Dupage Policy Journal

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Naperville Chief of Police Jason Arres have announced charges against Florence Twu, a 41-year-old resident of Naperville. Twu is accused of stealing merchandise valued at over $1,600 from the Home Depot on Audrie Lane in Naperville. She appeared in court facing one count of burglary (Class 2 Felony) and one count of retail theft (Class 3 Felony).

Twu was already on pre-trial release for allegedly stealing more than $300 worth of goods from Walmart and Nordstrom Rack stores in Naperville earlier this year. At her recent court appearance, she was released on the new charges as mandated by law. However, following the hearing, a petition to revoke her pre-trial release for the previous case was filed by the State and granted by Judge Mia McPherson.

The incident at Home Depot occurred on October 29, when police responded to a report of retail theft. It is alleged that Twu entered the store, collected over fifty items valued at approximately $1,630 into her backpack and shopping cart, and attempted to leave without payment. Upon confrontation by a loss prevention officer, she abandoned the cart but fled with her backpack to her car where she was apprehended by police.

State’s Attorney Berlin commented on the situation stating: “Judge McPherson’s order to revoke pre-trial release and order Ms. Twu be detained pending trial sends a crystal-clear message that conditions of pre-trail release are not optional.” He emphasized that compliance with court orders is mandatory and violations will lead to detention pending trial if necessary.

Berlin also commended the efforts of the Naperville Police Department in handling this case effectively as well as Assistant State’s Attorneys Anna Derkacz, Adam Frahm, and Michael Pingaj for securing charges against Twu.

Twu's arraignment is scheduled for November 25 before Judge Mia McPherson. The public is reminded that these charges are allegations only; Twu remains presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.