The Illinois Attorney General’s Office will handle the prosecution review involving Wayne County Board member, 45-year-old Steven K. Manning of Wayne City, following his arrest by Illinois Conservation Police on Saturday, October 10th.
Conservation Police issued Manning a dozen citations following an investigation into the alleged unlawful taking of deer. The citations include allegations of hunting with a firearm during archery season, using a silencer and spotlighting deer.
The case is being referred outside Wayne County because of conflicts involving the local State’s Attorney’s Office. Wayne County State’s Attorney Kyle Ellis serves as legal counsel for the county, while Manning is a member of the County Board. The county’s official website lists Manning as a District 4 board member and a member of the Finance Committee.
The Illinois Appellate Prosecutor’s Office is also not expected to handle the matter because Wayne County contracts with that office for other cases. As a result, attorneys with the Illinois Attorney General’s Office will review the investigative reports and determine which charges, if any, will be formally filed and prosecuted.
Information currently appearing in public court records primarily reflects citations issued by Conservation Police. Those citations do not necessarily represent the final charges that may be pursued.
According to information provided in the case, Conservation Police are seeking felony consideration. Whether any allegation ultimately results in a felony charge will be determined following review by the Attorney General’s Office.
Manning was released Tuesday from the Wayne County Jail pending additional court proceedings.