ILLINOIS STATE POLICE ARRESTS JACKSONVILLE MAN FOR BEARDSTOWN MURDER
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 5, 2025
April 5, 2025
BEARDSTOWN – Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 4 arrested 45-year-old Benchy Couloute of Jacksonville, IL for First Degree Murder (Class M Felony).
On Monday, March 24, 2025, ISP special agents were requested by the Beardstown Police Department to assist with a homicide investigation that occurred in the 1200 block of State Street in Beardstown, IL. The victim, 37-year-old Junior Kalonji of Beardstown, was found deceased inside the residence after BPD officers responded to a 911 call at the address.
After a thorough investigation, the case was presented to the Cass County State’s Attorney’s Office, and an arrest warrant was issued for Couloute.
During the investigation, it was determined Couloute fled to the state of Indiana. Indiana State Police located and arrested Couloute, in conjunction with ISP special agents. Couloute is being held at the Marion County, Indiana Sheriff’s Office pending extradition.
Benchy Couloute (M/45)
The charge is not evidence against the defendant, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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