Forgetful Oak Lawn Woman Pleads Not Guilty to Carrying Gun into Courthouse

Denise Smith, 47 | Cook County Sheriff

Oak Lawn, IL -- The Oak Lawn woman who is charged with bringing a gun into the Bridgeview Courthouse pleaded not guilty during a court hearing on Thursday.

Denise Smith, 47, was arrested on Feb. 24 after Cook County Sheriff’s deputies found a gun strapped to her ankle in a holster when she went through courthouse security, prosecutors said.

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The gun, a .38 Smith and Wesson, was found to be loaded with five live rounds. Smith was on her way to her son’s trial for a misdemeanor offense and allegedly told police she forget she had the gun on her.

Prosecutors said she did not have a FOID card or conceal carry permit.

Smith appeared Thursday morning before Cook County Judge Michael Kane, who was sitting in for Judge Colleen Hyland.

The Oak Lawn woman entered a plea of not guilty to charges of aggravated use of a firearm on government supported property and unlawful use of weapon.

Judge Kane informed Smith that she needed to appear for all court hearings or her bond could be revoked.

Smith, who is on electronic monitoring, said she understood the consequences.

Her next court hearing is May 19 in Bridgeview. Smith remains free on a $1,000 bond while her case is pending.