East Central Reporter

The Illinois Attorney General's Office has accepted a review of a potential criminal case involving DeWitt County Board Chairman Dan Matthews. The investigation concerns purchases made from CDS Office Technologies, where Matthews serves as Vice President of Sales.

State’s Attorney Markwell confirmed the referral to the Public Integrity Bureau, stating, "This matter was referred to the Public Integrity Bureau of the Illinois Attorney General’s Office by my office on December 7, 2023. The Attorney General’s Office formally accepted review of this matter on January 8, 2024." He directed any further inquiries about the investigation's status to the Attorney General’s Office.

The case follows an earlier Freedom of Information Act request that revealed no disclosure of Matthews' association with CDS Office Technologies in his Statement of Economic Interest documents, despite over $225K in transactions with the Sheriff's Office alone.

Markwell previously referred another case to the same bureau concerning a convicted Waupella Township Road District Highway Commissioner. In that instance, he stated, “This matter was referred to the Public Integrity Bureau of the Illinois Attorney General’s Office by my office for follow-up investigation and potential prosecution."

The distinction between "review" and "follow-up investigation" in these cases may suggest different stages in their respective processes. However, Markwell did not specify which law enforcement agency conducted the current investigation.

Edgar County Watchdogs initiated their inquiry into this matter at the end of July 2023. They noted that sending it to the AG within six months is significant given typical timelines for criminal investigations.

Further updates will be provided if new information arises or if Chairman Matthews responds.