Dupage Policy Journal

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Addison Chief of Police Roy Selvik have confirmed that a Bensenville man, Jair Delgado, has been ordered to remain in custody before trial. Delgado faces charges related to an armed carjacking incident at an Addison movie theater. The decision was made by Judge Anne Therieau Hayes following the state's motion.

Delgado, aged 19, is charged with one count of aggravated vehicular hijacking with a firearm and one count of armed robbery with a firearm, both classified as Class X felonies. His co-defendants, two juveniles aged 16 and 17 from Willowbrook and Bensenville respectively, are also detained until their next court appearances. Delgado was already on pre-trial release for a separate charge of aggravated battery in a public place.

The alleged crime occurred on December 29, 2024, when the Addison Police Department responded to reports of an armed carjacking at Marcus Cinema on W. Lake Street. It is reported that three males approached a couple as they exited their vehicle. Two suspects were masked and emerged from a nearby grey Dodge Challenger. They allegedly demanded the man's keys and belongings before driving off in the victims' Infinity and the Dodge.

Police later located the vehicles; however, pursuit was terminated when the Infinity entered I-290 eastbound. The Dodge was found westbound on I-290 near Austin Boulevard. After attempts to box in the vehicle failed initially, officers successfully apprehended the suspects at I-290 and 1st Avenue exit ramp. A search of the Dodge revealed firearms including a Glock handgun modified for automatic fire.

State’s Attorney Berlin emphasized the severity of these allegations: “The alleged armed carjacking... put an entire community on edge.” He commended law enforcement's efforts which led to Delgado facing potential penalties up to forty-five years in prison if convicted.

Addison Police Chief Selvik also praised the cooperation between departments: “This was an incredible effort by the Addison Investigative Division, as well as the Elmhurst Police Department.”

Delgado's next court appearance is set for January 27, 2025, while his juvenile co-defendants will appear on January 9, 2025.

It is important to note that these charges are not proof of guilt; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court.