Dupage Policy Journal

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Elmhurst Chief of Police Michael McLean have announced that Judge Brian Jacobs has granted the state's motion to deny pre-trial release for Davares Kinsey, a convicted felon from Cook County. Kinsey, 33, faces charges including Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Repeat Felony Offender, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon by a Felon, Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Misdemeanor Retail Theft.

The charges stem from an incident on January 10, 2025. Elmhurst police officers were informed about a suspected retail theft involving a 2017 black Chrysler Pacifica. Officers found the vehicle in an Ace Hardware parking lot. After surveillance, Kinsey was observed entering the Chrysler and driving to a Jewel grocery store. It is alleged that he selected items at the store but failed to pay for fourteen items valued at approximately $140 before exiting. Upon his arrest by Elmhurst police officers, an inventory search of the Chrysler allegedly revealed a loaded Smith and Wesson M&P 9mm handgun in the center console. The weapon had been reported stolen from Chicago.

“Mr. Kinsey’s multiple felony convictions prohibit him from ever legally possessing a firearm,” Berlin stated. He praised the Elmhurst Police Department's efforts in taking custody of Kinsey and recovering the stolen firearm. “I commend the Elmhurst Police Department for their work on this case and for their continued efforts in keeping our communities safe," Berlin added.

McLean also expressed gratitude towards his officers and Berlin's office: “Armed felons who come to our community to commit crime will not be tolerated by the hardworking officers of the Elmhurst Police Department.”

Kinsey is scheduled to appear in court again on February 2, 2025, before Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh.

It is important to note that these charges are allegations; Kinsey is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court.