lake Fire Protection District was assisted by firefighters and equipment from Lake Villa FOX LAKE -- The man whose body was found after a car fire in Fox Lake has been identified the Fox Lake Fire Protection District and Fox Lake Police Department responded to the 0-100 block of Scenic Lane for a report of a structure fire Officers arrived and found a vehicle on fire in the driveway the body of a man was found inside the vehicle It was determined that the house was a summer home and vacant at the time of the fire Preliminary investigation indicates that the vehicle backed into the driveway and onto the front entryway stairs The Lake County Coroner’s Office was notified and responded to the scene The man has been identified as 76-year-old Walter Drogos of Fox Lake an autopsy was conducted at the Lake County Coroner’s Office autopsy results are pending toxicology studies the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal Home » Home » Brevard County Parks and Recreation Highlights Fox Lake Park in Titusville By Space Coast Daily  //  January 12 FLORIDA — Brevard County Parks and Recreation is highlighting not one but two incredible destinations: Fox Lake Park and Fox Lake Sanctuary in Titusville Brevard County Parks and Recreation is excited to announce the January #ParkOfTheMonth Fox Lake Park is a 31.57-acre regional gem As you drive along the paved road that winds through the park you’ll be surrounded by stunning native flora It’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in Florida’s natural beauty The park offers a range of activities to suit outdoor enthusiasts Fishing and Boating: With a boat ramp providing access to South Lake from Fox Lake the park is a popular destination for anglers and boaters Explore the serene waters or try your hand at fishing for local species Canoeing and Kayaking: The park’s proximity to numerous canals makes it ideal for paddlers seeking to navigate its tranquil waterways Fox Lake Sanctuary: Adjacent to the park is the Fox Lake Sanctuary managed by the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands (EEL) Program This sanctuary is easily accessible through Fox Lake Park making it a convenient addition to your visit It offers opportunities to explore Florida’s unique ecosystems and encounter local wildlife in their natural habitat Fox Lake Park and Sanctuary are perfect for a day of exploration Whether you’re enjoying a picnic under the shade of native trees For more information about Fox Lake Park, including amenities, events, and updates, visit the website. Click Here to Sign Up for Text Alerts (Photo Provided by McHenry County Sheriff's Office) A Crystal Lake man awaiting sentencing in a federal Ponzi scheme and accused of stealing from a McHenry County veterans group has been allowed some contact with members of that group while he works at a Fox Lake bar Alan J. Hanke, 60, pleaded guilty in New York federal court to a multimillion-dollar Ponzi scheme. He also has been charged in McHenry County with theft of $10,000 to $100,000, a Class 2 felony, as well as use of credit or debit card with intent to defraud, according to the indictment in the McHenry County court. The criminal complaint alleges that between January 2023 and March 2024 Hanke made “cash withdrawals and purchases totaling over $10,000″ and used the card for “numerous unauthorized cash withdrawals and purchases at various restaurants and retail establishments/online websites” in excess of $150 in a six-month period In court last week, a judge granted part of a motion from Hanke’s attorney to modify conditions of Hanke’s pretrial release. When released from the county jail on Sept he was ordered not to approach or communicate in any way with members of the American Legion or Sons of the American Legion American Legion members often frequent Dinghy’s Bar and Restaurant “Some of the members presently attend trying to communicate with Alan,” according to the motion Hanke’s stepson recently died and he has “family members who are still active members of the American Legion There will be services held for his stepson’s passing involving members of the American Legion,” according to the motion Hanke “feared the current condition of no contact with American Legion members is too restrictive and will prohibit him from contacting family members attending funeral services for his stepson and performing successfully at his job,” according to the motion Judge Mark Gerhardt modified Hanke’s pretrial release conditions Thursday allowing him to have “contact with members of the American Legion solely for the purposes of his employment at Dinghy’s Bar and Restaurant however [Hanke] shall not discuss this case and its facts and circumstances with any members of the American Legion.” Gerhardt did not rule on conditions regarding the funeral service As part of his pretrial release in the McHenry County case, Hanke is allowed to travel to New York for court appearances for his federal case and to Walworth, Wisconsin, for “medical treatment for his condition,” which was not specified in documents. He was ordered not to hold any office with any nonprofit organization, according to the order signed by Judge Carl Metz. Utah — A person of interest has been identified and taken into custody in connection with a homicide in South Salt Lake Saturday night Police were looking for 21-year-old Salman Ahmed on Sunday and announced within a few hours that he had been found Officers were called to the area of 2500 South 400 East around 11:45 p.m The 18-year-old male victim was taken to the hospital The victim's name is not yet being released According to court documents obtained by FOX 13 News Salman was driving a vehicle in the area with 3 females and 1 male passenger Detectives