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MADISON - ST. CLAIR RECORD

Thursday, March 28, 2024

Another Caseyville cop sues claiming Village violated Whistleblower Act

The Village of Caseyville is being sued again for the alleged actions of its now deceased police chief by an officer who says he was harassed and threatened by his boss after filing complaints against him.

Jeff Wilkinson filed the lawsuit June 24 in St. Clair County Court against the Village of Caseyville.

Wilkinson says he was an officer in good standing when he joined others in signing a letter alleging misconduct and malfeasance within the Caseyville Police Department in April 2012. That letter, entitlted, "Ongoing Problems with Chief Roth," was sent to Mayor George Chance and members of the police committee on the city's board of trustees, according to the complaint.

After sending the letter, Wilkinson claims he was harassed, intimidated and threatened with demotion by Chief J.D. Roth in retaliation for filing the complaint. He alleges the city knew of the chief's actions and did nothing to stop it.

Wilkinson accuses the Village of Caseyville of violating Illinois' Whistleblower Act for failing to protect him from retaliation.

He asks for more than $50,000 in damages and court costs. Attorney John J. Hopkins of Alton represents Wilkinson. They request a jury trial.

Roth died June 13 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He had been facing two charges of official misconduct brought by the St. Clair County State’s Attorney.

A similar lawsuit was filed against Roth and the Village by Caseville police officer Scott Miller. The case is ongoing in St. Clair County.

St. Clair County Circuit Court Case No. 13-L-313

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