Energy, IL – In a case wrapped in irony, a man has been accused of stealing what the town of Energy is named after—fuel. This unique incident has led to an extensive investigation involving aerial surveillance and the use of ATVs by the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Energy Police Department.
According to police reports the investigation was sparked on February 19, 2024, when the Energy Police Department alerted the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office to a theft at their maintenance garage. The theft was one of several similar incidents that occurred over the month, including a notable event on February 6, where a white male was captured on camera stealing gasoline from the Village of Energy’s gas tank using a side-by-side UTV.
Further adding to the series of thefts, on February 19, the same individual reportedly attempted to steal gasoline again, leading to a chase that ended when the suspect escaped after driving through a barbed wire fence. This pursuit was not isolated; another chase ensued on February 24 in Herrin, where police identified the suspect’s UTV, linking it to the Energy thefts.
Through diligent investigative work, aerial surveillance, and ground efforts by ATV patrol units, authorities were able to locate the suspect, Jordan L. Lewis of Creal Springs, Illinois, at a residence in rural Creal Springs. Upon being confronted, Lewis admitted to his involvement in the thefts and subsequent pursuits.A search warrant led to the discovery of stolen property, including the UTV used in the crimes, a sawed-off shotgun, a new Honda dirt bike, and a Kawasaki ATV. Lewis faces multiple charges, ranging from possession of stolen property to unlawful use of a weapon.
Sheriff Diederich highlighted the collaborative efforts of law enforcement across Williamson County in bringing the suspect to justice, underscoring the importance of inter-departmental cooperation in solving crimes. The ongoing investigation may lead to additional suspects and charges.
The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging anyone with further information to contact them directly or anonymously submit a tip through their mobile app, emphasizing the value of community assistance in law enforcement efforts.
