The demise of family values bothers now-retired Judge Gordon Lustfeldt. He says accountability, or lack of it, is a growing issue that troubles society.

Judge Lustfeldt was on the bench for the last time Friday. He took time to thank voters for their support over the years. The peoples' confidence, he said, is always important and appreciated. Lustfeldt was re-elected six times over the years.

"It's time," he said. "It's the right decision for me and my family."

As rewarding as serving the public can be, Lustfeldt also reflects on troubling cases he had to hear...like abuse of children. Family matters, he said, need to be a priority again. People need to take responsibility.

Lustfeldt began his law career as an assistant state's attorney. He was in private practice before a successful run for Iroquois County State's Attorney. From there, he was appointed to the bench and served until his retirement Friday.

A graduate of EIU, Lustfeldt then attended the U of I Law School.

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