An Illinois State Trooper has been charged in Marion County Court with felony aggravated domestic battery and misdemeanor domestic battery in connection with the alleged strangulation of a 12-year-old boy.
John Faulkner of Patoka was arrested on Friday following an investigation by the Illinois Division of Internal Investigation. State Police say Faulkner has been relieved of his police duties and equipment and the investigation is continuing.
During a bond hearing Monday afternoon, State’s Attorney Timothy Hudspeth said Faulkner is accused of strangling by wrapping his arm around the neck of a minor household member causing him in the words of the alleged victim ‘fall asleep’. The juvenile said he was then drug down the hall of the residence. The incident reportedly occurred on August 13th during a disagreement between the two. Hudspeth said after the hearing the juvenile did not require any hospital treatment.
The investigation began on Friday after the juvenile received an order of protection against Faulkner. State Police say they were notified by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office of the aggravated domestic battery allegations when they served the order. Faulkner’s arrest was made after the initial evidence was gathered on Friday. He was taken to the Marion County Jail where he remained until Monday’s first court appearance via Zoom.
Judge Mark Stedelin set the bond at $10,000 at the recommendation of the State’s Attorney. Faulkner later posted a $1,000 bond and was released from custody. As part of the release on bond, he was ordered to follow the order of protection issued against him. It was noted during the bond hearing that Faulkner had no history of violence, had strong ties to the community, and had held his job for nearly two decades.
Faulkner indicated he had hired his own attorney. A first appearance with counsel was set for September 6th at nine am.
