Lake County Gazette

Members of the Lake County Sheriff's Office Special Investigations Group arrested two individuals on drug possession charges following a traffic stop at approximately 6:28 p.m. on January 8. The incident occurred near I-94 and Route 22 close to Lincolnshire.

According to a Lake County Sheriff's Office news release, Deputy Dwight Arrowood, a K9 handler, and his K9 partner, Duke, conducted a "free-air sniff" around the vehicle's exterior. Duke alerted to the presence of narcotics, leading to a search that uncovered approximately 578.5 grams of powder cocaine.

"This case demonstrates the effectiveness of our specialized teams, including our K9 Unit, in intercepting dangerous drugs before they reach our communities," Sheriff John Idleburg said. "I commend the collaborative efforts of our deputies and our Special Investigations Group for their dedication to keeping Lake County safe. Drug traffickers pose a serious threat, and we will continue to aggressively pursue those who bring these substances into our community."

The driver was identified as Melissa M. Coquillard, 33, from Hampshire, Illinois, while the passenger was Martin Gonzalez, 36, from South Elgin, Illinois. Both were transported to the Lake County Jail.

The Lake County State's Attorney's Office approved charges of unlawful possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver (Class X felony) and unlawful possession of a controlled substance (Class 1 felony). Additionally, Coquillard faces a speeding charge. Petitions were filed to detain both suspects in custody while awaiting trial.

The news release said that all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.