Local pilot assists Saline County deputies in ATV theft suspect’s arrest

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

ELDORADO, Ill., (KBSI) — The Saline County Sheriff’s Office is crediting a local resident and business owner for assisting deputies in the recent apprehension of a suspect involved in an ATV theft and recovery.

According to the sheriff’s office, Robbie Beaver, a longtime Eldorado resident and helicopter pilot, spotted the suspect fleeing from law enforcement on the stolen ATV. From the air, Beaver provided real-time updates on the suspect’s location and direction of travel to officers on the ground.

Sheriff Whipper Johnson later took the suspect into custody, an arrest captured on his body camera footage.

Sheriff’s officials said the incident is a reminder of the important role community members play in supporting local law enforcement.

“As the saying goes, it takes a village,” the department said in a statement. “Much of our success comes from strong relationships with community members who are willing to step in and assist when needed.”

Authorities noted that the suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.