The number of lawsuits filed against county officials in northern Illinois in response to intentional prolonged daily jail lockdowns is growing by the day.
Winnebago County State's Attorney's chief of staff and Civil Bureau, Dave Kurlinkus, said Monday that four lawsuits had been served. Winnebago County Circuit Clerk Tom Klein said Tuesday that the number had grown to 15 lawsuits and that he is expecting to see more.
The Rockford Register Star reports that the lawsuits allege "excessive and unwarranted lockdowns," and several are seeking $15,000 in damages.
Winnebago County Chief Deputy Mark Karner says the office hasn't been served with all the lawsuits so it's difficult to comment. But he says the number of lockdowns is linked with staff shortages.