Dupage Policy Journal

A former firefighter from Naperville has been charged with official misconduct and other offenses related to the alleged theft of prescription drugs and a vehicle burglary. DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced that Zachary Volland, 34, faces a five-count complaint. The charges include two counts of official misconduct, one count of burglary, one count of theft from the government, and one count of possession of a controlled substance.

The allegations against Volland stem from an incident on February 10, 2024, where he is accused of entering a parked vehicle at the Naperville Fire Department with the intent to commit theft. Further investigation suggested that between February 1 and February 10, 2024, Volland allegedly stole prescription medication from a drug drop box at the department.

“The allegations against Mr. Volland are very serious,” stated Berlin. He emphasized that these accusations are specific to an individual and do not reflect on the Naperville Fire Department as a whole. Berlin acknowledged the cooperation received from both the fire department and police department during the investigation.

Volland surrendered to authorities on March 18, 2024, following an arrest warrant issued by Judge Kishori Tank. He was subsequently released from custody. His arraignment is set for April 15, 2024, before Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh.

It is important to note that these charges are not evidence of guilt. As in all legal proceedings, Volland is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.