Island Lake cops honored for DUI arrests

Several Island Lake police officers have been honored for staying tough on DUI arrests, the Click it or Ticket program and participating in a torch run for Special Olympics.

Village officials announced the Illinois Department of Transportation has recognized seven Island Lake officers for making at least 25 DUI arrests since 2001.

Officers Garret Schmoeller, Vincent Pagliaro, James Gainer, Michael Wahl and Sergeant Dennis Knight each made at least 29 arrests during that period. Officer Jeffery Fleming made 50 arrests and Officer Walter Szarowicz made 66 arrests.

"It's an honor to work with these officers," Police Chief William McCorkle said during the village board meeting Thursday night when the announcements were made. "They do very well for the department and the village."

Officers were also recognized for their work on the Click it or Ticket seat belt enforcement program and their participation in a law enforcement torch run for Illinois Special Olympics.

Officer John Janecke said the department raised nearly $700 last year for Illinois Special Olympics and he anticipates this year's numbers will reach similar heights.

"Our department has sponsored and worked with the torch run every year," Janecke said. "For the first time since I've been here in 10 years our chief participated. He drove an escort car."

McCorkle said he plans to recognize the accomplishments of his officers more frequently than they have been in the past.