DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Elmhurst Chief of Police Michael McLean have announced that Judge Joshua Dieden granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Chicago man accused of leading police on a high-speed chase in a stolen car.
Terrance Griggs, 24, appeared in First Appearance Court charged with two counts of aggravated possession of a stolen motor vehicle (Class 1 felony), three counts of aggravated fleeing and eluding (Class 4 felony) and multiple misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses.
On Monday, Oct. 2 at approximately 12:25 p.m., after receiving information regarding a 2017 Lexus RX350 F-Sport that was reported stolen out of Chicago on May 26, the Berkeley Police Department observed the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop at I-290 and York St. in Elmhurst.
Instead of pulling over, the Lexus, later determined to be driven by Griggs, pulled away at a high rate of speed. Officers initiated a pursuit, which reached speeds in excess of 88 mph in a 30 mph-zone along southbound York St. at Lake St. At that point, the Elmhurst Police Department became involved.
During the pursuit, Griggs struck an Elmhurst fire engine causing approximately $7,000-$10,000 in damage as well as a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas. The Lexus came to a stop behind a business in the 500 block of N. Michigan St., at which time Griggs exited the vehicle and fled on foot.
Griggs was taken into custody about 15 minutes later in the 500 block of Willow as he attempted to get into an Uber.
“Cases of motorists fleeing from the police continue to endanger our streets,” Berlin said. “This phenomenon of ignoring the police and putting innocent motorists in harm’s way must stop before someone gets killed.
“I thank the Elmhurst Police Department for their work in apprehending the defendant in this case.”
“The frequent occurrence of reckless drivers using stolen vehicles to flee from police will not be tolerated in Elmhurst,” McLean said. “The Elmhurst Police Department utilized police canines, public safety drones, and mutual aid officers to apprehend Mr. Griggs. We will continue to use all of our resources to apprehend these dangerous offenders and protect our community.”
Griggs’ next court appearance is scheduled Oct. 17 for status in front of Judge Margaret O’Connell.
