In light of the recent spike in retail theft accross the nation, much of it the result of lax enforcement, DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and local police departments are sending a pretty clear message this Christmas season: Shoplifting won’t be tolerated in DuPage County.
Berlin’s office announced Monday that five individuals have been charged with Burglary/Retail Theft from DuPage county businesses in just the past four days.
Allegations in one case even include the use of an occupied baby stroller to conceal stolen merchandise.
All defendants are charged with one count of Burglary (Class 2 Felony) and one count of Retail Theft (Class 3 Felony). One of the defendants is facing an additional charge of Possession of Burglary Tools, a Class 4 Felony.
“The arrest of these defendants sends the message loud and clear that DuPage County law enforcement is out in full force this holiday season and anyone who steals from one of our establishments will quickly find themselves arrested, charged and prosecuted,” Berlin said.
The most recent arrests include a 37-year-old man from West Chicago who, with two accomplices, is accused of stealing twenty-nine items of clothing valued at approximately $1,458 from Macy’s in Oak Brook lsat Thursday. It is alleged that these defendants placed the stolen merchandise in an occupied infant’s stroller and attempted to leave the store without paying.
The next court appearance for all three defendants is scheduled for January 8, 2024, for arraignment. The State’s motion to detain these three defendants pre-trial was denied by the Court.
“I commend law enforcement throughout the County as well as loss prevention officers at our retail shops for their outstanding, collaborative efforts during the busy holiday shopping season,” Berlin observed. “They have an extremely difficult job and they have truly done yeoman’s work the past few weeks to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday shopping season for our merchants and patrons alike.”
