Lake County Gazette

Lake County State’s Attorney candidate Mary Cole has raised concerns about her opponent, State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart, specifically relating to the controversial release of Darion R. Flowers, a Waukegan resident facing drug-related felony charges. This event took place shortly after a successful argument by prosecutors to have him detained.

“Everyone in Lake County should take a moment to read this attached story to better understand my concerns about our current state’s attorney, Eric Rinehart,” Cole said on Facebook.

“The idea someone can make a phone call to ‘the boss’ to get someone out of jail deeply concerns me - it should concern you as well.”

“This doesn’t smell right and I have started looking into it. But you - as residents and voters in Lake County - should ask yourself: who made the phone call to Rinehart?”

Flowers, charged with manufacturing ecstasy and possession of methamphetamine, appeared before Judge Theodore Potkonjak, who initially granted the prosecution’s request for detention. However, Rinehart’s office later ordered Flowers’ release, leading to a denial of the release request by Potkonjak. The controversy has prompted Cole to question the circumstances surrounding Flowers’ release, emphasizing concerns about the power dynamics involved. Cole, currently a candidate for the position, urged residents to ask who made the phone call to Rinehart that resulted in Flowers’ release.

Rinehart defended the release, citing “important information” about Flowers’ need to be home with a family member.

“The next day, we asked the judge to consider the new information in light of the urgent situation at home and law enforcement’s input. Despite the possibility of home confinement for a non-violent offense, the judge was unmoved,” Rinehart said, according to the Lake McHenry Scanner.

Despite the controversy, he emphasized the transparency of the system under the SAFE-T Act, expressing a commitment to consider relevant information with compassion.

“We welcome a system where judges are openly deciding on detention or non-detention based on information that comes from police, victims, family, schools, therapists, clergy, or the community,” Rinehart said, according to the Lake McHenry Scanner.

Flowers is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on Dec. 14.

“In this case, we will continue to consult with law enforcement on potential resolutions while the defendant remains detained. We will also consider his home situation, along with any other information presented to us, with compassion,” Rinehart said, according to the Lake McHenry Scanner.

SAFE-T Act has been a focal point of critique for Rinehart with Cole and Lake County Republicans questioning its effectiveness. Cole's campaign promises a safer and more secure future juxtaposed with policies criticized during Rinehart's tenure.

As the election looms, Keith Brin, Chairman of the Lake County Republican Party, criticized Rinehart for placing political agendas ahead of his role responsibilities. Brin showed apprehension towards Rinehart's support for the controversial SAFE-T Act and his refusal to collaborate with state’s attorneys from different political orientations. As per a report in the Lake County Gazette, the Lake County Republicans have issued a press statement advising voters against re-electing Rinehart. They cited his far-left agenda and perceived misalignment with the concerns of everyday Illinoisans as reasons. The controversy surrounding Flowers' release adds fuel to this political contention as elections approach.