Former Tolono park district official accused of governmental property theft makes first court appearance

TOLONO, Ill. (WCIA) — A former park district official charged with multiple felonies had his first day in court.

Randall Grace, the Tolono Park District director from 2014-2021, made his first court appearance Monday according to court records. The Attorney General’s office confirmed with WCIA last month Grace is being charged with with four counts of theft of governmental property, four counts of official misconduct and one count of forgery.

Former Tolono Park District director charged with several felonies related to mishandling money

Raoul alleges from January 2015 to November 2021 about multiple incidents when Grace used or authorized the use of the Tolono Park District credit card, bank accounts and Menards rebate coupons to make personal purchases of items and services intended for private use. The attorney general said Grace knew the purchases were not valid expenses for the park district.

“Anyone who abuses their position of authority for their own financial gain must be held accountable,” Raoul said. “I would like to thank the Illinois State Police for their assistance in investigating this case. My office will continue to collaborate with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to investigate financial crimes and hold perpetrators accountable.”

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Illinois State Police Director Brenden Kelly said the Special Investigations Unit identified alleged patterns of abuse and the mishandling of funds through interviews and reviews of receipts.

“The public must be able to trust that those who work in public service will use our tax dollars as intended.” Kelly said. “ISP will continue to work with the Attorney General’s Office to root out theft and misconduct.”

Grace’s next day in court is April 3. His attorney requested a preliminary hearing.

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