Extension & 4-H Thriving In Wabash County

The Wabash County Commissioners recently heard an annual update from the University of Illinois Extension office, highlighting expanded services, new programs, and the recent loss of federal SNAP-Ed funding.

Extension staff presented commissioners with a new county snapshot outlining 4-H programs, local foods initiatives, and community outreach efforts. Officials noted that SNAP education services ended last month after federal grant funding was cut.

Extension representatives highlighted expanded office hours in Wabash County, now open five days a week, along with the addition of a new meeting space for 4-H clubs and workshops. The office also partnered with the Wabash County Health Department to install a community blessing box outside the health department, stocked by local 4-H clubs with food, clothing, and hygiene items.

A major success story shared with commissioners was the first year of the “Hunters Feeding Illinois” program in the county. The program allows hunters to donate legally harvested deer to participating processors. This year, Charlie’s Deer Processing and Legacy Meats signed on, resulting in 83 deer donated. That equaled nearly 2,700 pounds of venison — providing more than 10,700 servings of lean protein to local food pantries.

Extension officials say they hope to continue the self-sustaining program through local donations despite the loss of SNAP-Ed funding.

Wabash County 4-H Coordinator Tori Thompson also reported expanded programming in local schools, including STEM activities and teamwork education at area grade schools, St. Mary’s, Allendale, and the high school.

Allendale Twister 4-H Club member Addison Tennis also addressed commissioners, sharing how 4-H has helped her build responsibility, leadership skills, and even launch a goat-raising business.

Commissioners praised the efforts and the strong community impact of local Extension and 4-H programs.

Major Accident Investigation Team investigates serious bodily injury accident

On March 14, 2026, at 3:54 a.m. Gibson County Central Dispatch received a 911 report of an accident with injuries on Interstate 69 near the 34-mile marker.  Upon arriving on scene emergency service personnel found that the driver of the vehicle had been ejected and was in critical condition.  Deputy Levi Sims requested that the Major Accident Investigation Team, a taskforce between the Princeton Police Department and Gibson County Sheriff’s Office, be dispatched to the scene to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. 
 
Preliminary findings indicate that a Black 2014 Ford Fusion was Northbound on Interstate 69 and left the roadway entering the median between north and southbound traffic.  The vehicle ramped a small ditch and then flipped multiple times.  During the crash the driver a 22-year-old male was ejected from the vehicle.  The driver was assessed on scene by emergency service personnel and transported to an area hospital for further treatment.
 
The Major Accident Investigation team was assisted in their investigation by East Gibson Fire Territory, The Gibson County Ambulance Service, and Oakland City Police.
 
This is an ongoing investigation. 
 
 
All criminal defendants are to be presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
 

Arkansas man sentenced to 17+ years for robbing Maryville motel

EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A district judge sentenced an Arkansas man to 210 months’ imprisonment after he admitted to robbing a motel in Maryville at gunpoint.

Rickey Martin, Jr., 36, pleaded guilty in November to one count of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of brandish and use of a firearm during a crime of violence. Following imprisonment, he will serve three years of supervised release. The judge also ordered Martin to pay $1,440 in restitution.

“Gun violence will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “All thieves lack honor, but armed robbers embody a special evil, because they use violence and intimidation to take what they have neither earned, created, nor deserved, from the innocent people who have.”

According to court documents, Martin admitted to robbing the owner of a motel in Maryville in May 2023. He brandished a firearm loaded with an extended magazine and forcefully stole the victim’s wallet and cash from the motel.

“The Maryville Police Department is grateful for the strong partnership between us and our local and federal law enforcement partners that helped bring this case to a successful conclusion,” said Maryville Police Chief Tony Manley. “Investigations like this show that when agencies work together and share information, we can hold offenders accountable and protect our community.”

Shortly after the robbery, Martin used the victim’s credit cards at a gas station and a fast-food restaurant.

“The sentence imposed in this case reflects the serious consequences violent offenders face when they commit violent crimes using firearms,” said ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon. “ATF, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and our law enforcement partners remain steadfast in ensuring that those who commit acts of violence are held accountable.”

ATF and the Maryville Police Department led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ali Burns prosecuted the case.

Haubstadt man arrested on Level 3 Felony after investigation

On March 15, 2026, Gibson County Detective Jennifer Loesch was contacted by law enforcement who were stationed at Deaconess Gateway about an infant who was being treated for what appeared to be a non-accidental head injury.  The law enforcement officer informed Detective Loesch that the injury was believed to have happened in the 5200 block of East 1150 South near Haubstadt in Gibson County. 
 
