By Dee Longfellow
For The Elmhurst Independent
On Friday, Nov. 8, the Independent received a release from DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert B. Berlin and Elmhurst Chef of Police Michael Ruth announcing that bond had been set at $100,000 for a Chicago resident who stands accused of burglary to several Elmhurst homes.
Deon Hampton, 28, of Chicago, was charged with residential burglary, a Class 1 Felony, and is currently on parole for residential burglary out of Cook County. Because of his criminal history, Berlin said Hampton was eligible for Class X sentencing which carries a maximum penalty of up to 30 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.
Berlin’s release alleges that from Tuesday, Nov. 5 through Thursday, Nov. 7, Hampton burglarized multiple homes in Elmhurst. On at least two occasions, Hampton is believed to have stolen items while the homeowners were either inside the house or were outdoors working on their gardens and lawns.
Elmhurst police identified Hampton as a suspect during their investigation and found him seated in his vehicle in Bensenville on Thursday, Nov. 7. He was arrested and taken into custody without incident.
“The allegations indicate that during a three-day span, Deon Hampton entered multiple residences, at least two of which were occupied at the time, and stole valuables,” Berlin said. “These allegations are unacceptable and will be met with the full force and effect of the law.
“In addition to allegedly stealing valuables from his victims, Deon Hampton’s actions also victimized the entire community, robbing residents of the feeling of safety and security that their home provides.
“I would like to thank the Elmhurst Police Department for their outstanding work in quickly identifying and apprehending Deon Hampton as a suspect in theses burglaries.”
Elmhurst Police Chief Ruth echoed Berlin’s thoughts.
“I would first and foremost like to thank the residents of Elmhurst for their assistance in this case, including providing to us private video surveillance,” Ruth said. “The apprehension of the suspect is a perfect example of the partnership that exists between the community and police working together to keep our neighborhoods safe.”
Hampton’s next court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 25 when he will be arraigned. The matter remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Elmhurst Police Department at (630) 530-3050.
Members of the public are reminded that these complaints contain only charges and are not proof of the defendant’s guilt.
