Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – As the result of an internal investigation into a motor vehicle crash involving a retired Springfield Police Department sergeant, four officers have been disciplined. Chief Ken Scarlette released the results of an internal affairs investigation Wednesday afternoon. The crash occurred Sept. 5, 2024 in the 400 block of East Lakeshore Drive.

Michael Egan, who had just retired from his position as an SPD sergeant at the time of the crash, was allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol when his Toyota 4Runner collided with a motorcycle. Trevor Hopkins and Chelsey Farley, both from Springfield, were injured in the crash.

As a result of the investigation, Sgt. Andy Zander was suspended for six days for failure to supervise and for acting in violation of rules and orders. Zander was ordered to attend and complete retraining.

Three other SPD officers, Adam Yanor, Edward Wheeler and Richard Singletary were issued written reprimands based on violation of rules and orders. The officers were also required to attend and complete retraining.

As part of the internal investigation, DUI expert Officer Larry Brooks provided insight into whether the officer’s treatment of Egan was appropriate in a DUI case. According to the report released by Scarlette, Brooks advised that Egan’s drinking of water would not have affected blood alcohol concentrations. Brooks also commented on the appropriateness of allowing Egan to remain outside of the squad car during the investigation at the scene, instead of detaining him inside the vehicle.

Scarlette said in his written statement, accompanying the release, that the department was releasing the information including a timeline of events, redacted police reports, and body-worn camera footage to maintain transparency.

According to the timeline provided, the process of transferring the crash investigation to the Illinois State Police began 23 minutes after the arrival of the first SPD officer on the scene.

Egan, who is charged with aggravated DUI – a felony, is set to go to trial before Judge Robin Schmidt on April 28.

 

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