Vonderheide Seeks Election as Judge

Shelby County State's Attorney Gina Vonderheide has announced her candidacy as Shelby County Resident Circuit Judge.

Vonderheide has served as State's Attorney the past five years. The seat on the bench came open with the recent death of Resident Circuit Judge Allen Bennett.

In a statement, Vonderheide shared: "As state's attorney, I have expanded our drug court program, which reduces recidivism and drug crimes in our communities and teaches people who are addicted to drugs how to live as productive members of society.

I am a lifelong Shelby County resident. I live on a family farm in rural Shumway, Shelby County with my husband of 15 years Travis. I have 3 stepdaughters and 2 sons and 6 grandchildren. I am a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Strasburg, Rotary International, Women of the Moose, the Shelby County Bar Association and the Illinois State's Attorney's Association.

I have tried my hardest to keep justice at the forefront of my office as state's attorney and I would bring that sense of fairness and even temperament to the bench. Judge Allen Bennett served Shelby County so well and he leaves big shoes to fill. I would be honored to join the wonderful group of judges in the 4th Judicial Circuit."

The election for the judicial seat will follow the regular election cycle in the March primary and the November general election.