SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Internal Investigation (DII) announced today the arrest of Trooper James T. Dierkes, 29 years old, of Greenville, on Friday on one count each of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse (Class 2) and Criminal Sexual Assault (Class 1).
On Dec. 3, 2019, ISP DII received a request for assistance from the Vandalia City Police department, regarding allegations of criminal sexual assault made against Dierkes. The reported incidents occurred in 2016 during Dierkes’ employment at the Vandalia Community High School, prior to his employment with the ISP.
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ISP Agents conducted a thorough investigation into allegations made by a victim who stated that she and Dierkes had inappropriate sexual contact on multiple occasions during his employment at the Vandalia Community High School located at 1109 N 8th Street in Vandalia, Ill. The investigation then led to another victim who alleged she also had inappropriate sexual contact with Dierkes on multiple occasions.
On Dec. 6, 2019, ISP DII Agents took Dierkes into custody, and he was immediately relieved of duty. He is being held at the Fayette County Jail pending charges. Fayette County State’s Attorney, Joshua C. Morrison, formally charged Dierkes: on one count each of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse (Class 2) and Criminal Sexual Assault (Class 1). His bond amount is set at $1,000,000.
“Illinois State Police Special Agents treated the victim’s allegations as credible and within hours of disclosure initiated an investigation leading to these charges,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “ISP agents are fiercely protective of brave crime victims and fiercely protective of the integrity of the Illinois State Police so we urge any victims to come forward.”
The ISP conducts lengthy, rigorous employment background checks during the application process. Dierkes’ extensive background investigation included his employment at Vandalia Community High School and showed no evidence of criminal misconduct or activity at the time of his application.
Dierkes has been employed with the ISP since June of 2018. Anyone wishing to provide additional information is encouraged to call the ISP at (217-622-0924).
The public is reminded that all subjects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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