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Water Damage Restoration in Peoria, IL
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from Bradley University in Peoria to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Peoria, IL is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Peoria. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.
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Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:
Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.
Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.
Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.
Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.
Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.
Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.
Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.
Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like GAR Hall in Peoria, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Peoria.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference
Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.
Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.
Tom Allen
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1020 W Fullerton Ave Unit G, Addison, IL 60101
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Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Peoria, IL
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Independence Village Senior Living in Peoria for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Peoria, IL, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Peoria?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:
Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.
Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to
Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Glen Oak Park in Peoria. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.
Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.
Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.
Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Peoria, IL, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to PettengillMorron House Museum in Peoria, we can repair and restore it.
Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Peoria restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:
Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.
Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.
Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.
Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.
Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Peoria, IL, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:
Clean Water Damage
This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.
Gray Water Damage
Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.
Black Water Damage
The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:
- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Peoria, IL
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
The Water Damage Company in Peoria, IL, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Connected in Peoria. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Peoria rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Peoria, IL
Real estate sales in Peoria, Tazewell and Woodford counties for March 8, 2025
Josh Jenkehttps://www.pjstar.com/story/business/real-estate/2025/03/08/illinois-real-estate-sales-in-peoria-tazewell-woodford-counties/81191212007/
These real estate transactions, recorded the week of Feb. 24, are compiled from information on file with Peoria, Tazewell and Woodford counties. They represent sales of $78,000 or more.PEORIA COUNTY5600 N. Withershin Point, Peoria: Joanne Misak and Jennifer A. Monge to Karthik Parthasarathi, $82,500.2901 W. Myrtle Ave., Edelstein: Eli M. and Emily G. Wieland to Josiah D. Smith, $98,500.3509 W. Willow Knolls Road, #2H, Peoria: Youssef Boudjarane to...
These real estate transactions, recorded the week of Feb. 24, are compiled from information on file with Peoria, Tazewell and Woodford counties. They represent sales of $78,000 or more.
PEORIA COUNTY
5600 N. Withershin Point, Peoria: Joanne Misak and Jennifer A. Monge to Karthik Parthasarathi, $82,500.
2901 W. Myrtle Ave., Edelstein: Eli M. and Emily G. Wieland to Josiah D. Smith, $98,500.
3509 W. Willow Knolls Road, #2H, Peoria: Youssef Boudjarane to Nadia Rehman, $106,000.
1623 & 1624 E. Hendryx Lane, Peoria: Barry Tobin to Jason and Samantha Wolfgang, $120,000.
2601 W. Willowlake Drive, #37, Peoria: Aaron M. and Hadassah Rieker to Bonnie Hermann Rose, $123,500.
7504 S. Hanna City-Glasford Road, Glasford: Scott Schilling to Jarod Reatherford and Jacob Stewart, $125,000.
2504 W. Downs Circle, West Peoria: Amy M. Durst to Jenica Babin, $127,000.
5202 N. Ronald Road, Peoria: Joseph R. Fontana to Noah Showalter and McKenzie Meadows, $133,500.
1901 N. Sheridan Road, Peoria: Peter J. and Nancy L. Ghighi to Global One Properties Inc., $140,000.
2501 W. Sherman Ave., Peoria: Daniel Cady to Deborah A. Duran, $155,000.
1809 W. Sherman Ave., Peoria: Brian Gissel to Christian and Roshawn Johnson, $158,000.
502 W. Evans St., Princeville: Mark L. II and Jill M. Stickhost to Jacob S. Knous and Kayleigh E. Miller, $158,000.
3505 W. Saymore Lane, Peoria: Kenneth E. Weeks, Alex Bastian and Nicole Rook to Erin L. Bender, $163,000.
5302 N. Montclair Ave., Peoria Heights: 360 Home Design LLC to Alan D. and Cindy J. Granneman, $165,000.
14702 W. Laura Road, Princeville: Carl A. and Brenda L. Theobald to Andrew and Melissa Theobald, $165,000.
504 W. Melbourne Ave., Peoria: Isaac C. and Blake A. Bennett to Lionel and Aline Malebranche, $167,000.
TAZEWELL COUNTY
507 S. Linden St., Delavan: Aaron P. and Amanda L. Duvall to Natalie C. Nelson, $79,900.
214 Poplar St., Pekin: Eric W. and Stephanie L. Schlag to Tysin L. Morrison, $88,500.
1426 Matilda St., Pekin: Lanell Roe to Black Crane LLC, $90,000.
1920-1922 & 1960-1962 Mayflower Drive, Pekin, and 107 Lost Creek Court, Pekin: Tremont Royal Point LLC to Gullett Construction LLC, $100,000.
