Four Chicago residents are facing charges following two unrelated burglary incidents at Oakbrook Center stores, authorities reported. The individuals, identified as Talia Martinez-Pacheco, 23, Santiago Rojas-Galea, 18, Cheryl Gryer, 26, and Daiveon Watson, 21, were charged with one count of burglary, a Class 2 felony, and one count of retail theft, a Class 3 felony, according to statements from the DuPage County.
It is alleged that on the evening of Aug. 21, Martinez-Pacheco and Rojas-Galea entered Macy’s and stole clothing valued at approximately $2,378.87, while Gryer and Watson reportedly took items worth $834.74 from Nordstrom. These charges come amid assurances from DuPage County officials that any attempts at retail theft will be met with strong legal repercussions. "As evidenced by these recent arrests, law enforcement in DuPage County remains on the lookout for anyone who would attempt to steal from any of our retail establishments," State’s Attorney Robert Berlin remarked, as reported by the DuPage County News.
Following the investigation into the incidents, all four defendants were arrested without further incident. Berlin emphasized the potential consequences for these alleged actions, stating, "Make no mistake, if you are caught stealing in DuPage County, you will be arrested, charged and prosecuted." The public official added that those found guilty could face up to a seven-year sentence in the Illinois Department of Corrections, as per DuPage County.
The Oak Brook Police Department has echoed the sentiment of diligence and vigilance. Chief Brian Strockis, underscoring the efficacy of their efforts to protect the community and partnerships with loss prevention teams, said, "These two cases exemplify the Oak Brook Police Department's commitment to keeping our community safe." Strockis extended gratitude to both his officers for their work and the State’s Attorney's office for their support in bringing charges against the defendants. Further details confirming the next court dates indicate that arraignments for Martinez-Pacheco and Rojas-Galea are set for September 16, while Gryer and Watson's arraignment is scheduled for September 9, as detailed by DuPage County.
