Williamson County Sheriffs Office

ILLINOIS SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES SCHOLARSHIPS

The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association announces that it will be awarding over $58,000 in college scholarships throughout the State of Illinois to students wishing to pursue higher education during the 2026-2027 academic year.

The scholarships are to be applied to tuition, books, and fees only. The student must be enrolled full-time at a certified institution of higher learning. Online learning is also acceptable.

Williamson County Sheriff Jeff Diederich will be awarding two scholarships in the amount of $1,000.00 each to Williamson County students.

There will be no restriction on any applicant by reason of race, age, creed, color, s*x or national origin.

The only limitations are as follows:


- Applicants must be permanent Illinois residents

- Students must be enrolled as a full-time student during the 2026-2027 school year (excluding summer session).


Applications are now available at the Williamson County Sheriff's Office or on the ISA Website at:

https://www.ilsheriff.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/2026-2027-ISA-College-Scholarship-Application.pdf

Students must complete the application, answer the essay question, and return all documentation to the Williamson County Sheriff's Office at 404 N. Van Buren Street, Marion, Illinois 62959, by March 13, 2026 (must be postmarked by this date).

For more information, please contact the Williamson County Sheriff's Office, the Illinois Sheriffs Association, high school advising office, or college financial aid office.

# # #

Traffic Alert - Road Blockage - Rt 13

The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office is currently on the scene of a two-vehicle traffic crash on Illinois Route 13, west of Carterville, on the bridge over Crab Orchard Lake.

Illinois Route 13 westbound is currently closed due to roadway blockage in the construction zone and is expected to remain closed for approximately 30 minutes.

Deputies are on scene and working to clear the roadway as quickly and safely as possible. Motorists are asked to avoid the area and use alternate routes.

Thank you for your patience.

# # #

HAZARDOUS ROAD CONDITION

HAZARDOUS ROAD CONDITION
Jordans Fort Road
Use EXTREME CAUTION on Jordans Fort Road just North of Corinth Road due to
a water tower leak. Roads have been treated but with current weather, road
conditions could worsen quickly.
Effective immediately, Saturday, January 31, 2026.
Motorists are encouraged to seek alternate routes.
# # #

Drug House Closed - 7 Arrested

Williamson County, Illinois – On January 29, 2026, at 0915 hours, Williamson County Sheriff’s Office Deputies executed a court-authorized search warrant in the 200 block of Sanders Avenue in Whiteash, Illinois.

This operation was the result of ongoing intelligence indicating that this location and individuals associated with it had resumed the sale of illegal narcotics after previously being shut down by law enforcement. Over the course of several years, the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office has made numerous arrests connected to this residence and related suspects.

On June 12, 2024, Deputies previously executed a search warrant at this same location. That investigation resulted in the consolidation of multiple outstanding drug and weapons cases, ultimately leading to the conviction of Joseph E. Wallace, who was sentenced to three years in the Illinois Department of Corrections. Wallace was subsequently paroled by the Illinois Department of Corrections after serving approximately 6 1/2 months.

Following Wallace’s release on parole, the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office became aware that illegal narcotics sales activity had resurfaced at this location.

On January 28, 2026, Deputies interdicted illegal narcotics that had just been purchased from the residence, resulting in the arrest of the buyer and further confirming continued criminal activity.

On January 29, 2026, Deputies returned to the residence to execute the search warrant. Upon arrival, Deputies made entry into a house trailer and a camper located on the property. As a result, three individuals were arrested and Deputies recovered Methamphetamine, Controlled Substance, Ammunition, and Drug Paraphernalia.

In a related operation, Williamson County Sheriff’s Office Deputies conducted a traffic stop in Marion, Illinois, which resulted in the arrest of two additional individuals and the recovery of Methamphetamine and Controlled Substance.

As a result of this investigation, the following individuals were arrested and cited:

Joseph E. Wallace

Methamphetamine Conspiracy

Class X Felony

Delivery of Methamphetamine

Class 2 Felony

Possession of Weapon or Ammunition by Felon or Persons in Custody of DOC

Class 2 Felony

Possession of a Controlled Substance

Class 4 Felony

Possession of Ammunition Without FOID

Class A Misdemeanor

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Class A Misdemeanor

⸻

Terri Ditterline

Possession of Methamphetamine

Class 3 Felony

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Class A Misdemeanor

⸻

Lance Baldwin

Possession of Methamphetamine

Class 3 Felony

⸻

Jerri Stritzel

Possession of a Controlled Substance

Class 4 Felony

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Class A Misdemeanor

⸻

Kierston C. Tolbert

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Class A Misdemeanor

⸻

Scott D. Kizior

Possession of Methamphetamine

Class 3 Felony

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Class A Misdemeanor

⸻

Andrea L. Ray

Possession of Methamphetamine

Class 3 Felony

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Class A Misdemeanor

⸻

The Illinois Department of Corrections has issued a warrant revoking the parole of Joseph E Wallace.

