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Calhoun County Sheriff's Office, Hardin, IL (2026)

10/13/2026

PRESS RELEASE

Calhoun County Sheriff Zach Hardin is pleased to announce the conclusion of an investigation which began on January 10th 2026; when the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a spree of vandalism and property damage in rural Golden Eagle, Calhoun County, Illinois.

The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office immediately began an investigation, and noted that approximately eighteen (18) mailboxes were damaged, stolen, or destroyed; and multiple road signs had been uprooted or otherwise damaged.

Law Enforcement Officials from the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office processed the large number of individual crime scenes, collected evidence and conducted numerous field interviews. During the investigation and review of surveillance footage, several vehicles were identified. Sheriff Hardin travelled to Madison County to conduct further interviews and identify suspects.

Sheriff Hardin continued the investigation, and on January 23rd, 2026, requested and was granted a Court Authorized Search Warrant for additional digital evidence. This search warrant was executed electronically and additional evidence was collected.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the matter was forwarded to the Calhoun County State’s Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

On April 20th 2026, Calhoun County State’s Attorney Lucas Fanning issued Warrants of Arrest for six (6) suspects identified pursuant to the investigation:

• Dylan J Cato, aged 19, of Brighton, Illinois, was charged with Unlawful Consumption of Alcohol by Minor, and Felony Mob Action. Cato was arrested on April 25th 2026 by the Glen Carbon Police Department.

• Tyler C Eyanson, aged 19, of Bethalto Illinois, was charged with Unlawful Consumption of Alcohol by Minor, Criminal Damage to Property, and Felony Mob Action. Eyanson was arrested on April 25th 2026 by the Jerseyville Police Department.

• Benito E Biciocchi, aged 19, of Alton, Illinois, was charged with the offenses of Felony Mob Action and Criminal Damage to Property. Biciocchi was arrested on April 28th 2026 by the Alton Police Department.

• Mason D Groves, aged 19, of Brighton, Illinois, was charged with the Offense of Felony Mob Action. Groves was arrested on August 26th 2026 by the Wood River Police Department.

• Gabe F Rawlings, aged 19, of Medora, Illinois, was charged with the offenses of Felony Mob Action and Criminal Damage to Property. Rawlings was arrested on August 26th 2026 by the Jersey County Sheriff’s Department.

• Bryant J Stormer, aged 20, of Bunker Hill, Illinois, was charged with the offenses of Mob Action and Criminal Damage to Property. On May 20th 2026, Stormer turned himself into the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office

All suspects appeared as directed, before the Honorable Judge Charles HW Burch in the 8th Circuit Court of Calhoun County to answer to their charges.

Subsequent to negotiated plea deals entered upon August 4th 2026 and September 15th 2026:

• Cato pled Guilty to Unlawful Consumption of Alcohol by Minor and an amended charge of Misdemeanor Mob Action.

• Biciocchi pled Guilty to Criminal Damage to Property and an amended charge of Misdemeanor Mob Action.

• Groves pled Guilty to an amended charge of Misdemeanor Mob Action.

• Rawlings pled Guilty to Criminal Damage to Property and an amended charge of Misdemeanor Mob Action.

• Eyanson pled Guilty to Criminal Damage to Property and an amended charge of Misdemeanor Mob Action.

• Stormer pled Guilty to Criminal Damage to Property and an amended charge of Misdemeanor Mob Action.

The Honorable Charles HW Burch sentenced all six (6) defendants to two years of withheld judgement court supervision, 100 hours of community service, and they are directed to pay restitution to the victims.

The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Jersey County Sheriff’s Department, Alton Police Department, Jerseyville Police Department, Glen Carbon Police Department, and the Wood River Police Department for their assistance in the apprehension of the suspects.

The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office would also like to thank the Calhoun County State’s Attorney’s Office for their assistance in the investigation and subsequent prosecution.

Sheriff Zach Hardin stated the following:

“Crimes against our citizens and their property will always be taken seriously by the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office. These matters will always be investigated to the fullest extent; regardless of the value of the property. If you commit crimes in Calhoun County, you will be held accountable.

This was an extensive and exhaustive investigation, but one that showcased our agencies investigative prowess. I am grateful to the members of this agency for their assistance and hard work on this investigation.

These young men experienced a lapse in judgement; but with a “withheld judgement” supervision ruling in this matter, they now have an opportunity to give back to the community, and if they follow directives of the court they can put all these matters behind them.”

