On Saturday, May 12, 2018, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office had the privilege of escorting Mr. Matt Stanford, Ms. Kassie Bout, and Mr. Jacob Hernandez to their Senior Prom.

In April, Kassie Bout, a Senior at Warren Township High School, contacted the Sheriff’s Office with a request. Kassie’s request came in via a Facebook message to the Sheriff’s Office requesting a police escort for her friend Matt who she and Jacob were taking to their Senior Prom.

Matt Stanford moved from Washington State with his Mom and they currently live in Gurnee. Matt has a cognitive disability. Prior to moving to Gurnee, Matt faced challenging times in Washington State. His collection of police cars is what got him through many of those challenging moments.

Upon learning of Kassie’s request, Sheriff Curran approved Matt’s Senior Prom Escort. Deputy Stephen Campobasso arrived at Matt’s home at 3:45 PM sharp on Saturday, May 12, 2018, in a brand-new Lake County Sheriff’s police interceptor to escort the trio to their Senior Prom. Surrounded by loved ones, and curious neighbors, Matt, Kassie and Jacob arrived at their Senior Prom in style. Deputies Stancioiu and Navarro also arrived at Warren Township High School for additional photo opportunities.

Amidst all the prom and graduation preparation, Kassie even made Sheriff Curran and Deputy Campobasso police survival goodie bags.

On Wednesday, May 16, 2018, Matt, Kassie, and Jacob arrived at the Sheriff’s Office with picture frames, a poster full of notes, and a bin full of goodies to show their appreciation during National Police Week. Senior Utility Worker Rick Ruano gave Matt a Lake County Sheriff’s Office model Corvette to add to his collection of police cars. The students then enjoyed a tour of the Sheriff’s Office.

Photo 1 (L-R): Matt Stanford, Deputy Stephen Campobasso, Kim Stanford

Photo 2 (L-R):  Sheriff Mark Curran, Deputy Stephen Campobasso, Matt Stanford, Jacob Hernandez, Kassie Bout, Sergeant Sara Balmes