Update: Cyclists Attacked in Lake County, Ill.

This is an update to a blog entry from October 16. You’ll recall that Mr. Thomas Lynch was alleged to have caused a 16-bike pileup which resulted in numerous injuries in Lake County, Illinois on September 22. The original blog entry can be found here.

On December 3, Mr. Lynch appeared in court, where the original traffic violations were dismissed.  But, that is not bad news, because a couple weeks earlier on November 15, a warrant was issued for his arrest, on four felony charges: 2 counts of Aggravated Battery, 1 count Leaving the Scene of an Accident Involving Personal Injury, and 1 count Reckless Driving. He made a court appearance on November 26 and was subsequently released on a recognizance bond. His next court date related to the felony charges will be December 11 on procedural matters and the victims and witnesses are now being contacted by the State’s Attorney’s staff as they continue to develop their case.

When we first learned of this incident, the League’s executive director Andy Clarke wrote a letter to the Lake County State’s Attorney urging him to vigorously investigate and prosecute this case. Our collective voice has been heard. Thanks to all of you who also wrote Lake County State’s Attorney Michael J. Waller, who seems to agree that this was not simply a minor traffic violation but a very serious offense.

Updates on this case will be provided as we receive additional information.