say a verbal argument led to Salman exiting the vehicle and punching two of the women in the face He then allegedly retrieved a gun from the front of the vehicle and threatened to shoot one of the female passengers Police say the male passenger then tried to intervene before a physical fight began Ahmed closed the doors of the vehicle and drove away Ahmed was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail Ahmed was charged in connection with a deadly shooting outside a convenience store in Millcreek He pleaded guilty to lesser charges of discharging and possession of a firearm for which he served about a year and eight months in jail before being released on probation We had worked out a disposition based on some evidence issues between the two shooting parties There was a question based on their expert and ours regarding who shot first and who was defending themselves,” Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill said in response to FOX 13's inquiry about the 2022 case “There was some history between the two groups We agreed to a disposition with a guilty plea that if he violated the law then we could come back to conviction and sentencing.” 2025 at 4:27 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Negotiations surrounding the joint settlement agreement began in spring 2023 along with the village attorney and Fox Lake Police Pensions Board which will resolve a long-standing financial and legal battle with the village of Fox Lake The village of Fox Lake agreed to a joint settlement agreement with the Fox Lake Pension Board to resolve the pending survivor's pension application filed by Gliniewicz, according to a news release from the village of Fox Lake. According to media reports, the settlement was roughly $1 million. Negotiations surrounding the joint settlement agreement began in spring 2023 the pension board granted final approval over the agreement Village officials said that under the terms of the settlement "the village and the pension board eliminated the risk of an adverse ruling and reduced the cost of the survivor’s pension by potentially millions of dollars." “This has been a difficult chapter for our village,” said Mayor Donny Schmit Joe Gliniewicz died of self-inflicted gunshot wounds in 2015 after staging the scene to look like he was gunned down in the line of duty. His death kicked off a manhunt for the three fictional suspects, and he was at first hailed as a hero — but soon, as the truth emerged, he was dubbed a thief who stole from the Fox Lake Police Explorer program for years The stolen money was used to help pay for his mortgage officials said after his death was ruled a suicide After his death, Melodie Gliniewicz was also charged with embezzling from the explorers program, receiving probation after pleading guilty to deceptive practices and allowed the chance to have the felony wiped from her record through the Second Chance program Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts. A Fox Lake woman authorities said led Lake County sheriff’s deputies on a chase reaching speeds of more than 100 mph was apprehended Monday night with an assist from a police dog a deputy located a stolen Dodge Charger in the area of Washington Street and Route 21 in Gurnee that has fled from law enforcement numerous times in recent days according to Lake County sheriff’s Deputy Chief Chris Covelli The deputy followed the Charger until help could respond to the area and the vehicle continued on several roads heading west Deputies tried a traffic stop near Rollins Road and Drury Lane in an unincorporated area near Grayslake but the driver fled on Rollins Road at a speed reaching more than 100 miles per hour turned the headlights off and drove onto Hook Drive into a residential neighborhood The pursuit was discontinued but deputies found the vehicle abandoned on the 1900 block of Hardwood Path Police dog Odin and his handler were called to assist and tracked the abandoned Dodge through several wooded backyards She was found hiding between two bushes and taken into custody without issue Krause was charged with possession of a stolen motor vehicle a class 2 felony; aggravated fleeing to elude police aggravated speeding of driving 104 miles per hour in a 45-mph zone Idleburg said the continued goal is to have a canine team on duty at all times “Their daily impact is astounding — finding missing endangered individuals and catching fleeing felons,” he said He also lauded the telecommunicators who kept countywide law enforcement informed and deputies who tracked down the stolen vehicle “This was all around great police work,” he said Fox Lake police are investigating the death of a man found inside a burning SUV that damaged a home Tuesday afternoon to Scenic Lane and Scenic Drive near Pistakee Lake found a 2000 Dodge Durango fully engulfed in flames with fire spreading to a summer home that was vacant at the time was found in the driver’s seat of the Durango after the fire was extinguished Authorities said the vehicle backed into the driveway onto the front entry steps and caught fire which spread to the front of the home and caused significant damage An initial exam of the man showed no outward signs of trauma except for fire-related injuries Fox Lake police, the Lake County Coroner’s Office, the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal and other agencies are investigating. https://www.dailyherald.com/20250129/news/man-found-dead-after-vehicle-caught-fire-and-damaged-a-home-in-fox-lake/ Previous offices held: Current Fox Lake village president; former planning commissioner and trustee Being mayor isn’t just about holding office — it’s another way to give back to the community Serving Fox Lake has always been my priority • 25-plus years with the Fox Lake Volunteer Fire Department • Regular visits to our senior complexes and hosting an annual lasagna dinner since 2009 • Recipient of Christi Fidelis award from Cardinal George as volunteer of the year • Coached youth wrestling and football for 6 years each sprinkler systems and 911 center equipment — at no cost to the village of Fox Lake you have seen me volunteering at virtually every village My goals are to continue revitalizing our downtown attract new development and support existing businesses We will continue to provide incentives through our business development districts landscaping and a water feature in our downtown to creating a generational family venue at our lakefront to improving roads and infrastructure I have a proven track record of delivering results for our community supporting our existing businesses and attracting new development we can provide more services to our residents without increases in taxes and fees Our finances have continued to improve under my administration Sales tax revenue and the net worth of the village have both increased over 35% since I took office We are conservative when it comes to spending our taxpayer’s money we choose a conservative plan when it comes to going into debt the village’s aggregated general obligation indebtedness cannot exceed 8.625% of the value of taxable property within the village The total debt applicable to this limit was $12,205,009 which is well below the $33,128,913 set by law (using the 2023 taxable equalized assessed value of $384,103,344) Top priorities for spending are development of our downtown and vacant parcels we can only spend the funds we have on capital projects so we cannot repair as many streets as we would like to Repairing our 50-plus miles of streets has been and always will be our biggest infrastructure challenge We have received several grants to repair the many streets that we have repaired the past several years We will continue to explore every option to fund our street repair We recently received a grant from the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning to do a street assessment We have also developed a Capital Improvement Program to meet the needs of our residents Transparent and open are the two words that describe my leadership style Every person at the village hall has full access to my calendar and are instructed to schedule a meeting with anyone who wants to meet with me I attend virtually every village event and interact with our residents I also visit our four senior complexes every two months and host the scout groups several times a year We are marketing our community through the “This is the Life Fox Lake” program and are already seeing benefits We have a lot to offer and marketing our community is going to be a priority for attracting new development and filling empty businesses An 18-year-old Indian Creek man was identified as the motorcyclist who died in a two-vehicle crash Sunday night near Fox Lake and Spring Grove Alexander Russell died from his injuries after his motorcycle collided with a van, according to a McHenry County Coroner’s Office news release An autopsy performed Tuesday found blunt force injuries to the head and chest as the cause of death Neither driver was suspected of being impaired at the scene the Fox Lake Police Department said in a separate news release The crash occurred at 6:13 p.m. on Wilmot Road north of Route 173 near the Wisconsin border Fox Lake Fire Protection District Battalion Chief Ted Damos said A preliminary investigation indicated that the Suzuki motorcycle was southbound on Wilmot Road The motorcycle struck the front passenger corner of the van and the rider was thrown from the motorcycle He landed in the grass on the side of the roadway bystanders at the crash were performing CPR on the motorcycle driver Both drivers were taken to Northwestern Medicine-McHenry Hospital The driver of the second vehicle had injuries not believed to be life-threatening The other driver was identified in the release as a 41-year-old Lake Villa woman The Fox Lake Police Department was investigating the crash and called in the Lake County accident team for assistance, Damos said. Howell said charges are not expected to be filed in connection to the crash. The coroner’s office is continuing to collaborate with the Fox Lake Police Department and Northwestern Medical McHenry Hospital during the investigation, according to the coroner’s news release. Michelle is a reporter for the Northwest Herald that covers Crystal Lake, Cary, Lakewood, Prairie Grove, Fox River Grove and McHenry County College Authorities have arrested one man and are searching for another in connection with the armed robbery of a Fox Lake couple who police say were followed home from a casino after winning big Marcell Britton of Chicago is being held in the Lake County jail facing charges of armed robbery aggravated robbery and robbery of a person older than 60 Fellow suspect Aramie Kent of Maywood remains at large and an arrest warrant has been issued on the same charges the couple were robbed while returning home after winning a considerable amount of money at the Rivers Casino in Des Plaines Police said they had arrived at their residence in the area of Grace Avenue and Rolland Place in Fox Lake when a man approached and pointed a handgun at them The robber tore a paper bag from one of the victim’s hands then fled the scene on foot before getting into a vehicle and driving away Police said that with the assistance of Rivers Casino security and license plate recognition cameras investigators identified Britton and Kent as the suspects Anyone with information on the location of Kent is asked to contact your local police department.