Judge Decides Against Presiding Over Melodie Gliniewicz Case

WAUKEGAN, Ill. (AP) -- A judge has recused herself from presiding over the trial of the widow of a suburban Chicago police officer who tried to make his suicide appear as if he was gunned down in the line of duty.

Melodie Gliniewicz was indicted months after Fox Lake Police Lt. Charles Joseph Gliniewicz's death last September on charges the two siphoned money from a youth program. She's pleaded not guilty.

Lake County Assistant State's Attorney Scott Turk said Monday in removing herself Judge Victoria Rossetti stated she wanted to avoid the appearance of impropriety due to the potential conflict of interest. Turk said she didn't explain the conflict, adding Judge James Booras will preside at trial.

Defense attorney Donald Morrison said he is preparing a motion to vacate Rossetti's previous ruling rejecting a motion to dismiss charges against the 51-year-old Gliniewicz.

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