Former Wabash Co. deputy faces multiple charges following death of K9 officer

WABASH CO., Ill. (WFIE) – Officials with the Wabash County Sheriff's Office say charges will be filed against a former deputy after K9 Officer Kiki was found dead in July.

As we have already reportedK9 Kiki was found dead on July 14th.

WCSO requested that the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office conduct an independent investigation into Kiki's death to avoid any bias.

Deputy Cheadle, Kiki's handler, has been placed on administrative leave pending the investigation.

Information obtained during the investigation led the Wabash County District Attorney's Office to contact the Illinois State Attorney General's Office on July 28.

According to a news release, Cheadle resigned from his position as deputy sheriff on Aug. 8 while the review was ongoing.

The appellate prosecutor reviewed the report and has now filed formal charges in this case.

The following charges are brought against Cheadle:

• 4 counts of official misconduct (Class 3 felony)
• 1 count of Theft/Deceit/>$500
• 1 count of Animal Cruelty (Class A Misdemeanor)
• 2 counts of pet ownership duties (Class B misdemeanor)

Copyright 2024 WFIE. All rights reserved.