Suspected shoplifter Donald L. Johnson may not have made headlines had his alleged shoplifting not gone so horribly wrong, as reported by the Chicago Tribune. The incident began at a Dominick's Food Store at 215 S. Route 83, where he was suspected of stealing several bottles of liquor.
The 32-year-old's long list of charges includes retail theft, aggravated battery of a police officer, criminal damage to state supported property, driving with a suspended license, aggravated fleeing and eluding, driving without insurance and resisting arrest.
Needless to say, Donald Johnson's Chicago criminal attorney will have his hands full with this case.
Elmhurst police said they responded to a report of retail theft at the food store at about 7:16 p.m. last Thursday. The suspect reportedly walked back into the store (hence, returning to the scene of the crime) and fought with police when they tried to take him into custody.
He broke free from the officers, got into his car and turned the ignition as police struggled to stop him. The car started, he drove forward and allegedly struck one of the officers, dragging him through the parking lot. That triggered a high-speed chase involving Elmhurst police and officers from other jurisdictions.
Donald Johnson's car was involved in an accident in the Fuller Park neighborhood and he finally was taken into custody. Two people were hurt in the accident but Chicago Fire spokesman Richard Rosado said they were in good condition.
The officer who was dragged for about 30 yards was not seriously injured, reportedly suffering "severe road rash," Assistant State's Attorney Jeffrey Muntz told reporters. Donald Johnson reportedly suffered no visible injuries.
If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison.
Related Resources:
- Assault and Battery (LawBrain)
- Florida Woman Wears Public Apology Sign for Hitting Cop (FindLaw's Legally Weird Blog)
- Consult with a Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney (FindLaw)
