Yorkville Alderman Defends Role as Defense Attorney in Ex-Parks Director Case

Attorney Daniel Transier rejects conflict of interest claim by Kendall County prosecutor in representing former Oswegoland Park District executive director Tom Betsinger.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Yorkville City Council Alderman Daniel Transier is refuting claims by Kendall County State's Attorney Eric Weis that Transier's role as Betsinger's defense attorney poses a conflict of interest due to Transier's position overseeing the Yorkville Police Department. Betsinger was charged last July with allegedly attempting to run over a person with his pickup truck in Yorkville and driving under the influence of alcohol. Betsinger later resigned from his position as Oswegoland Park District executive director.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex ethical issues that can arise when public officials also serve as private attorneys, particularly when their clients are accused of crimes that were investigated by the same police department the official oversees. It raises questions about the separation of powers, potential conflicts of interest, and the ability of defendants to receive fair representation.

The details

Transier, who was first elected to the Yorkville City Council in 2019, has represented individuals charged by the Yorkville Police Department in the past. He states he has no direct involvement in the oversight, operations, hiring, firing, discipline, promotions or salary decisions of the Yorkville police. Weis argues Transier's role as an alderman who approves funding and contracts for the police department creates a conflict, as Transier would be cross-examining department employees who are 'financially tied' to him. Transier counters that without evidence of an actual conflict, there is no grounds to disqualify him from representing Betsinger.

  • Betsinger was charged in July 2025 with the alleged incident.
  • Betsinger later resigned from his position with the Oswegoland Park District.
  • A hearing on the case was continued until February 25, 2026 to allow Transier time to file a written response.

The players

Tom Betsinger

Former executive director of the Oswegoland Park District who was charged with allegedly attempting to run over a person with his pickup truck in Yorkville and driving under the influence of alcohol. Betsinger later resigned his position with the park district.

Daniel Transier

Yorkville City Council alderman and attorney representing Betsinger in the criminal case. Transier has previously represented individuals charged by the Yorkville Police Department.

Eric Weis

Kendall County State's Attorney who filed a motion to disqualify Transier from serving as Betsinger's defense attorney, citing a potential conflict of interest.

James Jensen

Current Yorkville Police Chief, whose appointment was approved by Alderman Transier.

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What they’re saying

“We'll have to have an evidentiary hearing in February.”

— Daniel Transier, Yorkville City Council Alderman and Attorney (shawlocal.com)

“Without having evidence of an actual conflict, the probability that continued representation by the defendant's counsel of choice will provide grounds for overturning a conviction does not exist.”

— Daniel Transier, Yorkville City Council Alderman and Attorney (shawlocal.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on February 25, 2026 whether to allow Transier to continue representing Betsinger or to disqualify him due to the potential conflict of interest.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex ethical issues that can arise when public officials also serve as private attorneys, particularly when their clients are accused of crimes investigated by the same police department the official oversees. It raises important questions about the separation of powers, potential conflicts of interest, and the ability of defendants to receive fair representation.