Albion, IL — In a shocking incident that has rattled a quiet Illinois community, a local circuit court judge was found deceased outside his home earlier this week, leading to the arrest of his wife on charges including first-degree murder. The victim, identified as Judge Michael J. Valentine of the Illinois Second Judicial Circuit Court, was discovered fatally shot during a wellness check outside his residence in Albion on November 5.
Judge Valentine, 43, had been serving as the resident circuit judge for Edwards County since his election in 2016. Notably, he had been reelected for a second term in 2022, underscoring his established role within the judicial system of the region. His legal career was preceded by a notable tenure as Edwards County’s State’s Attorney, a position he held for eight years.
Prior to his legal and judicial career, Valentine was actively engaged in public service in other capacities. He worked as an EMT in Chicago and was also a member of the Albion Fire Department, showcasing a longstanding commitment to community service. Valentine was an alumnus of Southern Illinois University where he earned his law degree, later enhancing his credentials by joining both the Illinois State Bar Association and the Illinois Judges Association.
The late judge is survived by his two children, parents, and other relatives. He was remembered by his family as a dedicated father and a fair judge whose efforts significantly impacted the lives of those he served.
The circumstances surrounding Judge Valentine’s untimely demise led to the immediate arrest of his wife, Megan S. Valentine. She faces severe charges including aggravated battery with a firearm, aggravated discharge of a firearm, and aggravated domestic battery. Megan Valentine made her initial court appearance on November 8, where her continued custody was not contested by her defense, pending a subsequent hearing set for November 12.
Currently, Megan Valentine is being held at the White County Jail, located approximately 25 miles south of Albion. The motives behind the tragic shooting have not been disclosed by law enforcement officials.
The loss of Judge Valentine has struck a chord within the local judiciary and beyond, prompting expressions of grief and remembrance. “Judge Valentine was a distinguished jurist committed to justice. His compassionate conduct won the trust and respect of those who appeared before him,” stated a collective message from his fellow Second Circuit judges. They described the tragedy as a profound loss to both the legal community and the public whom he served diligently.
The incident in Albion adds to a troubling trend of violence involving judicial figures, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety and security within the legal and judicial communities. This event follows closely on the heels of another, where a sheriff in Letcher County, Kentucky was charged with the murder of a district judge earlier in September, suggesting an unsettling pattern that may require address at higher levels of governance and law enforcement strategy.
As the community of Albion mourns, and the legal process unfolds, many are left to reflect on the risks faced by public servants and the profound impact of their service. The case continues to develop, and the forthcoming court proceedings are likely to reveal more about the circumstances that led to this tragic incident.