Lake County Gazette

On Monday, February 24, the jury trial in People vs. Robert Crimo III will begin with jury selection; opening statements will follow once the jury is seated. The City has been working closely with the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office to understand the process and ensure that community supports are in place. We recognize that for many, the public trial may be an unwelcome reminder of trauma. The purpose of this special eNews is to provide you with facts about the trial process and make you aware of resources that may be helpful to you and your family during this time.

The information in this article will be available throughout the trial as a resource for you at resilienthpil.org and cityhpil.com. Please contact the City Manager’s Office at cityhp@cityhpil.com with any questions.

Message from Mayor Rotering

As the trial of Robert Crimo III begins, our community is once again reminded of the immense pain and trauma caused by the Highland Park shooting. Our hearts remain with the victims, their families, and all those whose lives were forever changed by that devastating day.

The trial, overseen by Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart and his office, represents a critical moment in the pursuit of accountability for this horrific act of violence. This trial brings us closer to the truth and acknowledgment of the harm done.

We remain committed to supporting the victims and ensuring that their voices are heard throughout this process. As we await the trial’s outcome, we reaffirm our dedication to building a safer, more compassionate community, where such a tragedy is never repeated.

We continue to stand in solidarity and remain hopeful that justice will be served.

What to Expect

Everyone impacted by the shooting has experienced that trauma in unique ways. Similarly, each person’s interest in following the trial’s progress will vary. Some may find it helpful to closely follow the trial, while others may choose not to engage with it for their mental health.

Jury selection will begin on Monday, February 24, 2025. Opening statements will commence once the jury is seated. The timing required for jury selection varies depending on several factors.

The trial is public; individuals can attend on a first-come-first-served basis with limited seating available. All attendees must adhere to specific rules applicable to this case.

The proceedings will not be broadcast or livestreamed via Zoom or television. Significant media attention is expected near both Lake County Courthouse and Highland Park despite potential re-traumatization concerns among residents due to increased media presence.

Support Services

For some individuals starting this high-profile case might trigger painful memories related back July Fourth parade mass Shooting incident held last year involving same defendant now facing charges under criminal justice system's scrutiny led prosecutors seeking fair judgement based evidence presented court room setting governed legal protocols ensuring transparent proceedings respecting rights all parties involved including accused represented defense counsel appointed either privately hired state provided depending circumstances financial status determining eligibility public defender assistance required law abiding citizens entitled fair representation regardless nature severity alleged crimes committed against society whole upholding principles democracy rooted equality justice accessible everyone irrespective background socio-economic standing contributing overall welfare nation striving achieve harmonious coexistence diverse communities living peacefully together sharing common 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