Wife of Illinois Judge Arrested for Murder – NBC Chicago

The wife of an Illinois Second Judicial Circuit Court judge who was fatally shot outside his home last week has been arrested and charged with murder, according to Illinois State Police.

Megan S. Valentine of Albion State, 44, has been charged with first-degree murder in the killing of Judge Michael J. Valentine, officials said.

According to authorities, Valentine is also charged with aggravated assault with a firearm, aggravated discharge of a firearm and aggravated domestic violence.

Police said officers with the Edwards County Sheriff's Office responded to a call just before 12:15 a.m. Tuesday at a residence in the 1100 block of County Road in Albion.

Upon arrival, an ECSO officer discovered Michael Valentine lying lifeless outside the residence and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Megan Valentine was arrested at the scene and formally charged with her husband's murder on Thursday, November 7th. Valentine is currently being held in the White County Jail.

The Illinois Second Judicial Circuit Court issued the following statement:

“On behalf of all judges of the Second Circuit, we are deeply shocked
We are saddened by the tragic death of our colleague and friend, a resident of Edwards County
Judge Michael J. Valentine.

Judge Valentine was elected district judge in 2016 and then transferred to the district court
Second Circuit elector in 2022. Previously he was Edwards County State
As an attorney, he brought his legal experience and commitment to public service.

Judge Valentine was a respected jurist who was determined to pursue justice
and his compassion and behavior earned him people's trust and respect
who appeared before him. We will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you
his family during this difficult time.“

No further information was available.