Judge denies pre-trial release for Glendale Heights man accused of DUI and fleeing police
A DuPage County judge denied pre-trial release on Mar. 28 for Dillon Burgett, a Glendale Heights resident accused of driving under the influence and leading police on a high-speed chase while riding a moped. Burgett, age 34, faces two counts of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer, two counts of misdemeanor DUI, as well as several traffic offenses including improper lane usage and operating without a valid driver’s license.
The case draws attention to public safety concerns related to impaired driving and attempts to evade law enforcement in DuPage County. Officials say such actions endanger both officers and the public.
Authorities allege that early on March 27, Burgett became belligerent at a Circle K gas station in Bloomingdale before fleeing from an officer’s commands on his moped. Police say he ran a red light at Army Trail Road and Swift Road, entered I-355 southbound reaching speeds up to 85 miles per hour, then exited onto North Avenue where he continued weaving through traffic before crashing into another vehicle after losing control. His blood alcohol content was reportedly .206 when taken into custody.
“In DuPage County, we have no tolerance for anyone who ignores officers’ commands to pull over and instead attempts to flee, putting the officers involved and the public at risk,” Robert Berlin said. “What I find particularly troubling in this case are the allegations that Mr. Burgett led authorities on a dangerous high-speed chase on a major expressway while illegally operating a moped and drunk. I want to remind motorists that in DuPage County we are committed to putting an end to this epidemic of fleeing the police. Do not attempt to outrun the police as you will not be successful and will only make matters worse for yourself. I thank the Bloomingdale Police Department for their efforts in the safe apprehension of the defendant in this case and for their continued efforts in keeping our roads safe for everyone. I also thank Assistant State’s Attorneys Michael Pingaj and Kevin Kosman for their efforts in securing charges against Mr. Burgett.”
“The Bloomingdale Police Department and others will take appropriate measures to apprehend offenders - no matter the mode of transportation,” Frank Giammarese said. “We are grateful that the alleged offender, law enforcement nor any citizens were injured during this senseless act and thank State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and his team for filing the appropriate charges and their ongoing support of law enforcement.”
Burgett is scheduled next to appear before Judge Mia McPherson on May 4.
In other county news unrelated to this incident: The average student-to-teacher ratio across DuPage County schools was 13-to-1 during the 2022-23 academic year with more than 142,000 students enrolled according to state education data. Teacher absenteeism stood at nearly 38 percent countywide—higher than Illinois’ average—according to state reports. Among local schools: York Community High School had the highest enrollment of white students (1,844), Metea Valley High School had most multiracial students (162), Westmore Elementary recorded top Pacific Islander enrollment (10), while Addison Trail High School saw highest Hispanic student numbers (1,259), all according to state records.
Officials remind residents that criminal complaints contain only charges; defendants remain presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.