DNA evidence links Illinois Man already in Jail to October Bar and Grill Robbery

GRUNDY COUNTY, IL – A Riverton man has been arrested in connection with an October robbery of a local Bar and Grill.

According to the Grundy County Sheriff Ken Briley, Jonathon P. Ballard, 34, of Riverton, IL, was arrested and is being held on a $20,000 bond in connection with a robbery at EJ Karz Bar & Grill.  It comes after a prolonged investigation into the October 24, 2022, incident where video gaming machines were accessed and a significant amount of cash was stolen. 

Evidence collected at the scene led to the identification of Ballard through DNA analysis. The case was presented to the Grundy County Circuit Court Grand Jury, resulting in an arrest warrant. 

Ballard is currently now in custody in Sangamon County facing similar charges.