A grand jury in McHenry County is investigating claims of corruption at the Algonquin Township Road District that go back nearly 10 years, the Northwest Herald newspaper reports.
Documents obtained by the newspaper as well as sources indicate the grand jury is looking into misconduct allegations against Bob Miller, former highway commissioner.
Although grand jury reports are secret, the Northwest Herald reports that a state official and his lawyer are asking questions of attorney Thomas Gooch, who is representing Miller.
The newspaper reports that in an Oct. 30 court document, Highway Commissioner Andrew Gasser accuses Miller of infractions such as “giving of government property to political allies” and using township funds for personal use, including the purchase of Disneyland tickets for himself and his wife.
Gasser is also accusing Miller of “rigging bids,” according to the Northwest Herald.
According to the report, neither side’s attorneys are commenting on the case. When asked about a pending lawsuit and the grand jury progress, Gasser's lawyer, Robert Hanlon, told reporters to “go pound sand," the Northwest Herald reports.
Algonquin Township Supervisor Charles Lutzow also declined to comment, as did Township Clerk Karen Lukasik, according to the newspaper.
The newspaper reports that subpoenas from McHenry County State Attorney Patrick Kenneally and other documents reveal some details of how and why a grand jury investigation is being put together. Officials anticipate more details over time as the legal process continues.
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