Man Accused Of Disarming Cop At Target Store In Woodridge

WOODRIDGE, IL — A 29-year-old man faces multiple felony charges after police say he pulled a taser from a police officer's hand while the officer was trying to place him under arrest for stealing two air mattresses from the Target store in Woodridge.

John Crowder, of Woodridge, has been charged with disarming a peace officer, aggravated battery to a police officer, retail theft, resisting an officer causing injury and criminal damage to government supported property in connection with the Aug. 24 incident.

According to prosecutors, police were called to the Target at 2333 63rd St. for a report of a retail theft. An officer who arrived at the scene reported that he saw Crowder putting two air mattresses in the trunk of a vehicle.

The officer said he started to talk to Crowder and that Crowder kicked his leg and caused him to fall. While the officer was on his back, he tried to draw his taser, but Crowder pulled the taser from his hand and threw it, according to prosecutors.

Crowder is then accused of trying to walk away and ignored the officer when he tried to tell him to stop. Another officer got to the scene and Crowder is accused of ignoring both officers and resisting the when they tried to put him in handcuffs.

He was taken into custody following a brief struggle, prosecutors say.

“Day in and day out, our officers quietly do their jobs protecting the residents and businesses of DuPage County,” DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin said in a statement.

Berlin added, “This incident is yet another example of their professionalism and dedication to public safety. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured."

Woodridge Police Chief Brian Cunningham said, “After being faced with a felony crime in progress, our officer approached the suspect in a calm manner. The subject responded with violence. The officer continued de-escalation efforts to no avail. I'm thankful no one was seriously injured."