GLEN CARBON MAN INDICTED ON MULTIPLE CHARGES

Randy G. Massey, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced today that on March 21, 2006, a federal grand jury returned an Indictment against GARY E. PEEL, age 62, of Glen Carbon, Illinois. The Indictment charges Bankruptcy Fraud, Obstruction of Justice, and two counts of Possession of Child Pornography. Bankruptcy Fraud carries a maximum statutory penalty of up to five (5) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to one (1) year supervised release. Obstruction of Justice carries a maximum statutory penalty of up to twenty (20) years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three (3) years' supervised release. Possession of Child Pornography carries a maximum statutory penalty of up to ten (10) years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three (3) years' supervised release. GARY E. PEELis presumed innocent of the charges until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.

The Indictment follows an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin F. Burke.