14-Year-Old Kidnapped, Abused | Porn-Spending Official Got Sympathy | Woman, 96, Dies After Fire: IL News

On the weekend, we present a week in review of the top stories and headlines from all across Illinois. Here's a roundup of some of the most-read stories across the state. You can also find your local Patch and catch up on those stories by clicking here.

14-Year-Old Kidnapped, Forced Into Sexual Act On The Way To School: Police

Police say the 43-year-old man offered the girl a ride when she was running late for school, then implied he had a knife and sexually abused her.

Porn-Spending School Official Got Sympathy When Questions Surfaced: Records

An HR official suggested the superintendent had become the victim of "cancel culture" after he lamented the public records requests for his spending.

96-Year-Old Found Slumped Wheelchair During Fire Last Month: Report

Firefighters discovered the woman slumped in a wheelchair about three feet from flames in the dining area of her home, according to the report. She died shortly after she was rescued.

Ex-Police Chief Convicted By Federal Jury Of Taking $10K Bribe From Bar Owner

The former chief and a building inspector split a $10,000 bribe from a local bar owner to transfer a liquor license, then tried to cover it up by telling federal agents that the money was for a loan when confronted by federal authorities, according to the criminal complaint.

Bearded Dragon Saved From House Fire

Firefighters made sure the bearded dragon was "sheltered in place" in the basement as crews extinguished the blaze.

Former North Central Coach Jeff Thorne Remembered As Inspiration On And Off Field

Thorne, who became the college's head football coach in 2015, led the team to their first NCAA Division III Football National Championship in 2019 and through record-breaking milestones over six seasons. He died this week after battling cancer.

Would-Be Robber Broke Into High School Through Unlocked Window: Police

Police say they got a call around 1:30 a.m. reporting the incident. After entering via the unlocked window, the man demanded money from a school maintenance worker, police said.

Former Superintendent Defaulted On Repayments To School District

The $25,000 is related to a 2023 repayment agreement between the former superintendent and the district, in which he agreed to pay monthly amounts for terminating his employment before the end of his contract.