10/09/2026

PUBLIC NOTICE: Flaggers at Joe Page Bridge

This weekend, October 10th - 11th 2026, the Village of Kampsville is having their 45th Annual “Old Settlers Days”.

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) will have flaggers from 11AM - 7PM, at the Joe Page Bridge to assist with traffic this weekend.

We ask that everyone drive safely, follow instructions from those directing traffic, and plan your routes accordingly!

Have a fun and safe weekend!

- Sheriff Zach Hardin

09/30/2026

Public Notice:

The Calhoun County Sheriff's Office is adding two (2) new full-time positions to the roster and we are now accepting applications for the full-time positions of Deputy Sheriff and Bailiff / Court Security.

Applications can be picked up in person at the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office or on our website at: www.calhouncountyil.gov

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NOW HIRING – DEPUTY SHERIFF

Position Title: Deputy Sheriff
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Wage: $31.00 / HR.
Hours: Must have open availability and willingness to work nights and weekends.
Location: Calhoun County, Illinois

Description: The Calhoun County Sheriff's Department is accepting applications for the position of Full-Time Deputy Sheriff. We are seeking highly motivated, ethical, and service-oriented individuals who are committed to protecting the citizens of Calhoun County through professional law enforcement and community service.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties: The Deputy Sheriff’s primary function is to protect life and property in Calhoun County, patrolling assigned area to maintain order, enforce laws and provide assistance to citizens as needed; responds to reports of misdemeanors or felonies and performs preliminary observations and investigations; takes offense reports, gather evidence; shall secure scene of crimes and accidents; maintains traffic; takes traffic accident reports on private and public property.

Desirable Abilities and Knowledge: Excellent verbal communication skills; ability to work nights and weekends. Certified Illinois Law Enforcement Officers who possess a valid certification from the Illinois Basic Law Enforcement Course. Qualities: Compassion, confidentiality, dependability, integrity, professionalism, and a strong work ethic are a necessity.

Functions Include:

• Patrol Operations: Patrol assigned areas of Calhoun County. Respond to emergency and non-emergency calls for service and public complaints. Enforce the Illinois Vehicle Code by monitoring traffic, investigating traffic accidents, rendering aid and the issuance of citations. Enforce federal, state, and local laws. Work cooperatively with local, state, and federal agencies. Maintain positive relationships with the community through compassionate and professional public service.

• Investigations and Enforcement: Investigate felony and misdemeanor crimes, suspicious conditions and safety hazards. Interview victims, witnesses, and suspects. Gather and process physical evidence at crime scenes. Catalog and maintain evidence. Prepare detailed reports, draft search warrants, affidavits, and testify in court. Execute warrants and affect arrests.

• Court and Civil Responsibilities: Serve court documents, such as subpoenas, warrants, and summonses. Act as bailiff or court security. Enforce court orders. Transport prisoners between county jails, court, and medical facilities. And perform courthouse duties as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
1. U.S. Citizen and resident of the State of Illinois.
2. Must be 21 years of age.
3. Must possess a Valid Driver’s License and FOID card.
4. High School Diploma or GED Certificate
5. Not have any felony or certain misdemeanor convictions from any jurisdiction
6. Must be able to maintain department qualification standards in the use of fi****ms.
7. Must be a resident of Calhoun County, IL or reside within thirty (30) miles; within your first year of employment.
8. Meet all standards established by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB).
9. Pass the Illinois P.O.W.E.R. Test for physical fitness.
10. Complete or provide proof of completion of the Illinois Basic Law Enforcement Training Course.
11. Successfully complete a background investigation, medical examination, psychological evaluation, drug screening, and any additional testing required by the Sheriff's Office.
12. Must possess and exercise sound judgement in reacting to emergency situations and using physical force necessary to defend oneself and others.

Benefits

• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (SLEP).
• Tenured longevity pay, paid vacation, twelve (12) paid holidays, and sick leave.
• Take Home squad car.
• Uniforms and duty equipment provided.
• Paid training and professional development opportunities.

Application Process:
All applicants are to submit a completed application with attached forms along with a cover letter and resume to the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office; 301 S. County Rd., Hardin, IL 62047, or by e-mail to Sheriff Zach Hardin : [email protected].

Applicants are to complete an application, are subject to drug screening, physical fitness evaluation; and must be able to provide a fit for duty waiver from a physician, pass a background investigation, and undergo interview and review by The Sheriff.

