Two men are facing rape charges in connection with the alleged assault of a bartender in Momence. Manteno Police conducted the investigation after it was learned both suspects had what Momence Police Chief Jeff Cavender said "personal and professional affiliations with members of the Momence Police Department.

The suspects, 45-year-old Thomas Madison and 39-year-old John Harrison were arrested (Thursday) for Criminal Sexual Assault and Unlawful Restraint. The arrests were for the alleged rape of the bartender during her working shift at a downtown bar.

Both men are jailed. They're expected in court for bond hearings today (Friday).

In a press release, Momence Police Chief Jeff Cavender said the department was "alerted to a criminal sexual assault that had just occurred at a business (in the 100 block of East Washington Street) around 1:30 am Saturday. The 38-year-old woman was allegedly attacked in the bar's restroom.

Manteno Police were contacted to head up the investigation to avoid any conflict – when it was learned who the men were and their ties to the Momence department.

It wasn't until 3 p.m. on Thursday that Manteno police arrested Madison and Harrison.

The Daily-Journal reports Madison is a former president of the Momence school board. Harrison was a volunteer football coach at Momence High School last fall.

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