Lake judge throws out charges against Waukegan clerk, but appeals coming
A Lake County judge Friday dismissed felony charges against Waukegan City Clerk Janet Kilkelly, although prosecutors said they’ll appeal.
Kilkelly, who has been clerk since 2017, was indicted in March with felony official misconduct and misapplication of funds.
The Illinois State Police investigated Kilkelly, which led to a 15-count indictment of illegally providing credits to Waukegan businesses applying for liquor and gambling licenses.
“We respect the court’s opinion but strongly disagree with its findings on this matter,” Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart said in a statement. “We appreciate the hard, ethical, and principled work of the investigators on this case, and plan to appeal in short order.”
Kilkelly’s attorneys said Friday in a statement they were “thankful” but not surprised by the ruling and “were always confident that Janet was 100% innocent of all charges.”
Kilkelly thanked her supporters, noting the last few months had been “very stressful. I am very grateful this is finally over.”
Daily Herald staff reporter Mick Zawislak contributed to this report.