The investigation found that a Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant used ALPR data for personal purposes without a legitimate law enforcement reason. Based on those findings, Sheriff John F. Booker moved to terminate the Sergeant’s employment. The Sergeant resigned before the disciplinary process concluded.
“Our deputies are given access to powerful tools because the public trusts us to use them only to protect this community,” Sheriff Booker said. “When that trust was violated, I determined that termination was warranted. Misuse of these systems will not be tolerated from anyone, regardless of rank or years of service.”
The Sheriff’s Office has referred the matter to the Illinois State Police for further review. Questions about that review should be directed to the Illinois State Police.
Sheriff Booker has suspended this ALPR data access for all Sheriff’s Office personnel. The office is also strengthening its policies and audit procedures for the use of law enforcement information systems.
“While this news is disappointing, the actions of one employee do not reflect the values of this office or the outstanding work done every day by the men and women who serve Whiteside County,” Sheriff Booker said. “The Sheriff’s Office remains committed to transparency, accountability, and earning the public’s trust every day.”
