Libertyville, IL Divorce and Family Attorney News Archive

In a disturbing case from Round Lake Beach, Lake County Judge Michael Nerheim has ordered Dominque Servant and Joey L. Ruffin to remain behind bars as they face serious charges linked to the tragic death of 8-year-old Markell Pierce. Prosecutors, led by Assistant Lake County State’s Attorney Jeffrey Facklam, have presented a troubling pattern of systematic abuse that raises concerns commonly associated with civil litigation in the realm of divorce and family law.

The allegations suggest that the horrifying treatment also extended to Markell's 10-year-old sister, who is currently hospitalized. This has prompted community leaders, including State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart, to speak out about the alarming nature of domestic violence affecting families in the Chicago area.

The Lake County Major Crimes Task Force is actively continuing its investigation into the abuse charges. They emphasize the urgent need to address systemic failures that allow such tragedies to occur. Servant and Ruffin are expected to appear in court again on March 3, amid growing concerns regarding the effectiveness of criminal defense measures in cases of child abuse and family violence.