BLOOMINGTON - An online petition critical of McLean County Judge James Souk was gaining support Tuesday as supporters of two slain LeRoy boys questioned how the children were allowed unsupervised visits with their father. | Did court system fail Amy Leichtenberg? | Text of mother's statement

The bodies of Duncan and Jack Connolly were found in the back seat of their father's car Sunday in a remote spot in Putnam County. The body of their father, Michael Connolly, was found about 60 yards away.

Connolly did not return the boys after a weekend visit scheduled to end at 6 p.m. March 8.

As details of the divorce, custody and visitation issues between Connolly and the children's mother Amy Leichtenberg have been revealed, people have questioned why Connolly, a man with a history of mental illness, was given unsupervised visits with his sons.

In a statement issued after the bodies were found, Leichtenberg complained that the courts failed her by ignoring her concerns about her ex-husband.

The online petition asks that Souk "be held accountable for his contribution to the murders of Duncan and Jack Leichtenberg, formerly known as Duncan and Jack Connolly."

The mother's lawyer, Helen Ogar, told The Pantagraph Tuesday she has petitioned the court to legally change the children's last names to Leichtenberg, their mother's maiden name. The boys' obituary lists their last name as Leichtenberg.

Petition supporters are calling for Souk's resignation.

"We believe you are as guilty as Michael Connolly and without your judgment these boys would still be alive," said the petition directed at Souk.

Souk approved unsupervised visitation in November over the objections of Leichtenberg and her attorney. A report from a psychiatrist concluded that the father was not a threat to himself or others.

The judge has not returned calls for comment.

Elizabeth Robb, chief judge of the 11th Judicial Circuit, said Tuesday that judges are prohibited from commenting on specific cases. Robb expressed condolences to the family and added that tough decisions are made every day in courtrooms.

"Judges strive to apply the law based upon the evidence presented in court. All judges with whom I work strive to do that every day," said the chief judge.

Attorneys who have worked with Souk in the courtroom said they are saddened by the negative comments aimed at the judge.

"I found him to be conscientious, thoughtful and respectful of everyone in the courtroom," said Judy Renner, a former prosecutor who handled child abuse and neglect cases in front of Souk.

According to Renner, it was Souk's practice to review all evidence before making a decision.

"He always was aware of what was presented to him in a court file and reviewed it before making a decision in the best interest of the child," said Renner.

McLean County State's Attorney Bill Yoder said he considers Souk "one of the most caring people I've ever met who cares deeply about people."

The apparent abduction of the children by their father has been difficult for every one involved in the case, said Yoder.

"It's every judge's nightmare," he said.