“This case highlights our continued commitment to holding repeat offenders accountable and shutting down locations that persist in trafficking illegal drugs into our communities. When criminal activity resurfaces, we will respond decisively and take action to protect the residents of Williamson County,” said Sheriff Jeff Diederich.

All individuals were transported to and remanded into the custody of the Williamson County Jail pending further court proceedings.

If you have any information concerning this or any other investigation, please contact the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office at 618.997.6541 or “Submit A Tip” on the Williamson County Sheriff’s App.

The Williamson County Sheriff’s App is a great way to keep informed and can be downloaded at the App Store (Apple/Iphone) or on Google Play (Android).

Your information is important, and those who “Submit a Tip” by using the Sheriff’s App may choose to remain anonymous.

# # #

Warrant Wednesday - January 28, 2026

If you have any information concerning this or any other investigation, please contact the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office at 618.997.6541 or “Submit A Tip” on the Williamson County Sheriff’s App.

The Williamson County Sheriff’s App is a great way to keep informed and can be downloaded at the App Store (Apple/Iphone) or on Google Play (Android).

Your information is important, and those who “Submit a Tip” by using the Sheriff’s App may choose to remain anonymous.

# # #

Winter Storm Response Update

The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office was out in full force overnight and continues to respond today as this severe winter weather moves through our area.

Overnight, road conditions rapidly deteriorated due to snow and ice accumulation. Since 5:00am this morning, deputies have assisted more than 80 motorists who have slid off the roadway, became stranded, or needed help navigating hazardous conditions.

This inclement weather can be extremely treacherous, especially with dangerously cold temperatures, and motorists can quickly find themselves in need of assistance. We strongly encourage everyone to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel, and check on friends, family, and neighbors when it is safe to do so.

We are proud to see so many examples of neighbors helping neighbors during this storm.

Unfortunately, deputies have also made arrests involving individuals attempting to take advantage of these conditions by committing vehicle burglaries. Extra patrols remain in place to protect our community.

Our first priority is the safety of our residents and our personnel. Deputies will continue working around the clock alongside our local partners to assist those in need and keep Williamson County as safe as possible.

Please stay safe, stay warm, and continue to look out for one another.

Aggravated Battery | Infant Abuse Investigation

Williamson County, Illinois – On January 23, 2026, at 1818 hours, the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by the Cambria Police Department requesting assistance in the investigation of a battery involving a two-month-old juvenile.

Williamson County Sheriff’s Office investigators and Cambria Police Officers located the child at a local hospital, where the infant was receiving medical treatment.

During the investigation, video evidence was recovered, which revealed the incident occurred at 0343 hours and had not been immediately reported.

After reviewing the video evidence and conducting witness interviews, investigators identified the suspect as Dalton E. Ward. Ward was located in the 600 block of South Elm Street in Cambria and taken into custody without incident.

Video evidence shows Ward repeatedly thrusting the child to the ground from an elevated position, then lying next to the child on the ground, restricting the child’s airway with his hand and/or arm.

Dalton E. Ward was issued the following citations:

Aggravated Domestic Battery

Class 2 Felony

Aggravated Battery

Class 3 Felony


Ward was transported to and remanded into the custody of the Williamson County Jail.

This matter has been forwarded to the Williamson County States Attorney’s Office for further review and additional charges are anticipated.

If you have any information concerning this or any other investigation, please contact the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office at 618.997.6541 or “Submit A Tip” on the Williamson County Sheriff’s App.

The Williamson County Sheriff’s App is a great way to keep informed and can be downloaded at the App Store (Apple/Iphone) or on Google Play (Android).

Your information is important, and those who “Submit a Tip” by using the Sheriff’s App may choose to remain anonymous.

# # #

WINTER STORM PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT Williamson County Sheriff’s Office

>

The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office is closely monitoring a significant winter storm system expected to arrive in our area tomorrow morning and continue impacting the region throughout the weekend and likely into next week.

In preparation for this potentially historic winter weather event, the Sheriff’s Office has taken extraordinary steps to ensure we are ready to serve our community. These preparations include significantly elevating manpower levels, mobilizing additional equipment, and preparing deputies to work extended hours to assist residents during severe conditions.

