DuPage board member's son faces drug sale charge

The 18-year-old son of DuPage County Board member Patrick O'Shea is facing a felony drug charge for attempting to sell cocaine last week in Lombard, authorities said.

Collin M. O'Shea, of the 1000 block of South Fairview Avenue in Lombard, has been charged with one count of unlawful delivery of a controlled substance. If convicted of the Class 1 felony, he could be sentenced from four to 15 years in prison.

Authorities said O'Shea attempted to sell more than one gram — but less than 15 grams — of cocaine about 9:30 p.m. Thursday near the intersection of North Avenue and Route 53. He was arrested as part of a monthlong investigation by Lombard police and the DuPage County Metropolitan Enforcement Group, officials said.

He was released from the county jail after posting $7,500 bond and is due in court March 12.

Patrick O'Shea, the longest-serving member of the county board, was first elected in 1990. He decided not to seek another term on the board to run for judge in the March 20 Republican primary.

On Monday, Patrick O'Shea issued a written statement saying that he and his family are “deeply saddened” by what happened.

“My son's contact with the legal system will undoubtedly change his life and our lives forever,” he said.

Patrick O'Shea said his son was enrolled in college and working part-time.

“All of that will change for him now,” Patrick O'Shea said. “My family's thoughts and prayers are with Collin.

“This unfortunate situation affects many families each year,” he added, “and my family is no different.”