ASSISTANT STATE’S ATTORNEY PAUL MARCHESE HONORED BY DRUG ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES

WHEATON – DuPage County Assistant State’s Attorney Paul Marchese was honored today by Illinois’ Metropolitan Enforcement Groups in recognition of his outstanding prosecutorial support during a recent drug sting dubbed Operation Scratch Off.  In their selection of Marchese, Directors and Task Force Commanders throughout Illinois noted that “his dedication, guidance and assistance to DUMEG (DuPage Metropolitan Enforcement Group) during this investigation provided the resources which led to the arrests of 25 co-conspirators.”

            “I am extremely proud of the work Paul has done in combating drugs not only in DuPage County but throughout the entire Chicago metropolitan area,” remarked State’s Attorney Joe Birkett.  “I have known for years that Paul is an outstanding prosecutor.  I see it in the courtroom every day in his determination and commitment to making DuPage County a safer place for us and our children.  It is very gratifying for me to see his work recognized by his peers throughout the state.”

            Begun in January 2008, Operation Scratch Off was a three month long investigation resulting in the dismantlement of a significant drug trafficking organization operating in northern DuPage County with ties to Chicago and Rockford.  Proceeds from Operation Scratch Off include: more than three pounds of cocaine, with an estimated street value of $408,600; six vehicles – including one with a non-factory installed hidden compartment in which drugs were discovered; and seven firearms – one that was reported stolen.

            This year’s annual awards luncheon was held at the Par-A-Dice Hotel in East Peoria.

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