A Naperville man has been arrested and charged with hate crimes after allegedly affixing stickers in the shape of a swastika on the campaign signs of a candidate for the DuPage County Board.
It is alleged that at some point in time between October 2 and October 16, 2022, the 49-year-old suspect defaced two campaign signs for candidate Patricia Gustin with swastika stickers he created with a marker and other stickers.
On December 9, 2022, Judge Jeffrey Mackay issued a $50,000 with 10% to apply arrest warrant. The suspect turned himself in later that day at the Naperville Police Station, and was released from custody after posting the necessary 10%, or $5,000.
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert B. Berlin and Naperville Chief of Police Jason Arres announced today that he suspect has been charged with two counts of Hate Crime, Class 4 Felony and one count of Misdemeanor Criminal Damage to Property.
“The allegations against [the suspect] are simply despicable,” Berlin said. “Hate crimes have no place in a civilized society. All of us deserve to be treated with dignity and respect and anyone who violates this principle based on race, religion or any other hateful prejudice will be held accountable.”
“Naperville strives to be an inclusive community that values diversity, and the actions alleged in this case directly conflict with that mission,” Arres said. “This department will continue to vigorously investigate any allegations of hate crimes in this City and hold those responsible for such behavior accountable for their actions.
The suspect’s next court appearance is scheduled for January 9, 2023, in front of Judge Brian Telander.
