Dupage Policy Journal

A Chicago man, currently on probation for two separate cases, has been detained pre-trial following accusations of fleeing from police after allegedly stealing more than $300 worth of alcohol from a Clarendon Hills Jewel grocery store. DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Oak Brook Chief of Police Brian Strockis announced that Judge Bryan Chapman granted the State’s motion to detain Michael Howard, 43, of the 4800 block of Washington Boulevard.

Howard appeared in First Appearance Court this weekend charged with one count of Burglary (Class 2 Felony), two counts of Retail Theft (Class 3 Felony), and one count of Aggravated Fleeing and Eluding a Police Officer (Class 4 Felony). He is currently on probation for stealing twenty-six bottles of liquor from an Elmhurst Jewel-Osco store on March 15, 2024, and for Aggravated Fleeing and Eluding and stealing $837.82 worth of alcohol from a Lombard Mariano’s grocery store on April 17, 2024.

On August 9, at approximately 6:30 p.m., Oak Brook Police officers observed a black Toyota Camry traveling northbound on Route 83 at 16th Street that was allegedly involved in a retail theft from the Clarendon Hills Jewel located at 303 Holmes Avenue. Officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop at Route 83 and St. Charles Road, but the Toyota Camry, allegedly driven by Howard, immediately increased its speed. Officers activated their emergency lights and sirens and began pursuit. It is alleged that during the pursuit, Howard drove in and out of traffic while traveling at approximately 76 mph. The pursuit was terminated due to safety concerns but resumed when Howard was located again on I-290 by Berkeley police officers.

It is further alleged that as Howard attempted to flee again, he drove into oncoming traffic and struck a Lexus head-on. After the crash, Howard allegedly tried to flee on foot but was taken into custody shortly afterward. Authorities reportedly found proceeds from the retail theft inside his vehicle.

According to the State’s Petition to Detain filed against Howard, he “did not believe police should chase him across town boundaries.”

“It is alleged that while on probation for two separate cases involving burglary and retail theft... Mr. Howard was at it again,” Berlin said. “We are all thankful that no one was seriously injured as a result of Mr. Howard’s alleged actions.”

“This arrest illustrates the exceptional working relationship Oak Brook has with surrounding jurisdictions,” Strockis said.

Howard’s next court appearance is scheduled for August 26 for arraignment in front of Judge Mia McPherson.

Members of the public are reminded that this complaint contains only charges and is not proof of the defendant’s guilt.