Downers Grove, Ill. — A Downers Grove man was arrested twice within 48 hours for stealing from the same Macy’s store, according to the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Eric Hart, 60, was first charged with stealing $300 worth of merchandise, including cologne and a massage gun, from Macy’s at 1 Oakbrook Center in Oak Brook. He was released from custody on Tuesday morning.
However, just hours later, Hart returned to the same store and allegedly stole four boxes of cologne valued at $511. Police spotted Hart outside the store and ordered him to stop, but he fled on foot. During the chase, Hart pulled a clump of hair from an officer and caused cuts and bruises to her knees before he was apprehended.
Hart’s court appearance on Wednesday resulted in five felony charges: burglary, aggravated battery, retail theft, and resisting arrest. Prosecutors filed a motion to revoke his pre-trial release from the first arrest, which a judge approved on Friday.
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin criticized the Safe-T Act, which allowed Hart’s quick release, saying it limits judges’ discretion to detain serious offenders pre-trial.
Oak Brook Police Chief Brian Strockis praised officers for their response and expressed relief no serious injuries occurred. Hart is scheduled to return to court on June 18.
