BLOOMINGTON - Police responding to the report that Duncan and Jack Connolly were missing were aware of problems that existed between the boys' parents, Michael Connelly and Amy Leichtenberg, authorities said. | Mom: Spread fliers on spring break | Download flier (PDF)

Between July 2006 and October 2007, LeRoy police reported 57 alleged violations of the court order prohibiting Connolly from contacting his ex-wife. During a 12-day period in October 2007, Connolly allegedly left 41 phone messages for her.

Five calls to his ex-wife in July 2007 contained three suicidal threats, including two threats made directly to police officers, according to reports.

Connolly's troubled relationship with Leichtenberg, recent financial difficulties and threats of suicide have prompted authorities to express concerns for the safety of the boys.

Problems developed between the couple when they lived in Algonquin, where an order of protection was issued in 2006. Leichtenberg filed for divorce in 2007 after 13 years of marriage.

In February 2008, Connolly was placed on 18 months of conditional discharge and ordered to complete domestic violence counseling after he admitted violating the protection order.

In November, McLean County Judge James Souk granted Connolly unsupervised visits with the boys. A psychiatric evaluation provided to the court indicated Connolly was not a threat to himself or others.

An order of protection was in effect on March 8 when Connolly did not bring the children to the LeRoy Police Department, where a family friend routinely picked them up for their mother.

Police also have disclosed Connolly suffers from depression and recently was laid off from his job with a pharmaceutical firm. His plans for an anticipated tax refund fell through when he learned the money would be applied to delinquent child support, police said.

In late February, Connolly asked for relief from child support payments because of his financial situation.

Anyone with information about the missing boys is asked to call (309) 888-5019 or e-mail jelston@mcleancountyil.gov.