The Champaign Police Department detained Benny Loveless, 44, Friday afternoon for allegedly violating federal probation, just days after he was first arrested on Sept. 27. CPD disputed a claim and photo of the arrest circulating on social media that implied Immigration and Customs Enforcement was detaining people in Champaign.
CPD wrote in an online statement that the claims are not aligned with the facts of the arrest.
According to the statement, officers were notified that Loveless was believed to reside in the community. A patrol officer spotted Loveless on the 300 block of North Neil Street, then detained him on a federal warrant.
The United States Marshals Service later arrived at CPD headquarters to take Loveless into federal custody.
Loveless was first arrested on multiple charges of aggravated battery after he allegedly cut someone with a knife and struck another. On Sept. 29, Loveless pleaded not guilty to charges of aggravated battery in a public place and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
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He was issued pretrial release on a set of conditions. Loveless’ next court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 4 at 9 a.m.
The statement concluded by stating that CPD abides by Illinois state law, which prohibits local law enforcement from assisting federal agents with civil immigration enforcement.
This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with more information can call the police department at 217-351-4545. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers by phone at 217-373-8477, online or through the “P3 Tips” mobile app.
