Illinois Man Runs From Cedar Lake Police Monday Morning
On Monday, December 9th, 2024 at about 6:48 AM Cedar Lake Officer Sabrina Stolarz conducted a traffic stop in the 11700 block of Wicker Ave after following a school bus and observing a black 2019 Chevrolet Equinox disregard the school bus stop arm in the 11900 block of Wicker Ave, according to a press release.
The driver, Devonte J. Gilbert a Black male age 31 from Country Club Hills, Illinois refused to exit the vehicle after a strong odor of marijuana was observed. Officer S. Stolarz radioed for assistance when Devonte refused to cooperate. Devonte was given multiple opportunities to exit the vehicle by Sgt. W. Fisher and Deputy Chief C. Brittingham who then put the vehicle in gear and drove off from the traffic stop north on Wicker Ave.
A pursuit began which went into St. John and then into Schererville. Stop sticks were deployed by St. John Police which caused Devonte to make a U-turn and head back south into St. John. Stop sticks were again deployed by St. John Police which successfully deflated the front
passenger side tire of Devonte’s vehicle. Devonte then turned into a private business lot in the 10200 block of Wicker Ave and exited his vehicle. After a short foot pursuit involving Cedar Lake Police, St. John Police, Schererville Police, and Dyer Police Devonte was taken into custody.
A vehicle search revealed what is believed to be marijuana, along with other suspected illegal controlled substances. A holster and gun cleaning kit were located, however, no gun. A metal detector was used to search the area where Devonte ran and was arrested, at which time a 9mm semi-auto handgun loaded with 13 rounds and an extra 10-round magazine were found. This area was a swampy area with thick brush.
Devonte was taken and lodged in the Lake County Jail, charges will be filed on Devonte related to the suspected marijuana, other drug-related charges, possession of the firearm, and resisting using a vehicle and on foot. Devonte will also be charged with failure to stop for the school bus while loading, along with several traffic infractions.
Cedar Lake Police thanked St. John, Schererville, Dyer and Lake County Police for their assistance in this case.
