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By FELIX SARVER
fsarver@shawmedia.com
The Will County State's Attorney's Office released a termination letter regarding one of its employees after it was found to have violated a state transparency law.
Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul's Office issued a rare binding opinion on Feb. 10 that found State's Attorney James Glasgow's Office violated the Freedom of Information Act by improperly withholding the termination letter for Amy Burgett-Masse, 44, of Elwood.
Burgett-Masse was a legal secretary for Glasgow's office who was fired May 23, 2025. She faces charges of official misconduct and aggravated computer tampering. Her daughter, Ryane Burgett-Masse, 20, is also charged with aggravated computer tampering.
Glasgow's office "did not demonstrate" that disclosure of the termination letter would deprive Burgett-Masse "or any other party of a fair trial or impartial hearing," according to the Feb. 10 letter from R. Douglas Rees, chief deputy attorney general.
Raoul's office also did not find the disclosure of the letter would "materially impact witness testimony."
Glasgow's office had 35 days to comply with the attorney general's binding opinion or seek an administrative review in court.
After more than a month of no answers, Shaw Local contacted Glasgow's office on the 34th day and was told the office would release the termination letter the day after the 35th day.
Shaw Local agreed and the letter was disclosed on March 18.
It's rare for the attorney general's office to issue binding opinions against government agencies in Illinois that violate requests from the public or media seeking access to records.
Since 2020, the attorney general's public access bureau has received 21,704 requests to review FOIA requests and issued 59 binding opinions on FOIA requests, according to annual reports from the attorney general's office.
Usually, the attorney general issues non-binding opinions on whether violations occurred.
The last time Shaw Local received a binding opinion was Sept. 24, 2019 against the Joliet Police Department. The attorney general's office ruled in favor of Shaw Local receiving police reports with minimal redactions on the narrative content.
During certain points in 2019, the police department would not provide information on arrests, which led to Shaw Local to request police reports through FOIA. But the reports were heavily redacted.
Glasgow's office sought to keep Burgett-Masse termination letter confidential because it contained what they considered "non-public information" about the events leading to her termination, which would "interfere with the pending criminal prosecution and picking of a jury."
Raoul's office determined the termination letter was not created for law enforcement purposes but as a personnel record that documents the termination of Burgett-Masse's employment, according to the Feb. 10 letter from Rees.
Glasgow's office did not show that revealing "previously undisclosed information" in the termination letter is likely to "garner intense pretrial publicity" that could taint the pool of potential jurors in a county as large as Will County, Rees's letter said.
Will County has a population of 708,583 as of 2024 and it is considered the fourth largest in Illinois.
"Also, even if some potential jurors were exposed to the letter, voir dire may be used to identify and exclude potential jurors whose knowledge of relevant information may render them unable to be impartial," according to Rees' letter.
Voir dire, French for "to speak the truth," is a process where potential jurors are questioned by either a judge or attorneys to to determine their suitability for jury service, according to the Cornell Law School's Legal Information Institute.
The same point was raised in an attorney general non-binding opinion on why the police reports should have been disclosed during the early pretrial stage in the felony theft case against Theodore Brodeur, 60, the former CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 15, 2026 Media Contact Information: Carrie Skogsberg (309) 821-4175 news@countryfinancial.com
As planting season begins and farmers head back into the fields, COUNTRY Financial is encouraging the agricultural community to prioritize safety and check on farm insurance coverages. Taking proactive steps now can help reduce accidents, prevent breakdowns and protect farm operations during one of the busiest times of the year. COUNTRY received more than 180 farm equipment collision claims between the months of March and June 2025. These claims include collisions on the road with other vehicles, as well as collisions with buildings or other equipment on the farm. “The planting window is short, and farmers can’t afford to lose time to setbacks from accidents, which unfortunately can happen when rushed or not prepared,” said Zack Hinthorn, agribusiness underwriter at COUNTRY. “Taking time now, before the rush begins, keeps farmers safe and operations running smoothly.” Hinthorn shares the following tips for a safe and successful planting season: Improve visibility on the road
Accidents involving farm equipment often occur at dawn or dusk during peak commuting hours, especially when motorists attempt to pass slow-moving vehicles or do not anticipate turns or stops. Use flashing lights, ensure reflective tape and Slow-Moving Vehicle emblems are clean and confirm all lights are functioning properly to help maximize visibility and reduce risk. Remember to use turn signals, as drivers often misinterpret a tractor moving to the right side of the road before making a left turn.
Drivers should plan ahead during the busy planting season, remembering that farmers will be on the road and allowing for extra time. Slow down, stay focused on the road and look for the lights on farm vehicles. Prepare equipment Equipment malfunctions are a common cause of farm accidents. Thoroughly inspect and maintain all farm equipment before hitting the fields. Regular maintenance such as checking worn parts, replacing filters and lubricating moving components can reduce unexpected breakdowns and improve overall safety. Take extra caution when handling chemicals Chemical safety is another critical focus during planting season. Review safe handling procedures for fertilizers, pesticides and other hazardous materials with all farm workers to help ensure everyone is aligned on proper protocols. Have Safety Data Sheets (SDS) on-hand in case of emergency and ensure the use of personal protective equipment, including gloves, goggles and masks. “Safety on the farm isn’t just about equipment—it’s about awareness, communication and looking out for one another,” Hinthorn said. “Refreshing safety practices each season helps prevent injuries and protects everyone involved.” Prevent theft Theft of tools, chemicals and other personal property is common during planting season and can occur when equipment is left unlocked in the field, and when farmers are in and out of sheds frequently and don’t close and lock the doors. Take time to ensure valuable items are secured. Check insurance coverage and review extra coverage options Farmers should check their farm insurance coverages to be sure they have the right endorsements and coverages. For example, with Extra Expense coverage, a farmer who has a covered loss on a piece of equipment may be able to receive additional payment to rent equipment and resume operations. Farmers who sell seed corn need to purchase additional coverage. Check farm inventory lists to be sure they are accurate and up-to-date, especially if you have sold or purchased new equipment. Meeting with an insurance agent to discuss equipment, buildings, livestock, crops and employees can help ensure proper protections are in place and that any recent changes to operations are addressed. Take care of your health Finally, farmers are encouraged to prioritize their health and wellbeing. Long hours and physical demands can take a toll, making it important to take breaks, eat healthy meals, get enough rest and understand how medications may affect alertness. Let family members or employees know where you’re working and keep a phone or walkie‑talkie nearby in case of emergency. Taking time to prepare for a safe planting season helps prevent accidents, reduce stress and protect against the unexpected. COUNTRY Financial has been protecting farms for more than 100 years and has more than 400 Farm Certified representatives ready to serve farmers’ crop, farm and liability insurance needs. For more information, visit countryfinancial.com/farm. Policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, Bloomington, IL, an equal opportunity provider.
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