Attorney General Kwame Raoul has brought charges against Jacalyn Walker, a 35-year-old woman from Carlinville, over allegations of theft from the Macoupin County State’s Attorney's office. As the office manager, she is accused of funneling out several thousand dollars intended to combat drug-related crimes. According to a press release issued by Raoul's office, Walker faces one count of theft of government property, a Class 2 felony, alongside additional charges of wire fraud and official misconduct.
The Attorney General's allegations suggest that between November 2023 and May 2024, Walker managed to illegally transfer a total of $7,000 from the drug asset forfeiture account to her personal bank account. "My office regularly partners with state’s attorneys around Illinois to protect residents from individuals who prey upon children, traffic drugs and guns, and so much more. It is unacceptable that someone would take advantage of their position to steal funding recovered as state’s attorneys protect communities from illicit drugs," Raoul stated, underscoring the gravity of the situation. These funds are specifically earmarked to support drug enforcement initiatives, not for personal enrichment.
This case comes to light following an investigation by the Illinois State Police Division of Special Investigations. ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly highlighted the importance of public trust in the administration of funds: "During our investigation, the ISP Special Investigations Unit found evidence of a public official trying to steal thousands of dollars from the county," he told the media. The ISP is resolved to uphold this trust and will continue its collaborative efforts with the Attorney General's Office to investigate instances of theft and corruption.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Mara Somlo of Raoul’s Public Integrity Bureau.
