Homeless Man Used Knife To Rob Dollar Tree In Naperville: Cops

NAPERVILLE, IL — A homeless man is being held in DuPage County jail on $1.5 million bond after police say he used a knife to steal $60 from a Dollar Tree in Naperville after his transaction was declined.

Melvin Lewis, 44, was charged with armed robbery in connection with the Dec. 16 incident.

Police were called to the Dollar Tree at 1550 N. Rte. 59 just before 9 a.m. Thursday for a report of an armed robbery. Prosecutors say Lewis tried to buy some items, but his transaction was not approved. He is accused of then showing the cashier an open silver knife and demanding cash from the register.

Lewis is accused of fleeing the scene after getting $60 from the cashier. Police took Lewis into custody Friday at a hotel nearby.

Related: Man Wields Knife, Robs Dollar Tree In Naperville: Cops

“It is alleged that Mr. Lewis threatened at knifepoint an innocent woman who was trying to make an honest living for sixty dollars," DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin said in a news release.

Berlin added, “This type of brazen behavior will not be tolerated in DuPage County and will be met with the full force of the law, as evidenced by Judge Skarin’s significant bond."

Naperville Police Chief Jason Arres made a statement thanking the officers who worked on the case. Arres said, "Crimes like this are senseless and put our community at risk. We will continue to vigorously investigate crimes such as this and hold those responsible accountable."

Lewis is set to appear in court again Jan. 10