A McDonough County Sheriff’s Deputy will not face criminal charges for his involvement in a fatal crash earlier this year during a police pursuit.
Deputy Evan Schmalshof was in pursuit of a vehicle when the crash occurred around 10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27 on U.S. Route 67 south of Macomb.
James Mellenthin, 35, of Cottage Hills was killed in the crash. He was a flooring installer and father of three.
Illinois State Police began their investigation that night and Schmalshof was placed on paid administrative leave.
McDonough County State’s Attorney Matt Kwacala requested an independent review of the state police investigation by the Illinois Appellate Prosecutor’s Office.
Kwacala said in a press release there is not sufficient evidence to convict Schmalshof of any crime, based on the information available at this time.
So no charges are being filed.
But Kwacala said the review only pertained to criminal liability in the crash.
“Please be advised that the independent review pertained to criminal matters only, and the Appellate Prosecutor’s Office did not, nor was it requested to, make any findings or opinions relating to administrative agency rules or any potential civil liability,” Kwacala said.
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