Accused Retail Thief Leads Orland Hills Cops on High Speed Chase

Photo: Stephano Ceniti, 34, of Orland Hills | Cook County Sheriff

A man led police in a high speed pursuit through Saturday afternoon traffic after he stole $109 worth of merchandise from an Orland Hills Walmart, prosecutors said in court Monday.

Stephano Ceniti, 34, of Orland Hills, appeared before Cook County Judge Peter Felice on charges of retail theft, aggravated fleeing and eluding, and aggravated battery to a police officer.

Prosecutors said that Ceniti was observed concealing $109 worth of merchandise at the Walmart Supercenter, 9245 159th St., Orland Hills, around 4:05 p.m. August 1.

When confronted by loss prevention agents, Ceniti reportedly fled in his car leading Orland Hills police on a high speed chase down 159th Street with lights and sirens activated.

Prosecutors said that Ceniti continued to evade police blowing through three red lights and a stop sign in a high traffic area, with no regard for pedestrian safety.

As Orland Hills police ordered Ceniti to stop, he came within a few feet of striking officers with his vehicle, according to the charges.

The judge set Ceniti’s bail at $200,000. His next court date is August 24.