1300 N. 11th St., Pekin: Dawn M. and Deron T. Roche to Cathy S. and Steven A. Bethel, $110,000.
107 Walnut St., North Pekin: Joretta A. Schulze to Alice Cotton, $120,000.
1012 S. 6th St., Pekin: Karen F. and Timothy D. Parker to Mackenzie Hodge, $151,750.
112 Donald Court, East Peoria: Cheri L. Harsh to Jaden and Zoey Cavallo, $154,500.
219 Marion, East Peoria: Federal National Mortgage Association to Diana Guyton and Cheryl and Mark Jaffray, $160,000.
114 S. Eastern Ave., Minier: Darrel A. and Sandra K. Brandon to Mason N. Moore, $160,000.
1014 Miller St., Washington: Charlotte and Zachary Losey to Toni Saperstein, $162,000.
111 Knollaire Court, East Peoria: Brandon Parrott to Squoria Wilson, $166,500.
102 Tonti Court, Marquette Heights: Bryce and Danielle Armstrong to Chase Murphy, $169,000.
1110 Glenn St., A-B, Washington: Driton Ramadani to Joseph A. Harris, $180,000.
1310 Coolidge Ave., Pekin: Daisy and Micah Bouillon to Felicia Snyder, $186,000.
209 W. Glen St., East Peoria: Dana M. and Darrell D. Driggers to Nicole and Skyler Polhemus, $210,000.
1702 Heisel Ave., Pekin: Jeffrey S. and Mary Ann R. Arnold to Jessica and Jordan Taylor, $219,900.
407 Devonshire Road, Washington: Honeylyn C. Ayco and Matthew R. Gaffney to Ashley and Jeremy Sandlin, $220,000.
371 E. Fernwood St., Morton: Tazewell Floor Covering Inc. to Hailie G. Hahn and Nicholas J. Lehr, $235,000.
363 S. Capitol St., Pekin: Donald E. and Maria J. Hart to Daniel and Victoria Currier, $260,000.
Parcel Number 05-06-10-306-003, Tazewell County: KKAM Properties LLC to Zeller Construction & Remodeling LLC, $288,000.
1014 Wellington Drive, Washington: Eleanor M. Ferre to Kenneth D. Hlebasko, $335,000.
1609 Grandlake Court, Pekin: Trigavig LLC to Aaron M. and Kristine A. Greene, $519,900.
WOODFORD COUNTY
61 Eichhorn Road, Spring Bay: Daniel N. Atherton to Anthony and Kristina Bencher, $125,000.
1514 Coal Bank Road, Metamora: Jackie Aguilera to Nathan G. and Keri Montgomery, $130,000.
101 Della St., Spring Bay: Jo N. Carlisle to Jonathan Coulter, $150,000.
302 W. Tazewell St., East Peoria: Anthony J. Bencher to Douglas E. Griffin, $157,000.
502 W. Madison St., Metamora: Michael and Tara L. Hamerlinck to Mark E. and Mary K. Bain, $203,000.
112 E. Pine St., Metamora: Michael D. and Denise A. Waldschmidt to Thomas D. Doubet, $265,000.
IHSA boys basketball finals 2025: How to watch Illinois state playoffs on TV, streaming
Wes Huetthttps://www.pjstar.com/story/sports/high-school/basketball/2025/03/13/ihsa-boys-basketball-playoffs-how-to-watch-illinois-state-finals/82268108007/
All 16 Illinois High School Association boys basketball state finalists will play Thursday, March 13 through Saturday, March 15, 2025, at State Farm Center on the campus of University of Illinois in Champaign.Fans can watch the semifinals and championships on the ...
All 16 Illinois High School Association boys basketball state finalists will play Thursday, March 13 through Saturday, March 15, 2025, at State Farm Center on the campus of University of Illinois in Champaign.
Fans can watch the semifinals and championships on the IHSA broadcasts or streaming on their computers or mobile devices on the NFHS Network. Third-place games will only stream on the NFHS Network.
How to watch Manual and Peoria Christian at IHSA state finals
In Peoria, the games will broadcast over the air on one of three channels: WEEK NBC 25.1, WEEK ABC 25.2 or WEEK CW 25.3 and stream at NFHS.com. Here is when and where games for Peoria Christian and Peoria Manual will broadcast and stream.
