In a bizarre incident in Elmhurst, Illinois, a Chicago man, Bennie Gates, aged 19, was apprehended after allegedly committing armed robbery and attempting a daring escape disguised as a woman. The incident unfolded on July 5 when Elmhurst police responded to a report of armed robbery at Berkely and St. Charles Road. According to prosecutors, Gates had initially accepted a ride from the victim for $40 after being picked up from the Chicago Greyhound Bus Station.
Upon reaching Elmhurst Terrace Apartments, Gates reportedly brandished a handgun, demanding his fare back from the victim and instructing him to retrieve his suitcase from the vehicle. Subsequently, Gates fled the scene on foot, heading east on Fellows Court, leaving the victim unharmed but shaken.
Hours later, Elmhurst detectives surveilling an apartment believed Gates was hiding in observed an Uber arriving at the location. A person fitting the description of a female with long hair and a bomber jacket exited the apartment and boarded the Uber. Sensing something amiss, the detective conducted a traffic stop and discovered that the individual was Gates disguised in a wig.
Upon realizing he was being approached by law enforcement, Gates attempted to evade capture, darting across six lanes of traffic before eventually being apprehended in a nearby detached garage. DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin highlighted the serious nature of the crime, emphasizing that Gates’ attempt to disguise himself as a woman was swiftly detected thanks to the vigilant efforts of the Elmhurst Police Department.
Gates now faces one felony count of armed robbery with a firearm. During a recent court appearance, the state successfully argued against his pre-trial release, underscoring the severity of the charges. His next court date is scheduled for July 29, where further legal proceedings will unfold.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of criminal behavior and the swift response required from law enforcement to ensure public safety. Fortunately, thanks to the quick actions of the Elmhurst police, no physical harm came to the victim despite the harrowing experience of being robbed at gunpoint.
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In conclusion, while incidents like these are rare, they underscore the importance of community vigilance and the dedication of law enforcement in swiftly apprehending those who threaten public safety through criminal acts. The case against Bennie Gates will continue to unfold in the judicial system, highlighting the consequences of such reckless actions in society.
