WSIU News Morning Update for October 1, 2024 in Carbondale, IL

In Illinois, you do not need an ID to vote, but it can be helpful. If asked for ID, remind poll workers that it's not a requirement. They may ask about your signature, and a provisional ballot can be used if there’s a challenge. New legislation has been proposed to make it a felony to register non-citizens to vote, although there is no proof of this issue in Illinois. Currently, voter fraud is already a serious offense. In other news, there are concerns regarding the hiring practices of the Sangamon County Sheriff's Office following a tragedy involving a former deputy facing felony charges. These incidents raise important questions about accountability and safety in law enforcement hiring.

Recent investigations by the CNI have uncovered serious concerns within the sheriff's department, revealing that at least two deputies have DUI charges on their records. This raises questions about their conduct and the overall integrity of the department. Additionally, there are ongoing investigations related to the death of Sonya Massey, with the US Department of Justice looking into both her case and the actions of the sheriff's department. These developments highlight a troubling pattern that could point to systemic issues within law enforcement, prompting calls for accountability and reform to ensure justice is served for affected families and the community.