East Central Reporter

Coles County – The release of body cam footage has brought to light the demeanor of Jerry Willison, a former trustee of the Oakland Fire Protection District, who faces seven felony charges of official misconduct. Indicted in April 2022, Willison's attitude towards these serious allegations is raising eyebrows.

In the footage, Willison appears unfazed by the charges as he converses with a deputy waiting to execute a search warrant at his home. Notably, Willison mentions knowing about the warrant weeks in advance, questioning how charged individuals could be aware so early. He comments on having ample time to dispose of any incriminating evidence and suggests that nothing would be found because the fire department holds all records.

However, an attorney for the fire department contradicted this claim when responding to a Freedom of Information Act request. The attorney stated: “The availability of records from the tenure of the previous board is spotty. What is attached is what the current Board has been able to locate at this point.”

Further into the video, Willison receives a call from his son Kyley regarding searches conducted at their properties. The deputy confirms that Kyley's house was searched at a time arranged to ensure children were not present.

Willison allegedly laughed off accusations related to six counts of official misconduct concerning meeting irregularities. He insisted meetings took place despite legal requirements for public notice and accessibility not being met in many cases.

Forgery charges are also part of Willison's legal troubles. Under Illinois law (720 ILCS 5/17-3), forgery encompasses making or altering documents with fraudulent intent and includes digital signatures and electronic records.

Evidence indicates that minutes were fabricated for non-existent meetings, some involving Kyley's wife Kelsey, another former trustee who hasn't been charged yet but reportedly attended meetings she later denied attending.

While Kyley claims responsibility for all alleged crimes, it is noted that Jerry Willison signed checks benefiting his business ventures at his golf course and hemp farm—an action potentially linked to one of the charges against him.

Jerry Willison’s trial is scheduled for November 4, 2025.