Second Suspect Charged in Video Gaming Machine Burglaries

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A second suspect, Antoine Smith, has been charged in a series of burglaries targeting video gaming terminals in the south suburbs of Chicago, including two restaurants in Oak Lawn. Smith is believed to be part of a group of up to eight people who were seen fleeing the scene of a burglary at La Cocina De Mama Restaurant on January 8th. Police say the group targeted the video gaming terminals inside the business, taking cash and damaging the machines.

Why it matters

These burglaries targeting video gaming machines have been an ongoing issue in the south suburbs, with multiple law enforcement agencies working together to investigate the incidents and apprehend the suspects. The crimes have resulted in property damage and financial losses for the affected businesses.

The details

Antoine Smith, 18, was arrested by Summit police in Chicago and charged with attempted burglary. Oak Lawn police also submitted evidence to the Cook County State's Attorney, who approved one class 2 felony count of burglary for the January 8th break-in at La Cocina De Mama. Worth police have also charged Smith for his alleged role in a similar incident in that town. Another 18-year-old suspect, Juelz Johnson, was previously charged with two counts of felony burglary targeting gaming machines at La Cocina De Mama and Hashtag 95.

• On January 8th, police interrupted a burglary in progress at La Cocina De Mama Restaurant.
• On February 5th, there was a break-in at Hashtag 95 restaurant.

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Antoine Smith to be released on bail.