Court grants pre-trial detention for man accused of violent beating near West Chicago station
Judge Joshua Dieden granted the State’s petition to detain Steven Davis, 43, before trial after he was charged with aggravated battery in a public place and aggravated battery causing great bodily harm, both Class 3 felonies. The announcement was made by DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and West Chicago Chief of Police Colin Fleury on July 21.
According to authorities, on July 19 at approximately 8:40 p.m., West Chicago Police responded to a disturbance near the bridge under Wilson Avenue by the Metra train depot. Officers allegedly observed Davis with blood on his hands and clothing walking away from the scene. They also found an unconscious male lying in rocks under the bridge who had been severely beaten, with blood on his face, eyes shut, and scratch marks on his back. The victim was transported to a local hospital where medical staff determined he suffered a broken rib, two fractured vertebrae, and bleeding around his eyes.
Investigators allege that Davis encountered the victim at some point and began beating him about his body and face. During the assault, it is alleged that Davis yelled “get up, get up” as he kicked the victim while he lay face down. It is further alleged that when the victim got to his knees, Davis struck him in the face causing him to fall again; Davis also allegedly kicked rocks at him.
“Public safety is the cornerstone of my administration, and my office remains steadfast in our commitment to holding violent offenders accountable for their actions,” Berlin said. “Today’s charges against Mr. Davis are very serious and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. While the injuries sustained by the victim in this case are quite severe, it is my sincerest hope that he will make a full and speedy recovery. I commend the West Chicago Police Department for their quick response to the call which led to apprehension of defendant before he could flee... Together we ensure those who threaten safety... are held fully accountable under law.”
Fleury said, “I am incredibly proud of exceptional work displayed by our officers... Their tireless dedication and swift action during this investigation directly protected our community from further harm.”
Davis’ next court appearance is scheduled for August 17 before Judge Mia McPherson. Members of the public are reminded these charges are not proof of guilt; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The average student-to-teacher ratio in DuPage County was 13-to-1 during 2022-23 with over 142,000 students enrolled across county schools; teacher absenteeism rate stood at 38.3%, slightly above Illinois’ average according to the Illinois State Board of Education.