Detective Sergeant Roger Ballard went to Deaconess Gateway and began an investigation into the incident.  During the incident Detective Ballard spoke with the child’s mother and Child Protective Services while plans were made to fly the child to a children’s hospital elsewhere in the state for treatment of near fatal injuries.
 
Elsewhere Detectives Loesch, Indiana State Trooper Detective William Campbell, and a DCS caseworker went to the residence to speak with the father 23-year-old Zachary Rogers of Haubstadt.  Mr. Rogers was taken to the Gibson County Sheriff’s Office where an audio and video recorded interview was conducted.  During the interview Mr. Rogers admitted to being the cause of the infant’s injuries. 
 
At the conclusion of the investigation Mr. Rogers was booked into the Gibson County Detention Center on preliminary charges of Neglect Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury a Level 3 Felony. 
 
Arresting Officer:  Deputy Jennifer Loesch
Assisting Officers:  Sgt. Roger Ballard, ISP Detective William Campbell, Gibson County Sheriff’s Office. 

All criminal defendants are to be presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Tuesday Is Primary Election Day In Illinois

Primary Election Day is Tuesday across Illinois, with polls open from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m.

Locally in Wabash County, voters will see just one contested race on the ballot. Five candidates are seeking the Republican nomination for Wabash County Commissioner. Those candidates are Mary Sweppy, Missy Judge, David Brown, Jayden Pettyjohn, and Jaleigh Peterson.

The winner of that Republican primary will run unopposed in the November general election, as Democrats did not field a candidate for the position.

Elsewhere in the region, voters in the Illinois 116th House District will decide the Republican nominee for State Representative, where incumbent Dave Severin is facing a primary challenge from Angela Evans.

Statewide, Illinois voters will also be selecting party nominees for U.S. Senator, Governor, and several other constitutional offices as part of Tuesday’s primary election.

Again, polls will be open from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m. Tuesday. Election officials remind voters that anyone in line at 7 p.m. will still be allowed to cast a ballot.

Mount Carmel woman arrested for DUI

On March 15, 2026, at 1 a.m. Gibson County Deputy Michael Bates conducted a traffic stop on a Black 2013 Chevy Cruze for speeding on US 41 near State Road 168.  Upon stopping the vehicle Deputy Bates detected the odor of burnt Marijuana coming from inside the vehicle and observed clues that the driver 19-year-old Evie Tice of Mount Carmel may be under the influence.  At that point he began a roadside DUI investigation.  Once the inquiry was completed Deputy Bates placed Ms. Tice in custody and transported her to the Gibson County Detention Center where she was charged with Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated- Endangerment.
 
Deputy Zach Lienemann and Princeton Officers Logan Lashbrook and Sgt. Ben Kiesel assisted in this investigation. 
 
All criminal defendants are to be presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Saline County man sentenced to 9 years for receiving child sexual abuse material

BENTON, Ill. – A district judge sentenced a Saline County man to 9 years’ imprisonment after he admitted to receiving child sexual abuse material.

James Troy Martin, 51, of Carrier Mills, pleaded guilty to two counts of receipt of child pornography.

“These are not just images. They are real children enduring horrific acts of sexual abuse and exploitation. Every download, share, or receipt of child pornography revictimizes those innocent children, prolonging their trauma and fueling a marketplace built on their suffering,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “Those who participate in this trade are complicit in the ongoing rape and torment of kids who deserve protection, not the perpetuation of their victimization.”

According to court documents, Martin received at least two images of child sexual abuse material depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct in Saline County between February and April 2024.

“This sentencing sends a clear message: those who exploit children by receiving child sexual abuse material will be held accountable,” said HSI Chicago Special Agent in Charge, Matthew Scarpino. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting children and pursuing justice for victims. HSI will continue to work with our partners to ensure offenders face the consequences of their actions.”

Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney David Sanders prosecuted the case.

ISP ARRESTS WHITE COUNTY CORRECTIONAL OFFICER FOR CUSTODIAL SEXUAL MISCONDUCT

CARMI – Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 8 Special Agents arrested 57-year-old Darren R. Hays of Carmi, IL for six counts of Custodial Sexual Misconduct (Class 3 Felony) and one count of Official Misconduct (Class 3 Felony).

 On November 11, 2025, the White County Sheriff’s Office requested ISP’s assistance with an investigation involving Hays, a correctional officer at the White County Jail. An extensive investigation revealed that Hays allegedly engaged in a sexual relationship with a female inmate while on-duty at the jail.