Peoria Christian in Class 1A
Manual in Class 2A
IHSA boys basketball Class 1A state finals TV schedule
IHSA boys basketball Class 2A state finals TV schedule
IHSA boys basketball Class 3A state finals TV schedule
IHSA boys basketball Class 4A state finals TV schedule
IHSA boys basketball playoffs on TV
Here's how to watch in other parts of Illinois and in neighboring states. Check local listings, especially in markets with multiple channels.
IHSA streaming: Boys basketball state finals
The IHSA will live stream all of the IHSA boys basketball state finals games on NFHS.com and IHSA.org.
Tickets to the IHSA boys basketball playoffs
Looking for tickets? Host venue University of Illinois is selling digital tickets for the state finals in Champaign, Illinois. You can click this link to see all the IHSA state finals tickets available online. Tickets are $13 per session. All seating is general admission within assigned school sections.
Lawsuit claims defrocked priest sexually abused boy for years at Peoria Catholic church
Zach Rothhttps://www.pjstar.com/story/news/crime/2025/03/11/lawsuit-claims-priest-sexually-abused-boy-at-peoria-illinois-catholic-church-st-vincent-de-paul/82275632007/
The Catholic Diocese of Peoria is being sued by a man who claims that a defrocked priest sexually abused him when he was a student and parishioner at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in the late 1990s and early 2000s.Michael Eckert, whose family a...
The Catholic Diocese of Peoria is being sued by a man who claims that a defrocked priest sexually abused him when he was a student and parishioner at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Michael Eckert, whose family attended St. Vincent de Paul between 1997-2003, said in a lawsuit filed in Peoria County on Monday that Father Thomas Miller had sexually abused him once a month in that period. The abuse lasted from when Eckert was 8 years old until he was 14.
According to the initial complaint, filed by Eckert's attorneys at St. Paul-based Jeff Anderson & Associates, the diocese was negligent in allowing Miller to be alone with him and other children during this period, saying that there wasn't an adequate system in place to monitor or supervise abusive priests like Miller.
The complaint says that Miller's alleged abuse injured Eckert "physically, psychologically, spiritually, and emotionally." In addition, it also accuses the diocese of engaging in a decades-long cover-up of sexual abuse allegations, with officials having knowledge of child sexual abuse in the clergy as early as 1946.
In total, Anderson & Associates named 53 different priests as being accused of child sexual abuse at some point while working with the diocese, including Miller. Many of those were named in Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul's 2023 report on child sexual abuse in the Catholic church in the state, which accuses the diocese of many of the same things alleged in the lawsuit, such as protecting those accused of sexual abuse and poor record keeping.
'He is no longer afraid'
Jeff Anderson, lead attorney for Anderson & Associates, said during a Monday press conference that Eckert coming forward was a "courageous" act, saying that he had suffered in "secrecy" and "silence" for many years before filing the suit.
"He is no longer afraid," Anderson said. "He is freed by the truth. We are honored by his courage in coming forward and using his name in this lawsuit."
Anderson said that Eckert wanted other children to be protected from abusive priests along with exposing the diocese's practices toward those accused of abusing children. He said that prior leaders at the diocese, such as former Bishops John Meyers and Daniel Jenky, chose to protect the reputation of the church over the lives of young people.
"Bishop Meyers and Bishop Jenky, time and time again, ignored reports (and) complaints, chose to protect the reputation of the Diocese of Peoria and the priests like Father Miller at the peril of Michael and so many kids," Anderson said.
He said that the diocese made choices to ignore the hazard brought forth by protecting Miller and other abusive priests and hiding behind statutes of limitations that prevented legal action from being brought forth against them.
"They can't hide it any longer, because this case is brought within the statute of limitations," Anderson said. "They can't use it to hide the truth."
Priest suspended and removed after 'credible allegations'
Miller was suspended from the ministry in 2004 after the diocese received "credible allegations" of sexual abuse against a boy when he was working in Bloomington 25 years prior. He had been set to transfer back there shortly before the now-36-year-old man made the accusation against him.
Eventually, more people came forward with allegations against Miller, with an investigation conducted by the diocese before the Vatican made the decision to remove him from the priesthood in November 2006. He was the first priest in the diocese known to have been removed over accusations of sexual misconduct.
However, the diocese didn't fully admit Miller's status as a substantiated child abuser until 2018 and the lawsuit says that they haven't released details about when and where he was sexually abusing children during his tenure with the diocese, which began in 1979.
He was listed among the 51 priests in the Peoria diocese named as part of Raoul's report as being sexual abusers.
