PEORIA, Ill. — Peoria County Sheriff’s Deputy Matthew Hawkins has been released on bail following his Wednesday arrest.
News partner 25 News reports that officials with the Peoria County Circuit Clerk’s Office said Hawkins is facing multiple charges for allegedly stealing alcohol from the Kroger on N. Lindbergh Dr. earlier this month.
Hawkins was arrested on charges of retail theft, burglary to a commercial business (Class 2 felony) and official misconduct (Class 3 felony).
Peoria County Sheriff Brian Asbell told 25 News that he will reserve judgement, but the case is an “embarrassment to the Sheriff’s Office in Peoria County and the profession in general.”
Asbell said he asked Illinois State Police to investigate, but at the same time his department is conducting an investigation of their own.
According to Asbell, the deputy is on unpaid leave.
Hawkins is due back in court Sept. 24 at 9:30 a.m.
