State’s Attorney: Police force used against Gounaris was determined to be justified

DIXON, Ill. (WTVO) — The Ogle County State’s Attorney Mike Rock announced authorities’ use of force against Jonathon Gunaris was justified on September 27.

Illinois State Police’s Major Crime Investigation Unit conducted the investigation and State’s Attorney J. Hanley issued a memorandum concluding that the officers acted reasonably and lawfully.

Three Ogle County deputies were injured in June after suspect, Jonathon Gounaris, allegedly opened fire on them during a standoff situation at the Lost Lake community just outside of Dixon.

According to Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle, on June 12, at 8:39 a.m., police were called to the 400 block of Wild Rice Lane.

VanVickle said a 911 call was made by a family member, claiming Gounaris had threatened them and himself.

Multiple agencies, including the Ogle County Sheriff and first responders from Dixon, Oregon, Mount Morris, and Polo, were called to the scene.

The SWAT team and hostage negotiators were called at 9:18 a.m., and repeatedly tried to make contact with the suspect, VanVickle said.

At 11:51 a.m., authorities made entry into the home and, “immediately upon entering the house, our deputies received fire.” Police returned fire, incapacitating the suspect.

Police said Gounaris was armed with multiple firearms, a fixed-blade knife, pepper spray and ballistic armor.

Two of the three deputies injured in the shooting were transported to KSB Hospital, according to Nancy Varga, Chief of Staff. The other deputy was flown to OSF St. Anthony’s Hospital in Rockford and underwent surgery.

The suspect was also taken to the hospital where he underwent surgery.

Gounaris is in custody and his next court appearance is on October 17th in the Ogle County Judicial Center.

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