Chicago Women Face Felony Charges in Suburban Nike Store Theft
Introduction to the Incident
DUPAGE COUNTY, Ill. (WGN) — Three Chicago women are facing felony charges, accused of stealing more than $300 worth of merchandise from a Naperville Nike Well Collective store. One faces an additional charge of fleeing from police.
Details of the Alleged Theft
Authorities allege that Emiaya Shannon, 27, and Shawanda Outlaw, 28, swiped more than 20 pieces of clothing from the store on the 200 block of South Main Street on April 9 and took off in a vehicle driven by 27-year-old Martasia Barney.
(L-R) Martasia Barney, Shawanda Outlaw, Emiaya Shannon
Pursuit and Arrest
Once spotted by a pursuing officer, DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Naperville police Chief Jason Arres say Barney didn’t pull over and instead took off. The trio was trailed by a police helicopter to Chicago where they were taken into custody.
Statement from Authorities
“The apprehension of the defendants in this case sends the simple message to would-be thieves that if you come to DuPage County to steal, we will work together and use every tool available to us, including air support, to arrest, charge and prosecute you," Berlin said. "Retail theft is not a victimless crime and results in lost profits for business owners, lost wages for employees and higher prices for consumers."
Legal Proceedings
All three defendants were released following an initial court appearance with the condition that they not enter any Nike Store.
Their next court appearances were scheduled for May 5 before Judge Mia McPherson.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the determination of law enforcement to combat retail theft, emphasizing that such crimes have broader implications for the community, including economic losses and increased prices. The use of advanced tools like police helicopters underscores the commitment to apprehending those who engage in criminal activities.
FAQs
What were the women accused of?
The three women, Emiaya Shannon, Shawanda Outlaw, and Martasia Barney, were accused of stealing over $300 worth of merchandise from a Nike store in Naperville.
How were they apprehended?
The women were pursued by a police officer and trailed by a police helicopter to Chicago, where they were taken into custody.
What are the conditions of their release?
The defendants were released with the condition that they not enter any Nike Store.
When is their next court appearance?
Their next court appearances are scheduled for May 5 before Judge Mia McPherson.
