Children's Advocacy Center honors judge, officer

The Lake County Children's Advocacy Center this week honored an associate judge and a Waukegan police officer for their work on child abuse cases.

Associate Judge Daniel Shanes, who spent 12 years as a Lake County prosecutor before his appointment to the bench last year, was named the recipient of the Fred L. Foreman Award.

State's Attorney Michael Waller said Shanes, of Mundelein, prosecuted scores of child abuse cases and understood the impact a prosecutor has on the life of the victims and their families.

A noted legal researcher and scholar, Shanes is known for his willingness to mentor others and share his experience, Waller said.

Sgt. Corey Kelly of the Waukegan police was given the law enforcement award for her work as an investigator for the center for more than two years.

Waller said Kelly provided sensitive interviews and thorough investigations, resulting in dozens of successful prosecutors.

Party reminders

The holiday party season is upon us, and Mothers Against Drunken Driving is urging hosts not to allow their guests to over-celebrate.

MADD is cautioning party hosts not to rely on coffee to sober up guests, because only time can reduce the effects of alcohol on a person.

Further, the group reminds people that drink mixers do not dilute alcohol or lessen its effects, and that beer and wine are just as intoxicating as hard liquor.

Funding approved

The state's attorney's office has received continued funding for its violent crimes victim's assistance program.

State's Attorney Michael Waller said this year's budget for the program contains $26,000 in grant funds and $38,370 in county money.

The program provides counseling for crime victims and witnesses and helps them to understand the criminal justice system.