Springfield

Lawsuit Alleges Springfield Officer’s Brutal Arrest Highlights City’s Ongoing Use-of-Force Failures

by

Springfield, Ore. — A lawsuit filed by a local woman alleges that a police officer used excessive force during a traffic stop, raising concerns about the Springfield Police Department’s accountability following a previous settlement regarding use-of-force incidents. Megan Hanks claims in her lawsuit that Officer Joseph Burke forcefully removed her from her vehicle during a traffic stop on July 1, 2022. She alleges that Burke slammed her head and body against her car multiple times, a response she argues was excessive for what she describes as a minor offense. Hanks was arrested on suspicion of … Read more

New Sports Park Opens in Springfield, Posing a Hefty Financial Dilemma for Local Brewery Amidst Illinois Liquor Law Constraints

by

Springfield, Illinois – A new sports park on the horizon in Springfield could potentially cause a significant economic impact on a local brewery due to restrictive state liquor laws. Brent Schwoerer, the owner of Engrained Brewery, faces a challenging decision that might force him to halt beer deliveries to multiple distribution partners in Sangamon County, a move that could cost his business between $50,000 and $70,000 annually. Schwoerer, navigating the complexities of being a small business owner in the competitive brewery industry, emphasizes the desire for a more supportive environment for business growth in Illinois. … Read more

Springfield Resident Exposes Jury Duty Scam, Offers Vital Tips to Safeguard Others

by

Springfield, MO – A Springfield woman is speaking out about her recent encounter with a sophisticated scam involving jury duty, hoping her story will serve as a warning to others. The scam, which manipulates victims by impersonating court officials, nearly duped her into surrendering hundreds of dollars. The lady, who wishes to remain unnamed, recounted received an alarming phone call from someone claiming to be a police officer. The caller told her she had failed to show up for jury duty and that a warrant for her arrest had been issued. To resolve the matter, … Read more

Springfield Entrepreneur Wins $15 Million from Johnson & Johnson in Landmark Asbestos Cancer Case

by

Springfield, Massachusetts — Evan Plotkin, a local real estate entrepreneur from Springfield, has secured a $15 million verdict from a Connecticut jury which found that Johnson and Johnson’s baby powder, alleged to contain asbestos, was responsible for his mesothelioma, a form of lung cancer. Plotkin, who has been battling the disease for the last five years, experienced what is likely his largest court victory despite facing a terminal prognosis. The lawsuit centered around the claim that Johnson and Johnson knew their talcum powder contained asbestos and failed to inform the public about the risk. According … Read more