On Sunday evening, a dramatic incident unfolded at the River Inn Motel in Fox River Grove, resulting in the arrest of a 19-year-old woman. Faith A. Harnish, a resident of the motel, was denied pre-trial release by a judge following allegations of assault and confrontations with law enforcement.
Initial Response and Victim Treatment
At approximately 9:50 p.m., emergency services were dispatched to the motel located at 1000 Northwest Highway. The response team included:
- Fox River Grove Police Department
- Fox River Grove Fire Protection District
- Cary Fire Protection District
Initial reports indicated a man had been stabbed in the face. The victim, later identified as Harnish’s boyfriend, was transported to a local hospital by ambulance. A witness reported that while the man was bleeding from his head, he was able to walk unassisted before paramedics arrived.
Criminal Allegations and Search Operation
According to a criminal complaint filed in McHenry County Circuit Court, Harnish allegedly used a steak knife to inflict a laceration on the right side of the victim’s face. When police arrived at the scene, Harnish was not immediately located, prompting a search operation.
To aid in the search, authorities called in additional resources:
- A McHenry County sheriff’s canine unit
- Huntley Police Department’s drone
Dramatic Arrest Captured on Video
Around 11 p.m., an officer spotted Harnish near the motel. Initially non-compliant, she fled into a wooded area. The situation escalated when Harnish emerged, running towards the police canine while shouting provocations.
A video recorded by a Lake and McHenry County Scanner photographer captured the tense moments of the arrest. The footage showed Harnish:
- Running towards the police dog, clapping and jumping
- Kneeling with her hands in the air before being arrested
- Yelling profanities at the canine and officers
- Attempting to kick the arresting officer twice in the legs
Additional Incidents and Charges
The criminal complaint further alleged that Harnish:
- Spat on two officers
- Threw and shattered a landline phone at the police department
As a result of these actions, Harnish faces multiple charges:
- Two counts of domestic battery
- Two counts of aggravated battery of a peace officer
- Criminal damage to property
Legal Proceedings and Detention
The McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office filed a petition to detain Harnish pending trial, citing her as a “real and present threat to the safety of others.” On Monday, McHenry County Judge Carl Metz granted this petition, denying Harnish pre-trial release.
A status of preliminary hearing was scheduled for Wednesday morning, marking the next step in the legal process for this case.
Community Impact
This incident has drawn significant attention in the Fox River Grove community and surrounding areas. Local news outlets, including the Lake and McHenry County Scanner, have been covering the story, providing residents with updates on the situation.
The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in responding to domestic violence incidents and the potential dangers involved in apprehending suspects. It also underscores the importance of mental health resources and intervention strategies in preventing such violent outbursts.
As the legal proceedings continue, the community awaits further details and the outcome of this troubling incident at the River Inn Motel.
