Afternoon News Update: Wednesday, January 14
- The CFO of Rockford Schools has resigned. Cedric Lewis's last paid day is July 1st. He was been on administrative leave through June 30th. The resignation was not discussed during last night's school board meeting. District 205 is working on the next steps to fill the position.
- A former Machesney Park man has been indicted for bankruptcy fraud. 54-year-old Robert Yonkee filed for chapter 11 in 2008. Sources say he hid is ownership of a business that sells auto parts. He faces up to five years in prison and will be sentenced on April 2nd.
- A 21-year-old man has been found guilty of armed robbery with a firearm today in a Winnebago County Court. Lamarcus Bassett robbed a victim at gunpoint at a cookout on Rockford’s northwest side in June of last year. Bassett faces between 21 and 45 years in prison because of his use of a firearm in the robbery. Sentencing is scheduled for February 19th.
- Two people are dead and two others are injured after two related overnight shootings in Rockford. 28-year-old Benito Martinez of Rockford died from his wounds in the 700 block of Oakley. Additionally, 22-year-old Tirina Mitchell of Rockford was also pronounced dead at a hospital after she was found shot in an SUV at the corner of Edgemont Street and Knight Avenue. The two other victims are recovering from their injuries. No suspects have been named. Anyone with information is urged to call Rockford Police.
- The NIU student association is exploring the possibility lowering the age for entry into nightlife establishments in the City of DeKalb from 21 to 20 years old. They claim the lowered age will help entice students to stay on campus on weekends and encourage a more vibrant student experience. Officials with the student association believe it would benefit both businesses and students alike.
- A thief has targeted several vehicles at a Loves Park bar this week and authorities are warning drivers to be on the lookout. Police released a picture of the alleged suspect. He's accused of stealing from at least four cars at Neighbors Bar on Forest Hills Road. Police say he even got kicked out of the bar at one point for stealing a cell phone.
- Police are searching for suspects after a home invasion last night in Rockford. responded to call for a home invasion. Officers were called to the 3500 block of Gilbert Avenue after multiple suspects allegedly forced entry through a residence but were confronted by the home owner. Officials say shots were fired by the suspects as they fled, but the homeowner didn’t return fire. An investigation is ongoing.
- Teachers at Kishwaukee College could strike as early as this Friday after another round of contract negotiations fails. The college board and teachers' union met for five hours on Monday night. The Kishwaukee College Education Association has filed an intent to strike. The next mediation session is one week from tomorrow.
- The Pregnancy Care Center of Rockford, formally known as The Rockford Area Pregnancy Care Center, is hosting a grand opening this afternoon. The opening and ribbon cutting will be in the 4900 block E. State St. from 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. The center focuses on bringing community members help and hope in an event of an unplanned pregnancy. The orignal location has been in Rockford for more than 30 years.
- Several buildings on the Illinois State University campus were affected when a water main valve broker and flooded streets. Water was shut off Tuesday afternoon to the Bone Student Center, Milner Library, Metcalf Laboratory School and the Bowling and Billiards Center. Officials say restaurants at the student center will be closed through Wednesday.
- Wisconsin residents will get a chance to comment on a Republican-backed bill that would force failing public schools to close and reopen as charter schools. The Assembly Education Committee has scheduled a hearing today on the measure. Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker has said passing an accountability measure early in the session is a priority.
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