Dupage Policy Journal

Law enforcement in DuPage County has made recent arrests in connection with high-speed chases that occurred over the Juneteenth holiday. The State's Attorney, Robert Berlin, alongside Oak Brook Chief of Police Brian Strockis and Bloomingdale Director of Public Safety Frank Giammarese, announced efforts to hold accountable those who attempt to flee from police.

Isael Macedo-Mejia, 56, from Chicago, is accused of leading police on a chase after allegedly participating in a retail theft at Macy’s in Oak Brook mall. He faces charges including aggravated fleeing and eluding and retail theft. His court date is set for July 15, 2024.

Kawon Gause, 25, also from Chicago, is charged following a separate incident involving a high-speed chase after an alleged theft at Amazon Fresh in Bloomingdale. Gause's charges include aggravated fleeing and eluding and retail theft. His arraignment is scheduled for July 15, 2024.

State’s Attorney Berlin emphasized the risk such actions pose: “This behavior unnecessarily puts the officers involved and thousands of innocent motorists at great risk and will simply not be tolerated.” He expressed gratitude towards local law enforcement agencies for their cooperation.

Chief Strockis stated: “This is yet another example that if you come to Oak Brook and DuPage County to commit a crime, we will use all of our tools and pursue you to get you in custody.”

Director Giammarese highlighted the dangers posed by fleeing suspects: “Fleeing from the police can easily injure our officers and places motorists in serious danger."

The public is reminded that these charges are not proof of guilt; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.