The Sheriff’s Office is in direct and ongoing communication and coordination with our law enforcement partners, EMS, Fire Departments, Emergency Management Agency, Illinois Department of Transportation, Williamson County Highway Department, utility providers, and fellow first responders to ensure a unified and effective response focused on the safety of our community.

We anticipate significant snowfall, drifting, reduced visibility, and dangerously cold temperatures, including single-digit temperatures and below-freezing wind chills. While we are as prepared as possible to continue providing emergency services, community cooperation remains critical.

How you can help:

• Once conditions deteriorate, avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Reducing traffic helps prevent crashes and allows first responders to prioritize medical, fire, and law-enforcement emergencies.

• Use extreme caution if you must drive, especially in icy conditions or reduced visibility.

• Check on neighbors, particularly the elderly, those with medical needs, or anyone without reliable heat.

• Exercise caution when using alternative heating sources, including fireplaces, wood burners, and space heaters.

To maintain coverage and reduce response times, the Sheriff’s Office has restructured patrol zones, strategically positioning deputies throughout Williamson County while prioritizing officer and public safety.

Please understand that during extreme weather, response times may be impacted by road conditions and visibility. The safety of our residents and our personnel remains our top priority.

The men and women of the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office stand ready and committed to serving our community throughout this inclement weather. We appreciate your patience, cooperation, and vigilance as we work together to get through this storm safely.

Stay safe, stay informed, and look out for one another.

Sheriff Jeff Diederich

Warrant Arrest | One Taken Into Custody Following Disturbance

Williamson County, Illinois – On January 19, 2026, Williamson County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to a disturbance in the 200 block of Sanders Avenue in Whiteash.

While en route, dispatch advised that one of the involved parties, Larry D. Sanders, had an active warrant for his arrest out of Williamson County.

Sanders was the subject of the January 14, 2026, Williamson County Sheriff’s Office “Warrant Wednesday”.

Deputies approached the residence and observed Sanders standing in the front yard. As Deputies approached, Sanders fled on foot and entered the home through the rear entrance. Deputies were advised that Sanders was concealing himself inside a closet and consent was granted by the resident to enter the home.

Deputies entered the residence and located Sanders hiding inside a closet in a bedroom. Sanders was taken into custody without further incident.

Larry D. Sanders was issued the following citations:

Obstructing Justice

Class 4 Felony

Resisting Arrest

Class A Misdemeanor

Larry D. Sanders was transported to and remanded into the custody of the Williamson County Jail.

If you have any information concerning this or any other investigation, please contact the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office at 618.997.6541 or “Submit A Tip” on the Williamson County Sheriff’s App.

The Williamson County Sheriff’s App is a great way to keep informed and can be downloaded at the App Store (Apple/Iphone) or on Google Play (Android).

Your information is important, and those who “Submit a Tip” by using the Sheriff’s App may choose to remain anonymous.

# # #

Methamphetamine | Two Arrested Following Traffic Stop

Williamson County, Illinois – On January 14, 2026, at 0218 hours, Williamson County Sheriff’s Office Deputies conducted a traffic stop after observing a vehicle disobey a stop sign at the intersection of Polk and 14th Streets in Herrin.

The driver, identified as Amber N. Mize was discovered to have a revoked drivers license. Mize was taken into custody without incident. A passenger, Haley D. Redmon, was also present in the vehicle.

Deputies observed drug paraphernalia in the vehicle and a subsequent probable cause search was conducted.

As a result of the search, Deputies recovered Methamphetamine, Controlled Substance, Drug Paraphernalia, and Cannabis.

Methamphetamine was later recovered from Redmon’s person upon arrival at the Williamson County Jail.

Amber N. Mize was issued the following citations:

Possession of Methamphetamine

Class 1 Felony

Possession of a Controlled Substance

Class 4 Felony

Driving While License Revoked

Class A Misdemeanor

No Valid Driver’s License

Class A Misdemeanor

Possession of Cannabis by Driver

Class A Misdemeanor

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Class A Misdemeanor

Disobeying a Stop Sign

Petty Offense


Haley D. Redmon was issued the following citations:

Possession of Methamphetamine

Class 1 Felony

Possession of a Controlled Substance

Class 4 Felony

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Class A Misdemeanor


Amber N. Mize and Haley D. Redmon were transported to and released into the custody of the Williamson County Jail.

If you have any information concerning this or any other investigation, please contact the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office at 618.997.6541 or “Submit A Tip” on the Williamson County Sheriff’s App.

The Williamson County Sheriff’s App is a great way to keep informed and can be downloaded at the App Store (Apple/Iphone) or on Google Play (Android).

Your information is important, and those who “Submit a Tip” by using the Sheriff’s App may choose to remain anonymous.

# # #