Wife, son of Lt. Joe Gliniewicz are under criminal investigation

CHICAGO (FOX 32 News) - FOX 32 News has just learned that Lt. Joe Gliniewicz’s wife Melodie and son D.J. are under criminal investigation in connection with the embezzlement of funds from the Fox Lake Police Explorer Program.

"With those partners, our investigation strongly indicates criminal activity on the part of at least two other individuals," Lake County Major Crimes Task Force Commander George Filenko said.

Investigators believe Lt. Gliniewicz took his own life, on September 1st, because his theft of funds from the Explorer Program was about to be exposed.

Now, FOX 32’s Craig Wall has confirmed police are investigating whether Melodie and D.J Gliniewicz had any part in the embezzling scheme.

Through an attorney, the Gliniewicz family released a statement saying: "Today has been another day of deep sorrow for the Gliniewicz Family. The family has cooperated with the Task Force’s investigation and will not comment at this time.  The Gliniewicz family requests that their privacy be respected as they continue to cope with the loss of the beloved husband and Father."

The Lake County Sheriffs' Department will handle the embezzlement case and a spokesman says that could take some time. It's not clear what the The Department of Justice Investigation entails, but with DJ Gliniewicz in the Army, it would suggest their focus could be on him.

"The Village fully supports the prosecution of each and every individual who conspired with Lt. Gliniewicz and or has engaged in criminal activity that came at the expense of our community, our police department and those we serve," said Village Administrator Anne Marrin.

The mayor, a friend of Lt. Glinewicz, was shocked by the news, calling the evidence pretty damning.

"It doesn't change the fact that he was my friend, he might have had some warts but overall he was a good man and he did much for our youth and our community and he was a public servant for 30 years," said Mayor Donny Schmit.