Afternoon news update: April 17, 2015

Rockford Diocese Bishop David Malloy has issued a statement following the passing of Cardinal Francis George. Cardinal George died after a long battle with bladder, kidney and liver cancer. He was 78-years-old. Cardinal George was the first Archbishop of Chicago to actually come from Chicago, and served in the post for 17 years before health problems forced him to retire in November of 2014. Malloy said in the statement, “Cardinal George has played a unique role in the life of the church in the United States and the world. The gifts of his faith, his intellect, his strong leadership and vast experience, combined with his joy and love for the church, have served as an inspiration and a witness throughout his priesthood." Cardinal George was the principal consecrator when Malloy was ordained and installed as the Bishop of Rockford.
A young woman is fighting for her life after being shot on Rockford’s west side last night. Police found the 19-year-old woman at Oakley St. near Sherman Street with a head wound around eight o’clock. Her identity is not being released. She is in critical condition today. Neighbors say they heard at least 4 gunshots. It's believed the victim lives near the scene.
A Rockford doctor faces new charges after allegations of sexual misconduct with his elderly patients are reported. Winnebago County State's Attorney Joe Bruscato says Dr. Charles Dehann faces more than two dozen new counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse and criminal sexual abuse. The allegations against Dehann stem from incidents that happened between October 2010 and December 2013. Dehann is being held on $500,000 bond.
The Winnebago County Sheriff's Office is investigating the disappearance of 27-year old Moheb Diab. He was last seen leaving his house in Machesney Park on Sunday, April 12^th. Diab is driving a red Nissan Versa with Illinois plates E-89-5702. Anyone who sees Diab or his car is asked to contact the sheriff's department.
The Stateline Strong Telethon on Thursday from our news partners at WTVO/WQRF raised almost $120,000 for tornado relief efforts with more to be counted. All of the money raised will be distributed through the American Red Cross. You can still donate at redcross.org.
Governor Bruce Rauner is back in the area today, surveying tornado damage in both Fairdale and Rochelle. It’s the first time the governor has seen the destruction of Fairdale in DeKalb County. The National Weather Service now confirms that 11 tornadoes struck northern Illinois on April 9th.

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