The arrest of a Knox County Board member for domestic battery after a physical altercation with his wife on Sunday is under investigation, with charging decisions pending, according to the state’s attorney.
County Board member Joshua E. Kramer, 44, of Galesburg, was booked in the Knox County jail on Sunday. He later was released by court order. His wife, also arrested and released Sunday, obtained an emergency order of protection, with the court noting bruising on her face and body from the altercation.
A Republican board member for Knox County Board, District 4, since 2022, Kramer also has served as an investigator for the Monmouth Police Department since 2017. When asked if he could comment on Kramer’s status with the Monmouth Police Department, Chief Joe Switzer said he “generally cannot comment on personnel matters.” Switzer also said he could not confirm Kramer’s current employment status.
No criminal charges had been filed as of early Wednesday afternoon, according to online court records.
Knox County State’s Attorney Ashley Worby tells WGIL, “This is still an active investigation at this point in relation to both Joshua Kramer and his spouse. No charging decisions have been made at this time and we are following all protocols we would ordinarily follow in relation to these types of alleged criminal matters.”
Jared Hawkinson, Knox County Board chairman, said, “The only thing I can say is that it’s unfortunate for all parties involved. Other than that, I cannot comment, and I refer everything to the state’s attorney’s office.”
