A man accused of leading Oak Brook police on a high-speed chase has been detained pre-trial, as ordered by Judge Joshua Dieden. Fernando Poblete Lopez, of Round Lake Beach, faces several charges including possession of methamphetamine, illegal possession of a firearm, and aggravated fleeing. The charges stem from a December 2 incident where Poblete Lopez allegedly sped away from a police traffic stop, reaching speeds up to 91 mph and discarding methamphetamine during a subsequent foot pursuit.
According to DuPage County State's Attorney's Office, the chase began when an unmarked police vehicle attempted to stop Poblete Lopez's black Ford Explorer for an improper lane change and a tinted windshield. It is alleged that Poblete Lopez fled, endangering other motorists on roads congested by holiday shoppers. A loaded 9mm Sig Sauer handgun with a defaced serial number was found in his vehicle by authorities.
"The allegations that Mr. Poblete Lopez fled from police at a high rate of speed on an extremely busy road in the midst of the holiday shopping season are outrageous," was the statement issued by State's Attorney Robert Berlin. He praised the Oak Brook Police Department for their effective response. "Mr. Poblete Lopez’s alleged actions did not cause injury to any innocent pedestrians or motorists," he added, expressing relief in the absence of additional harm.
Oak Brook Chief of Police, Brian Strockis, commended the coordinated effort of law enforcement, stating, "Our officers are steadfast in our efforts to keep this community safe." Further emphasizing the commitment of Oak Brook to public safety, Strockis affirmed that dangerous individuals like Poblete Lopez would face consequences for their actions.
The next court appearance for Poblete Lopez is scheduled for December 23, 2024. As per legal standards, the charges against him stand as allegations, not proof of guilt. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
