Judge authorizes consumptive DNA testing in Galesburg murder case
A judge authorized DNA testing in a Galesburg murder case, even though it may use up the remaining DNA in the sample.
Christopher E. Alfaro, 27, is charged with first degree murder and aggravated battery in the Aug. 17 shooting death of Heath D. Williams Sr. in the 1400 block of Moshier Avenue.
Police collected touch DNA samples at the scene from zip ties found in the garage, from the victim’s neck and wrists, and from a red vape.
Prosecutors sent the samples to the Illinois State Police forensic science laboratory in Morton for testing, but were informed that the DNA could be consumed entirely by the process.
Prosecutors believe DNA testing may provide probative evidence concerning the case.
Macomb council approves loan for small business competition finalist
One of the winners of this year’s small business competition in Macomb is getting a loan from the city as it prepares to open.
The city council this week approved a $15,000 revolving loan for Bloom Macomb.
The flower shop asked for the loan to help pay for a cooler, signage, and some initial inventory.
Bloom Macomb finished second in the small business competition, which concluded in mid-March.
Its prize was $6,000, which it can collect after opening.
The city said the business is still finalizing its location and plans to start operating by the end of the year.
New Des Moines County Health Department opens Tuesday
The Des Moines County Health Department is closed until Tuesday, Oct. 14 as it moves to its new building.
Officials held a ribbon-cutting and open house this week for the new building at 505 Curran St. in Burlington.
The COVID-19 pandemic showed the limitations of the existing facility on North 3rd Street, according to the health department.
The new $4 million health department building was funded by American Rescue Plan funds and features better parking, more lobby space, and a drive-through lane for vaccinations.
Knox College to host culture war dialogue
The new Etz Family Institute for Civic Leadership and Dialogue at Knox College will host its first public event next week.
The free event, “Learning to Disagree Across the Culture Wars,” will be at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 16, at the Orpheum Theatre, 57 S. Kellogg St.
It will feature a conversation between John Corvino and John Inazu, two renowned experts in civil discourse. They will explore how to navigate cultural and political differences with empathy and respect. The event kicks off the Institute’s annual lecture series, aimed at promoting respectful, productive discussion, and developing the virtues of citizenship necessary for sustaining a diverse democracy.
Monmouth-Roseville to fill school board vacancy
The Monmouth-Roseville Board of Education is looking to fill a short-term vacancy.
The person selected would serve on the board from the time of appointment until April of next year and should be familiar with board policies and responsibilities.
Board chair PJ Brooks will accept letters of application until Nov. 7.
Letters can be sent to the district office at 105 N. E St., Monmouth, IL, 61462.
Tri States Public Radio produced these stories. TSPR relies on financial support from our readers and listeners in order to provide coverage of the issues that matter to west central Illinois, southeast Iowa, and northeast Missouri. As someone who values the content created by TSPR's news department please consider making a financial contribution.