Armed sex offender sentenced

A Southern Illinois man has been sentenced to 35 years in prison after he admitted to distributing child pornography and obscene material to a minor.

Edward J. Bates, 57, most recently of Olney, Illinois, pleaded guilty to felony possession of a firearm, distribution of child pornography, attempted transfer of obscene matter to a minor, and offense by a registered sex offender.

U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft said the sentence underscores his office’s commitment to seeking the most significant sentences possible for those who endanger kids.

Most are family farms

According to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 93.2% of all Illinois farms are family owned, ranking Illinois 39th in the U.S. for family-owned farm share.

Farm Flavor researchers

See Full Page