Man accused of attempted murder, shooting Rockford Police K-9, denied pretrial release

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — After refusing to appear in court on Monday, Vernon Frills, 38, the Madison, Wisconsin, man accused of attempted murder of a Rockford Police officer and shooting a K-9, has been denied pretrial release.

According to court records, Frills was scheduled to appear in court again on Wednesday, before Judge Heidi Agustsson.

The State’s Attorney’s Office filed a petition to deny pretrial release, and Frills, through his public defender, Atty. Nick Zimmerman waived the hearing of the petition. A detention order was subsequently filed.

Around 3:50 p.m., on Saturday, April 19th, officers pulled Vernon Frills, 38, over in the 1300 block of East State Street, near the Circle K gas station. He fled on foot from officers, who sent K-9 Andii after him.

Authorities said Frills shot the K-9 soon after, injuring the dog’s paw and shoulder.

Frills faces charges of Attempted Murder of a Police Officer, Unlawful Use of a Weapon by a Felon, Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm at a Police Officer, Armed Violence, Possession of a Controlled Substance (MDMA), Injuring a Police K-9, Obstructing Justice, and an outstanding warrant from Wisconsin.

Wisconsin court records show Frills is a convicted sex offender for repeated acts of sexual assault against the same child, stemming from a 2010 case in Dane County.

His next appearance in Winnebago County Court is set for June 5th.

Police shared an update K9 Andii’s condition on Tuesday, saying, “Despite sustaining injuries in the line of duty, Andii is doing great! Her strength and spirit have been nothing short of amazing. We are so proud of her—and incredibly grateful that her ballistic vest, generously donated by supporters like YOU, played a critical role in protecting her. It truly was a lifesaver, and so is she.”