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NOW HIRING – COURT SECURITY

Position Title: Court Security Officer - Bailiff
Job Type: Full time/Part-Time, Armed - Non-Union Position
Pay Wage: $20.00/hr.
Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Location: Calhoun County Courthouse – Hardin, IL 62047

Description: Full time or Part-time Court Security Officer / Bailiff; available at least two days a week with the potential of five days. Position will be filled with either one (1) full time or two (2) part-time employees. Court Security Personnel will be appointed to the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office and report to The Sheriff.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties: Under the direction of the Sheriff and the Judges of the Eighth Judicial Circuit, Court Security Officers (CSO’s) are responsible for ensuring that all spaces within the Calhoun County Courthouse (Including courtrooms, public areas, and private offices) Court parking lots as well as grounds surrounding the Calhoun County Courthouse are secure.

CSO’s are to attend all Court proceedings for the courtroom they are assigned and obey all lawful orders and directions of the judges presiding therein while maintaining security and decorum of the courtroom and Courthouse. CSO’s are subject to policies and procedures of the Sheriff’s Department.

Desirable Abilities and Knowledge: Excellent verbal communication skills; ability to work late evenings on occasion; knowledge of the Illinois court system is helpful but not required. Qualities: Confidentiality, dependability, integrity, professionalism, and a strong work ethic are a necessity.

Waivers: Individuals who already possess a valid certification from the Basic Law Enforcement Course or Basic Correctional Course in Illinois can often receive a waiver for the Court Security Basic Training Academy.

Functions Include:
• Interacting with all Court employees, public officials and the public in a positive, courteous and professional manner at all times and provide informational assistance upon request.
• Assisting with maintaining the custody and control of all jail inmates assigned to the courtroom when needed.
• Responsible for taking individuals into custody when directed to do so by the Judge.
• Responsible for the collection and distribution of Court documents completed by Court personnel.
• Responsible for responding to emergency situations in the Courthouse, parking lots or Courthouse grounds when so notified by a judge, a member of the Court personnel, a member of the public or notification of a sounding duress alarm.
• Conducting a daily pre-Court search of the courtroom for weapons and contraband.
• Assisting with entry screening and other security duties as directed by the Sheriff.
• Assisting with announcing the opening of court and call the court to order on all matters under its direction when needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Sheriff and Judge.

Minimum Qualifications:
1. Must be a State Certified Police Officer or Correctional Officer or Court Security Officer as prescribed by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board. (50 ILCS 7051-12) and/or retired or currently not working full-time with respective agency.
2. U.S. Citizen and resident of the State of Illinois.
3. Must be 21 years of age (No age cap.)
4. Must possess a Valid Driver’s License and FOID card.
5. High School Diploma or GED Certificate
6. Not have any felony or certain misdemeanor convictions from any jurisdiction
7. Must be able to maintain department qualification standards in the use of fi****ms.
8. Must be able to read and interpret reports, posters, police and procedure manuals, releases, court orders, and ID Cards.
9. Must possess and exercise sound judgement in reacting to emergency situations and using physical force necessary to defend oneself and others.

Application Process:
All applicants are to submit a completed application with attached forms along with a cover letter and resume to the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office; 301 S. County Rd., Hardin, IL 62047, or by e-mail to Sheriff Zach Hardin : [email protected].

Applicants are to complete an application, are subject to drug screening, physical fitness evaluation; and must be able to provide a fit for duty waiver from a physician, pass a background investigation, and undergo interview and review by The Sheriff and Judge.

The Calhoun County Sheriff's Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to selecting qualified applicants based on merit, integrity, and dedication to public service.

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09/28/2026

PUBLIC NOTICE : Road Closure

When: September 29th 3026 (9:00AM - 1:00PM)
Where: Hill Top Dr. (0.2 miles North of Batchtown Rd)

The Calhoun County Highway Department will be replacing a culvert; and Hill Top Drive will be closed approximately 0.2 miles north of Batchtown Road on Tuesday, September 29th from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM.

Please plan your routes accordingly.

Thank you.

09/27/2026

Sheriff Zach Hardin and the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office snuck away from the Calhoun County Fair for a little bit on Sunday to get our yearly department photos!

We are honored to serve you, Calhoun County.

God Bless Calhoun County!

09/26/2026

Sheriff Zach Hardin and everyone at the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office (and our families) had an excellent time at the 2026 Calhoun County Fair.

Thank you to everyone who took time out to visit with us, to thank us, and remind us why Calhoun County is the best place in the world to do this job!

See everyone next year!

Calhoun County Sheriff's Office

10/13/2026

10/09/2026

09/30/2026

09/28/2026

09/27/2026

09/26/2026

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