Illinois Police Officer Charged With Stealing Drugs

A high-ranking Illinois police officer was arrested and charged with stealing prescription drugs from his department’s unwanted-medication program, the Beacon-News reports.

Deputy Chief Dave Delaney of the Yorkville Police Department was charged with felonies possession of a controlled substance and theft of government property, according to Kendall County State’s Attorney Eric Weis.

The charges are the least severe class of felony, punishable by one to three years in prison and a fine up to $25,000, or probation.

According to the Beacon-News, Weis said Delaney is accused of taking prescription drugs from the program for his personal use. Delaney was arrested Friday by Illinois State Police.

Yorkville Police Chief Rich Hart said Delaney was put on administrative leave as of Friday. While on leave, Delaney is not allowed to identify himself as a Yorkville police officer or act as one.

Delaney posted $2,500 and was released. His first court date was set for July 6.

According to the Chicago Tribune, Delaney had been named Officer of the Year by the Oswegoland Optimist Club in 1999, and though just 36, had risen through the ranks in Yorkville to become one of two deputy chiefs last year.

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