Illinois Judge Michael J. Valentine of Albion shot dead in front of home, wife Megan S. Valentine charged with murder

ALBION, Ill. (WLS) — A southern Illinois judge was shot and killed outside his home in the middle of the day, according to Illinois State Police.

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The shooting occurred around 12:14 p.m. in the 1100 block of County Road 600 in Albion, Illinois.

When police arrived, they found the body of Illinois Second Judicial Court Judge Michael J. Valentine outside his home.

That same day, his wife, 44-year-old Megan S. Valentine, was taken into custody by the Edwards County Sheriff's Office.

Illinois State Police took over the investigation at the request of the sheriff's office.

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On Thursday, the wife was charged with four felonies in connection with her husband's shooting: first-degree murder, aggravated assault with a firearm; aggravated discharge of a firearm; and aggravated household battery.

She was being held in the White County Jail. No further information was provided.

Second Judicial District Judges released the following statement:

“We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic death of our colleague and friend, Edwards County Judge Michael J. Valentine.”

Judge Valentine was elected district judge in 2016 and was elected by Second District voters in 2022.

Having previously served as prosecutor in Edwards County, he brought with him legal experience and a commitment to public service.

We will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”