It’s considered common knowledge that when any crime is committed, it becomes increasingly more difficult to find the culprit as time marches on.

But after 17 months of investigation with literally hundreds of different leads, the DeKalb Police Department and the DeKalb County State’s Attorney office deserve a nod of thanks and appreciation.

Charges of first-degree murder, criminal sexual assault, criminal arson and concealing a homicide were filed Tuesday against former DeKalb resident Brett M. Hooghkirk, 18, for the brutal Sept. 21, 1988 murder of 26-year-old Lisa Garretson.

Hooghkirk graduated from DeKalb High School in 1989 where he was a member of the 22-1 wrestling team that placed second in the Illinois High School Association State Tournament.

Police and the state’s attorney’s office cannot comment on many aspects of the bizarre case because it is pending.

However, DeKalb residents can show their appreciation in their law enforcement agency as a renewed feeling of security and confidence is present in their police department.

And although the trial, as it should be, will determine whether Hooghkirk is guilty or not, those working on the case deserve to be recognized. Not so much because they caught the accused man, although that in itself is outstanding, but because they didn’t give up when others forgot about the crime.

Thanks again, and Congratulations.