In a statement provided to the Journal Star on Tuesday, Bishop Louis Tylka, the current head of the diocese, said that he was committed to promoting their programs to promote a safe environment for children at their parishes and schools, while also asking for prayer for those who have suffered from abuse.
"We take seriously any accusation that is made of misconduct by a priest, deacon, religious or lay employee," Tylka said. "I am sorry to all those who were/are affected by the sin of abuse. As Bishop of the Diocese of Peoria, I remain committed to promoting the safe environment programs we have in place to provide a safe haven for children and young people. I ask for your ongoing prayers as we continue to work together to safeguard all of God’s people, and especially those who have suffered."
A hearing in the case is set for Aug. 22 at 9:30 a.m., with Peoria County Circuit Judge Timothy Cusack presiding over the proceedings.
Peoria Christian Basketball
maxpreps.comhttps://www.maxpreps.com/il/peoria/peoria-christian-chargers/basketball/
24-25Overall29-10Conference4-0 (1st)IL Rank1432024-25 V. BasketballContribute to the TeamShare team highlights with fans & media...
24-25
Overall
29-10
Conference
4-0 (1st)
IL Rank
143
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HIGHLIGHTS: Brayden Burries GOES OFF for 44 points in CIF Open Division state championship gameMar 16, 2025234.9k Views2:05Volcano Vista captures fourth straight state title in highest classification of New MexicoMar 16, 20259.3k Views2:29HIGHLIGHTS: Kendre Harrison leads Reidsville to 60th consecutive win and 2A state titleMar 16, 202542.1k Views
Schedule at a Glance
Tue, 3/11vs Greenfield/NorthwesternW 66-49Thu, 3/13vs EastlandL 35-55Fri, 3/14vs St. AnthonyW 61-51
Rankings
| Illinois#143 | +22 |
| Illinois Division 1A#9 | -- |
| Peoria#11 | -- |
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Catholic Diocese of Peoria sued for alleged sexual abuse of a child by a priest
Liz Lapehttps://www.25newsnow.com/2025/03/11/catholic-diocese-peoria-sued-over-alleged-sexual-abuse-child-by-priest/
PEORIA (25News Now) - A lawsuit was filed Monday against the Catholic Diocese of Peoria on behalf of a man who alleges a priest sexually abused him many years ago.The suit filed in Peoria County Court alleges Father Thomas Miller sexually abused Michael Eckert starting when Eckert was eight years old, between...
PEORIA (25News Now) - A lawsuit was filed Monday against the Catholic Diocese of Peoria on behalf of a man who alleges a priest sexually abused him many years ago.
The suit filed in Peoria County Court alleges Father Thomas Miller sexually abused Michael Eckert starting when Eckert was eight years old, between 1997 and 2003. The abuse happened at church, the rectory, and at St. Vincent de Paul Parish.
Attorneys from the law firm Jeff Anderson and Associates said since 1950, 20 reports of sexual abuse by clergymen have been made to bishops of the Diocese of Peoria.
Anderson said that the bishops have a long history of ignoring reports of abuse, and he noted that 53 Peoria-area clergymen have now been accused of sexual abuse of a child.
“Peoria stands, in my view and my experience, as one of the most dangerous, perilous, and difficult places of all the Catholic bishops in America when it comes to the handling of sexual abuse,” Anderson said.
The suit also named more than 20 current or former Peoria priests who the lawyers claim the bishops knew had been accused of sexually abusing children before Miller abused Eckert.
According to the Illinois Attorney General, Miller allegedly abused a different child at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Bloomington from 1979 to 1982, nearly 20 years before the abuse against Eckert.
Miller was put on leave in 2004, defrocked by the Vatican in 2006, and removed from the clerical state by the Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith in 2010.
In a statement to 25News, the leader of the Diocese of Peoria, Bishop Louis Tylka, said the diocese takes any accusation of misconduct seriously.
“We take seriously any accusation that is made of misconduct by a priest, deacon, religious or lay employee. Cooperating with the civil authorities, we investigate such accusations while offering assistance to those who have allegedly been harmed,” Tylka said in a statement.
“I am sorry to all those who were/are affected by the sin of abuse. As Bishop of the Diocese of Peoria, I remain committed to promoting the safe environment programs we have in place to provide a safe haven for children and young people. I ask for your ongoing prayers as we continue to work together to safeguard all of God’s people, and especially those who have suffered,” Tylka also said.
The lawsuit seeks unspecified financial damages from the diocese.
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