 On March 11, 2026, ISP Special Agents presented the case to the Gallatin County State’s Attorney’s Office, who filed the above-mentioned charges and issued an arrest warrant. ISP arrested Hays the same day and transported him to the Saline County Detention Center where he remains in custody pending his first court appearance. There is no further information.

WGH Hosts Open House & Patient Appreciation Day In Albion

Wabash General Hospital hosted an open house and patient appreciation event Thursday at its Albion Medical Clinic, celebrating the growth of the facility and the support it has received from the Edwards County community.

WGH President and CEO Karissa Turner said the clinic began as a vision from local physicians Dr. Justin Miller and Dr. Levi McDaniel, who wanted to expand healthcare services in their hometown.

Turner says the idea dates back to 2017, when hospital leaders sought voter approval to provide services outside Wabash County. She says the community strongly supported the plan, allowing the hospital to move forward with establishing services in Edwards County.

Turner noted the clinic was originally housed in a former bank building and required significant renovations before opening as a small medical clinic. Since then, she says the facility has continued to grow as more patients and services have been added.

Today, the Albion clinic offers primary care, orthopedic care, chiropractic services, podiatry, lab and radiology services, and most recently psychiatric care through nurse practitioner Leanne Lear.

Turner says the hospital has continued investing in the location to expand exam space and bring additional services closer to area residents.

Thursday’s event also marked the kickoff of a year-long celebration of Wabash General Hospital’s 75th anniversary. Similar patient appreciation events are planned at other WGH locations throughout the coming year.

Illinois abortion clinics gain renewed support despite Republican, pro-life pushback

Abortion access is strengthened through independent clinics, recent funding measures

BY SAM FREEMAN & OLIVIA ARDITO 

Medill Illinois News Bureau 

news@capitolnewsillinois.com 

Article Summary: 

• Despite a Republican-led push for bills restricting abortion access, Illinois continues to serve as an abortion travel destination and celebrates 30 years of National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day this week.

• Although out-of-state abortion patients are declining, Midwest advocates, like the Midwest Access Coalition and the Chicago Abortion Fund, work hard to provide financial support for patients. 

• Beyond financial support, advocates work to coordinate the complicated logistics of interstate travel to make abortion care accessible for all who need it.

SPRINGFIELD — Two years after the overturning of Roe v. Wade, a mother of two found herself in an agonizing position. 

Abbey Hall and her husband were excited to welcome a baby girl into their family in Carmel, Indiana, but discovered, 16-weeks into her pregnancy, a defect that would make their daughter’s life unviable, with lifelong and potentially fatal health conditions. But the state that she calls home has a near-total abortion ban. 

To receive the care she needed, Hall had to travel to a Planned Parenthood clinic in Illinois. She is one of 35,000 people who were forced to travel to Illinois to find care out-of-state in 2024. 

“I felt dehumanized; I felt like a criminal,” Hall told the Indiana Capital Chronicle. “I would make the same decision 100 times out of 100.”

As Illinois marked National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day on Tuesday, states around the country and Republicans in the General Assembly persistently push for bills restricting abortion access. Abortion was a controversial issue long before Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022, but now, four years later, patients and providers have been met with a new wave of obstacles.

National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day commemorates Dr. David Gunn, who was murdered by an anti-abortion white supremacist in 1993 in Pensacola, Florida. Established in 1996, the day recognizes those who provide care, despite facing violence and threats.

Barriers to abortion care

When seeking an abortion, hindrances to care range from state restrictions to logistical challenges, including child care and travel expenses. Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade, 13 states have implemented a near-total abortion ban, three in the Midwest.

This has forced thousands of patients, like Hall, to seek care in states that protect abortion access. In 2024, nearly a quarter of all out-of-state abortions took place in Illinois, according to the Guttmacher Institute. These numbers have since declined, likely due to shield laws that allow clinicians to prescribe and mail abortion pills directly to patients and to logistical and financial barriers. 

In 2025, Gov. JB Pritzker implemented a shield law that protects all Illinois health care workers from being prosecuted in Illinois or other states for performing abortions, even if abortions are illegal in other states. 

Read more: New laws aim to shield providers of abortion meds, ban ticketing in schools

Nonprofit organizations like the Midwest Access Coalition work to bridge those logistical and financial barriers by covering travel expenses, including flights and hotels, the cost of medical care and child care. 

