Chicago Man Accused of Stealing $8,000 Worth of Newport Cigarettes in Smash-and-Grab Robberies
A Chicago man, Dontrell Willis, is facing charges for allegedly stealing nearly $8,000 worth of Newport cigarettes in a series of smash-and-grab robberies at North Side Walgreens stores. Willis, who has a history of tobacco-related offenses, has been linked to eight incidents at various Walgreens locations since July.
Willis’s modus operandi involved vaulting over counters and emptying secured tobacco display cases after clerks unlocked them. His most recent arrest took place in Lincoln Park on December 10, where he allegedly stole $745 worth of tobacco products from a Walgreens store on Armitage Avenue.
Surveillance footage captured Willis jumping the counter and grabbing a large quantity of Newports before fleeing the scene. Following his arrest, Willis was released on electronic monitoring, only to be connected to a string of similar incidents at other Walgreens stores.
Prosecutors have charged Willis with seven additional felony retail theft counts and one count of robbery. The robberies spanned from July to December, with Willis targeting the same locations multiple times. In one instance, he allegedly struck a cashier’s hand and used force, resulting in the robbery charge.
Due to the nature of the crimes and the “takeover-style tactics” employed by Willis, prosecutors requested that he be detained pending trial. Judge James Costello granted the request, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges.
Willis’s history of tobacco-related offenses and the brazen nature of his recent alleged crimes have raised concerns within the community. The authorities are working to ensure that he faces justice for his actions and that the affected businesses receive restitution.
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