Illinois Judge Murdered Outside Home, Wife Charged in Shooting

In a tragic case out of Illinois, Second Judicial Circuit Court Judge Michael J. Valentine was found dead outside his home in Albion on Nov. 5. His wife, Megan Valentine, has been charged with his murder. The death has left his family and community grieving and searching for answers.

A Grim Discovery in Albion

The Edwards County Sheriff's Office responded to a wellness check at the Valentine residence on County Road 600 around 12:14 p.m. When they arrived, deputies found the 43-year-old judge's body outside the home. Shortly after, Megan Valentine, 44, was taken into custody.

Authorities have charged her with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, aggravated discharge of a firearm, and aggravated domestic battery. Megan Valentine remains in custody at the White County Jail, about 25 miles from Albion. Her defense attorney did not object to her detention during her first court appearance on Nov. 8.

A Life of Service Cut Short

Michael Valentine was well-known in Edwards County, where he had served as the State's Attorney for eight years before being elected as a circuit court judge in 2016. He was reelected in 2022 and became a resident judge of the Second Judicial Circuit, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues.

Valentine's dedication to public service extended beyond the courtroom. He previously worked as a Chicago EMT and was a member of the Albion Fire Department. A graduate of Southern Illinois University, he also held memberships in the Illinois State Bar Association and the Illinois Judges Association.

According to NBC News, Valentine's colleagues described him as a "distinguished jurist" with an unwavering commitment to justice and compassion for those who appeared in his court. His family and friends remembered him as a devoted father and a loving son who made a significant impact on the lives of those around him.

Questions Loom Over Valentine's Death

Despite the charges against Megan Valentine, authorities have yet to provide details about what led to the fatal shooting. Investigators have not disclosed a potential motive or the circumstances surrounding the crime. The Illinois State Police, who are leading the investigation, submitted their findings to prosecutors before charges were filed.

Remembering Michael Valentine

Judge Valentine's death has cast a shadow over Edwards County, where he was a trusted public servant and an integral part of the local legal system. The Second Judicial Circuit judges issued a statement expressing their grief, noting that Valentine will be sorely missed.

References: Illinois judge found dead outside of home, wife charged with murder in his fatal shooting | Illinois judge Michael J. Valentine found dead outside his home as his wife is charged with murder