“There are just a million and one things that stop people from accessing care, and that's been the anti-choice movement’s goal for the past 50 years,” said Alison Dreith, director of strategic partnerships at the Midwest Access Coalition.

The Midwest Access Coalition has also helped supply some independent clinics with physical lock boxes that hold cash for clinics to give to patients to cover immediate costs. 

“Some people don't have Cash App or Venmo, and oftentimes those apps charge fees to access that money right away, and people can't wait overnight to get the gas money to get back home or to pay their babysitter to pick up their kids,” Dreith said. 

While state restrictions pose the biggest obstacle, Illinois residents can still face similar logistical and financial barriers, for example, if they have to drive an hour or two to a clinic to receive care. 

“Not having abortion care as just a part of general gynecological or family practice medicine is such a disservice to us,” Dreith said. “It's such simple care.” 

Even something like anesthesia, which can be used in abortion procedures, may require an adult escort to ensure the patient gets home safely. A program called the Complex Abortion Regional Line for Access, or CARLA, helps coordinate trained volunteers to provide that required assistance. The program was launched in response to the overturning of Roe v. Wade, to coordinate care for people who need it.  

“This is why I became a nurse, to be able to provide care for folks who need it,” said Catherine Degen, a CARLA nurse coordinator at Rush Hospital in Chicago. 

Republican pushback 

While there are efforts to protect and expand abortion access in Illinois, some state lawmakers are pushing for increased restrictions. 

“(Planned Parenthood) will pay for an overnight or whatever, and they pay for the transportation home unless the woman changes her mind,” State Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro,  claimed. “So if she gets here and changes her mind, she gets no help getting home, right?”

Bryant, who is one of multiple state representatives who oppose the work of organizations like the Midwest Access Coalition, has sponsored multiple bills, such as the Ultrasound Opportunity Act, which opponents claim is aimed at deterring abortions. The bill calls for providers to “offer any woman seeking an abortion after eight weeks of gestation an opportunity to receive and view an active ultrasound of her unborn child by someone qualified to perform ultrasounds.”

Dreith says Bryant’s claims are common but untrue. Whether a patient chooses to get an abortion or not, the Midwest Access Coalition supports them every step of the way. 

After Dreith drove a client from jail to an abortion clinic, the patient changed her mind, and Dreith drove her back. 

“We are not disobeying the law. We're not paying anyone to have an abortion,” Dreith said. “We're just a part of this community care network that puts people above profits.” 

State efforts to expand access

In addition to organizations like the Midwest Access Coalition, there are multiple funds to help ensure that Illinois access not only remains protected but sufficiently funded and supported. 

In January, the Prairie State Access Fund was launched, creating a $5 million, public-private partnership between Michael Reese Health Trust and the state of Illinois to support reproductive and sexual health providers. It also provides rapid-response funding to ensure clinics are staffed for both Illinoisans and out-of-state patients. 

Read more: Hytrek: As Illinois increasingly becomes destination for abortion access, a new public-private partnership emerges

The Chicago Abortion Fund is the nation’s largest abortion fund, receiving financial support from philanthropy, grassroots donors and the city, county and state. Its goal is stated as making the process of getting an abortion more dignified and compassionate by covering costs, as they consider their work as harm reduction. 

“Illinois providers and CAF are playing an outsized role in the national abortion landscape, and sustaining that role requires flexible, additive support,” said Megan Jeyifo, executive director of the Chicago Abortion Fund, in a press release. “The Prairie State Access Fund strengthens a constellation of care that has been meeting this moment for years and reinforces the networks patients rely on to access abortion with dignity and compassion.”

Still, new challenges continue to appear for health care providers and supporting organizations. In addition to Bryant’s bills, which she proposes every year. Sen. Neil Anderson, R-Andalusia, recently introduced a new bill that would classify abortion as homicide. The bill is widely unsupported, even among Republican lawmakers. 

Read more: Illinois Republican senator pushes to outlaw abortion, loses leadership spots 

Despite Republican pushback, advocates and providers maintain the need for abortion access both in Illinois and across the country. Programs like the CARLA program do this by ensuring that patients—regardless of residency—receive the care they need. 

“My hope would be that something like the CARLA program could expand to other places because I think it would be incredibly helpful for us to exist in other parts of the country,” Degen said. “We’re so happy to be here in Illinois, but it’s needed everywhere.”

Sam Freeman and Olivia Artito are graduate students in journalism with Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications, and fellows in its Medill Illinois News Bureau working in partnership with Capitol News Illinois. 

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service that distributes state government coverage to hundreds of news outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.