The Knox County Sheriff’s Office remains steadfast in its mission to protect children and ensure the safety of all residents across Knox County.
This week, the Knox County Sheriff’s Office executed two separate arrests involving serious offenses related to child safety and welfare.
ARREST – JACOB J. CROXTON
On the morning of October 20, 2025, Knox County Sheriff’s Office investigators located and arrested Jacob J. Croxton (M/W, 41, of Bushnell, IL) at a rural business near Oneida, Illinois.
Croxton was taken into custody without incident on a McDonough County warrant for:
• Two counts of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse (Class 2 Felony)
Upon confirming Croxton’s location in Knox County, investigators acted swiftly to ensure his safe apprehension. He was transported to the Knox County Jail, pending transfer to McDonough County authorities.
The Knox County Sheriff’s Office extends appreciation to the McDonough County State’s Attorney’s Office for their cooperation and assistance.
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ARREST – FELICIA M. POTTER
On October 16, 2025, deputies responded to a report of a juvenile left unattended near Illinois Route 180 and Knox Highway 24, outside of Victoria.
Through a coordinated effort between Knox and Stark County Deputies, the child was located safely.
Following investigation, Felicia M. Potter (W/F, 34, of East Galesburg) was identified as the driver who left the area after a verbal altercation, leaving with her 11-month-old infant and another minor in the vehicle.
Potter was arrested and charged with:
• Two (2) counts – Child Endangerment
• One (1) count – Child Abandonment
• One (1) count – Reckless Driving
The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) was notified and continues to assist in the investigation. Both children were placed into protective care pending review by DCFS and the Knox County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Sheriff Jack Harlan Jr. emphasized that child safety remains the highest priority for the Knox County Sheriff’s Office:
“Every child deserves to be safe and protected. Our investigators will continue to work with surrounding agencies and community members to ensure those who endanger or exploit children are held accountable.”
The Knox County Sheriff’s Office extends its gratitude to the McDonough County State’s Attorney’s Office, Knox County State’s Attorney’s Office, the Stark County Sheriff’s Office, DCFS caseworkers, and community members whose quick actions helped ensure the safety of the children involved.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
***Courtesy of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office Facebook Page***
