PEORIA, Ill. — Peoria County Sheriff Brian Asbell relieved two deputies Tuesday of their duties.
33-year-old Joshua Carr was fired for an alleged Sept. 27 incident at Tavern on Prospect, in which Carr was accused of stealing a gift bag belonging to someone else.
Asbell, in a letter to Carr, said Carr during an interrogation admitted he also drove drunk the night of the incident.
47-year-old Matthew Hawkins was also let go because of an alleged Aug. 18 incident.
Hawkins is said to have parked a sheriff’s car in the fire lane of the N. Lindbergh Kroger, while also possessing alcoholic beverages.
He was subsequently arrested on multiple charges, including retail theft.
Hawkins had served on the force for 24 years.
Asbell issued the following statement about the incident:
These are both disappointing situations that can have a negative impact on the public’s confidence, not just with the Sheriff’s Office but with the entire profession. However, both of these issues were dealt with in a expeditious manner once complaints were filed and incidents were properly investigated. I, along with the members of the Sheriff’s Office remain committed to our mission in upholding the law, even when it deals with our own employees. I hope the public see’s we not only advocate accountability, we practice it and understand public trust is a foundation of this agency and profession.
