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Former Cop Arrested on Sex Charges
A Galesburg man and retired cop has been arrested on felony sex charges.

According to the Illinois State Police, 76-year-old Jerry Friend was arrested by special agents around 12:30 Wednesday afternoon. He faces three Class-Two felony counts of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse.

Authorities allege Friend fondled a family member under the age of 18 in the summer of 2008. They say he made similar improper contact with that same victim in July 2010, while also allegedly molesting another minor that same month.

A special prosecutor has been assigned to the case because of the states attorney's past relationship with Friend. Friend ran unsuccessfully for Knox County Sheriff in the 2008 Primary.

Bill Butts was announced as Friend's attorney inside Knox County Circuit Court Thursday. Judge Dwayne Morrison allowed bond to remain set at $100,000, but a bond reduction hearing is scheduled for next Wednesday.

If convicted, each charge of aggravated criminal sexual abuse carries a term of 3 to 7 years in prison.
01 27 12 by Newsroom
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