Cleaning Man Stole From Special Ed School: Prosecutor

LISLE, IL - Prosecutors and police in Du Page County have accused a cleaning man of stealing thousands of dollars from a school that specializes in therapy and instruction for children and adults with autism and mental disabilities. Bond was set at $50,000 Friday for Kenan Bektasevic, 29, of Chicago. Bektasevic has been charged with theft in connection with two alleged theft incidents at the Giant Steps Autism Organization in Lisle over the past two months.

Du Page County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin said in a news release Friday that Bektasevic worked as a cleaning man for a company that is contracted to clean the day school on Cabot Drive. On Oct. 8, prosecutors and Lisle police allege that Bektasevic was scheduled to work but called in sick, only to on the same day gain access to the facility with his key card and once inside steal a vacuum and envelope filled with cash. On Nov. 4, Bektasevic is accused of wearing a face mask while accessing the building with his key card and stealing a safe that contained approximately $3,500.

“The very idea that someone would steal from an institution that works to improve the quality of life for those with disabilities is extremely disheartening,” Berlin said.

The Lisle Police Department led the investigation, according to Berlin.

“I would like to thank the Lisle Police Department for their work in identifying and apprehending the defendant in this case," he said. "I would also like to thank Assistant State’s Attorneys Jim French and Claudia Fantauzzo for their efforts.”

Bektasevic will appear in court again on Dec. 12, and can post bond before then with 10 percent of the $50,000 amount.

Photo via Du Page County State's Attorney's Office