Retired Joliet police lieutenant pleads not guilty to charges

A retired Joliet police lieutenant pleaded not guilty Thursday to official misconduct and drug-related charges stemming from an investigation that preceded his departure from the department last year.

Dennis J. McWherter, 53, pleaded not guilty to all six counts against him at an arraignment hearing, Kendall County State’s Attorney Eric Weis said.

The alleged offenses occurred Oct. 29 at the Joliet Police Department West Substation in Kendall County.

McWherter retired on Nov. 10.

Felony criminal charges against McWherter were filed March 22 by the Kendall County State's Attorney's Office.

According to the charges, McWherter took an opioid from a police department drug drop box, which is provided for
the public to dispose of unwanted medication.

According to the charging documents, McWherter was "acting in his official capacity," and he "unlawfully acquired hydrocodone, a controlled substance,
by the use of misrepresentation, fraud
or deception."

Hydrocodone is a painkiller that is considered an opioid.

Charges against McWherter include official misconduct, theft from government property, possession of a controlled substance and obtaining substance by fraud.

McWherter’s attorney, Jeff Tomczak, could not be reached Thursday for comment.

The case was investigated by Joliet police.

The West Substation is located at 7196 W. Caton Farm Road.