Former Wilmette Park District Employee Charged for Stealing $10K

A former Wilmette Park District employee has been arrested for allegedly stealing more than $10,000 from the organization, according to a statement released from Wilmette Police. Dennis R. Callaghan, 49, of Northbrook was charged with felony theft after nearly a year-long investigation.

Park district officials became aware of Callaghan's alleged theft and notified the police in August of last year.

"We contacted police in August 2010 regarding theft at the golf course and that resulted in the investigation," Steve Wilson, the executive director of the Wilmette Park District, told Patch. Following their independent investigation, police concluded Callaghan allegedly stole money between January 2009 and August 2010. Callaghan was arrested Thursday evening and held until being taken to bond court Friday morning.

Meanwhile, Police Chief Brian King spoke highly of the park district's cooperation.

“We commend the Wilmette Park District for bringing this matter to our attention and for their attentiveness and cooperation throughout the investigation.” King said in a press release.

Callaghan is set to appear at the Second Municipal District Courthouse in Skokie on June 8 at 1:30 p.m. Stay tuned to Patch for more updates.