Crystal Lake Man Charged with Robbing and Injuring Woman, Off-Duty Officer Tackles Suspect

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Crystal Lake Man Arrested for Robbery and Assault at DuPage County Grocery Store

A Crystal Lake man is facing charges after allegedly robbing a woman and causing her injuries during an incident at a grocery store in DuPage County. Maximus Herman, a 21-year-old resident of Crystal Lake, has been charged with robbery, a Class 2 felony, and misdemeanor battery.

The incident took place on Monday evening at the Shop & Save Market in Downers Grove. The Downers Grove Police Department responded to a report of a robbery at around 5:33 p.m. According to the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office, the suspect, later identified as Maximus Herman, approached the victim while she was shopping with her purse in her shopping cart.

Herman allegedly took the woman’s purse from the cart and fled the store. The victim, determined not to let him get away, followed him outside. A struggle ensued in the parking lot as the victim tried to retrieve her purse. Unfortunately, she fell and bruised her elbow during the altercation. Herman managed to pull the purse away from her and made off with it.

Fortunately, an off-duty Illinois State Police trooper witnessed the incident and immediately sprang into action. He pursued Herman and ultimately tackled him in the parking lot. Downers Grove police officers arrived at the scene and took Herman into custody.

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin expressed his disapproval of Herman’s actions, stating, “It is alleged that Mr. Herman robbed an innocent woman of her purse while she was shopping at a local market. The type of brazen behavior allegedly exhibited by Mr. Herman will not be tolerated in DuPage County.”

Berlin also took the opportunity to remind the public to remain vigilant during the busy holiday shopping season, emphasizing the importance of being aware of one’s surroundings at all times. He commended the Illinois State Trooper for his quick response and willingness to assist a defenseless woman in trouble.

Downers Grove Chief of Police Michael DeVries also praised the state trooper for his heroic actions, acknowledging the risks he took to apprehend the offender.

Maximus Herman appeared in First Appearance Court on Tuesday morning. During the hearing, DuPage County Judge Joshua Dieden granted prosecutors’ petition to deny pre-trial release. Herman is scheduled to appear in court again on December 18.

This incident serves as a reminder for everyone to exercise caution while shopping, particularly during the holiday season. It is essential to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to the authorities..