Macomb, IL – Three people are facing multiple felony charges after McDonough County deputies connected a series of recent burglaries and thefts across McDonough and Fulton counties, according to the McDonough County Sheriff’s Office.
According to Sheriff Nicholas Petitgout, several storage units were burglarized over the past week, with deputies first responding to a reported burglary at a rural Adair residence on Monday, January 5 near the Fulton County line. Authorities say tools and a chainsaw were among the items reported stolen.
The following day, Tuesday, January 6, deputies investigated another incident at 8605 East 2250th Street in rural Adair, near the earlier burglary location. Workers at West Central FS reported that two company vehicles had holes drilled into their gas tanks, allowing fuel to be removed.
On Wednesday, January 7, at approximately 8:46 p.m., a McDonough County night patrol deputy stopped a red 2006 Dodge Ram. The vehicle belonged to Dustin B. Frese, 42, of Bryant, Illinois. Authorities say Shona M. Ramey, 31, of Canton, Illinois, was driving, and Jordan D. Coulter, 34, of Ipava, Illinois, was also inside the vehicle.
During the stop, deputies reportedly observed numerous tools and a chainsaw in the truck bed. An investigation followed, and Frese—who allegedly had a failure-to-appear warrant from Fulton County—was arrested and taken to the McDonough County Jail. The vehicle, which deputies say was filled with suspected stolen property, was towed and impounded.
During custodial interviews, authorities say Frese and Coulter allegedly admitted to burglaries in both McDonough and Fulton counties.
Coulter and Frese are each charged with five counts of burglary, three counts of criminal damage to property, and one count of theft over $500. Ramey is charged with driving while license suspended or revoked.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
