Afternoon News Update: Monday November 17
- A Rockford man was arrested earlier this afternoon after police executed a search warrant of his residence. Upon executing the search warrant, 35-year-old Sherod Thurston attempted to flee the back door of his residence, but was apprehended before getting away. The Rockford Police Department was investigating the resident for the past several weeks for his involvement with selling heroin. Thurston was charged with possession with intent to deliver 1-15 grams of heroin near a school and delivery of 1-15 grams of heroin among other chargees.
- The State Police are stepping up their patrols through Thanksgiving. Illinois State Police announced today that officers will conduct special Traffic Enforcement Patrols until Nov. 30th.Specifically, they'll be on the lookout for speeders. Authorities say speeding the main factor in 3 out of 10 fatal crashes nationwide.
- UPS says it needs 350 package handlers at the Rockford Airport facility to help with what's expected to be a busy holiday shopping season. Temporary package handlers are paid minimum wage, but seasonal package handlers will receive a bonus of $50 per week in November and $100 per week in December
- Two Beloit police officers have been released from a local hospital after their vehicle was struck by a drunk driver. Police say 39-year-old David Dolin crashed into two squad cars near the intersection of Wisconsin and Chapin on Saturday. Dolin, meanwhile, is charged with drunk driving causing injury and is being held at the Rock County Jail.
- Washington city officials say they've exceeded expectations in making repairs from last year’s massive tornados. They estimate 75 percent of roughly 1,100 buildings will be rebuilt by the end of 2014. Governor Pat Quinn visited Washington and neighboring Brookdale earlier today.
- Warming center are now open in Boone and Winnebago counties for the winter season. The centers provide safe, warm locations for those without housing or those who don't have the resources to heat their homes. All tollway oasis serve as warming centers during these times as well.
- A Beloit Woman woman faces her 4th drunk driving charge after being arrested early this morning. Police say 57 year-old Patricia Klinkhammer ran her car off the road near the 700 block of Hackett. Klinkhammer is currently being held at the Rock County Jail.
- Gas prices continue to drop in Rockford. According to GasBuddy.com, the average price per gallon is now $2.96. Current gas prices in Rockford are 28 cents lower than in 2013 and 18 cents lower than one month ago.
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