Deerfield Police Community Service Officer Accused of Stealing www.privateofficer.com
An arrest warrant was issued May 9 for Dowell, a 50-year-old Wauconda resident, charging him with official misconduct, a Class 3 felony, and theft, a Class Two felony, Deerfield police said.
The charges were brought after a preliminary investigation by Deerfield police discovered that Dowell allegedly took $250. Further investigation by Deerfield police and the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Special Investigations Division uncovered the theft of “more than $500, but less than $10,000,” police said.
Investigators are determining the period during which the thefts allegedly occurred. Dowell was an employee with the police department for 24 years.
Dowell lost his position, which carried no police power, as soon as the alleged theft was uncovered. The position is generally one of providing support services.
“The Village of Deerfield and the Deerfield Police Department set a very high standard for the conduct of its employees and behavior of this type cannot and will not be condoned,” Deerfield Police Chief John Sliozis said.
Dowell surrendered May 10 to Lake County authorities. He was released on $15,000 bond after posting the required 10 percent.
If Dowell is found guilty of a Class 3 felony, he faces two to five years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. A Class 2 felony is punishable by three to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
Because the investigation is pending, no further information will be released at this time, according to a statement by Deerfield Deputy Police Chief Rick Wilk.
A preliminary hearing is set for 10:30 a.m. May 30 in Waukegan.
