Man Accused of Stealing Coach’s Backpack from Inside Oak Forest School during Cheerleading Competition
Accused Thief Identified and Taken into Custody
A 48-year-old man, Michael Witowski, has been charged with one felony count of theft from a school following an alleged incident at Oak Forest High School in the 15200 block of Central Avenue on January 19.
Security Camera Footage Reveals the Suspect
According to police, Witowski was allegedly spotted on security video fleeing from the high school with a backpack that belonged to a coach from another school who was attending the annual Bengal Challenge cheerleading competition at the school. The coach had left her belongings unattended in a classroom, and when authorities were notified about the alleged theft, they reviewed the security camera footage and spotted a person allegedly enter the school, make their way to the classroom, and flee with the stolen backpack.
Community Effort Leads to Arrest
Through the help of administrators at Oak Forest High School, Oak Forest police were able to identify Witowski as a suspect and took him into custody without incident. Oak Forest Police Chief Scott Durano expressed gratitude to the community and the high school for their assistance in the investigation.
“We thank the Oak Forest community and the high school for their assistance in this investigation,” Durano said. “It is through this sort of community effort that we can keep one another safe, and successfully investigate incidents like this one.”
Frequently Asked Questions
* What is the charge against the accused?
+ One felony count of theft from a school
* When did the alleged incident occur?
+ January 19 at Oak Forest High School
* What was stolen?
+ A backpack belonging to a coach from another school
* How was the suspect identified?
+ Through the help of administrators at Oak Forest High School and security camera footage
Conclusion
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community involvement in crime prevention and investigation. The swift identification and arrest of the suspect are a testament to the effective collaboration between law enforcement and the community. As the investigation continues, it is crucial to ensure that justice is served and the victim’s property is recovered.
