A string of burglaries and thefts during July has raised alarm at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. The Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the incidents.
The Illinois Department of Agriculture alerted authorities to multiple break-ins at "Building 29," a structure once belonging to the Illinois Department of Corrections. Despite efforts to secure the building, thefts persisted, prompting a collaborative investigation between the Sheriff’s Office and Agriculture Department security.
On July 26, 2023, around 2:30 AM, deputies responded to another break-in at Building 29. Martin D. Atwood, 59, was apprehended at the scene and charged with Burglary and Possession of Burglary Tools.
Subsequent investigations identified two more suspects linked to the fairgrounds burglaries. On August 10, 2023, arrest warrants were issued for David W. McCormick, 35, and Todd W. Tonelle, 58. Both face charges of Burglary and Theft but remain at large.
Atwood was on bond for a burglary case and awaiting trial for Methamphetamine-related charges. Similarly, McCormick and Tonelle were out on bond for Methamphetamine possession and have prior records spanning theft, narcotics, and assault.
Law enforcement is seeking public assistance in locating McCormick and Tonelle. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office at (217) 753-6666 or Crime Stoppers of Sangamon & Menard Counties at (217) 788-8427 with any information.