An early-morning incident today (Thursday) finds one man in custody and another likely to be arrested after Watseka Police responded to a call about a hate crime.

37-year-old Donald Russell of Watseka is charged with robbery, aggravated battery, mob action, theft, escape and resisting a police officer.

Police report they’re seeking a second suspect in connection with the hate crime.

Watseka officers responded to a 9-1-1 call of a robbery and theft in progress in the 100-block of E. Oak Street just after 1 am.

A male victim, wearing a dress, was approached by two individuals questioning his gender. The victim, according to police, attempted to walk away but was punched in the face and had his purse stolen. The two assailants fled.
Police were able to locate one of the suspects. Russell was taken to the Iroquois County Jail.

94.1 WGFA