ILLINOIS — Eight residents have filed a lawsuit against local officials in Jefferson County, seeking the removal of a large Ten Commandments monument displayed on the courthouse lawn. Filed in the 2nd Judicial Circuit Court, the suit argues the religious display violates constitutional principles of government neutrality in matters of faith.
The plaintiffs, represented by the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, include individuals of both religious and non-religious backgrounds. They claim the county’s decision to host the monument on public property constitutes a government endorsement of religion.
How the Monument Ended Up Outside the Courthouse
The case stems from actions taken by Sheriff Jeff Bullard, who, according to the lawsuit, commissioned the monument last year with private donations. It was originally installed in the courthouse lobby but later moved outdoors after legal concerns were raised.
The relocation reportedly cost around $4,800, which was paid in part using a county-controlled account referred to as the “Chirper Fund.” In September 2024, the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners voted to keep the monument on county grounds, despite receiving formal warnings from legal counsel and the Freedom From Religion Foundation.
The structure now sits on the courthouse lawn and is described in court filings as a nearly seven-foot-tall Protestant version of the Ten Commandments.
ACLU and Local Pastor Speak Out
In a news release, Kevin Fee, legal director for the ACLU of Illinois, stated:
“This monument — which must be removed immediately — attempts to undermine religious freedom for many residents. In Illinois, we do not permit local politicians to use the power of their office to promote their religious views.”
Pastor Lynn Neal, a lead plaintiff in the suit, added:
“As a minister, I object to my government co-opting my religious beliefs for improper political purposes, usurping my role as a religious leader by promoting an officially preferred version of the Ten Commandments.”
What the Lawsuit Seeks
The plaintiffs are requesting declaratory relief, including:
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Immediate removal of the monument
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A ban on the use of public funds for future religious displays
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Enforcement of church-state separation in Illinois government
As of this report, neither the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners nor Sheriff Bullard has responded to media inquiries.
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“I’m really confused — are there people who want things both ways? Our money says ‘In God We Trust,’ and our pledge of allegiance says ‘one nation under God.’ These lawsuits are tearing at the very fabric that binds us as one nation. What’s next — banning the Bible?”