Recently a Union County citizen was arrested and charged with embezzlement for stealing over $35,000 from a small business in Elgin. This is not the first time this individual has been involved in this type of crime. Since the crime was committed, the Union County court system has postponed the trial proceedings twice. The latest is so further negotiations can be held ? What exactly could be negotiated ? Clearly this is just another example of why crime continues to escalate even in our small community.

After speaking with numerous citizens concerned by the postponements we feel an explanation from the DA is appropriate. Why should an obvious career criminal be allowed such privileges while the victims continue to suffer the consequences of the crime?

Criminals like this person will continue their ways unless they feel the negative effects of their criminal behavior. The only negotiations between the judicial system and the plaintiff should be the length of time incarcerated. Restitution, including wage garnishment and personal property forfeiture should also be points of negotiation, not conversations about early release based on phony good behavior.

Hopefully the sitting judges and DA’s office will understand how honest people feel about cases similar to this one.

John Shea

Elgin

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