Local Police Reports

North Shore Cop Allegedly Caught Scamming DUI Defendant Out of Bond Money


CHICAGO–(ENEWSPF)–May 5, 2011.  A Wilmette Police Officer has been charged with deceiving a suspect she arrested into paying her a cash bond even though the man was not required to post bond under the terms of his arrest, according to the Office of Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez.

Diane Grassi, 47, has been charged with one count each of Theft and Official Misconduct. Grassi has worked as a Wilmette Police Officer for 11 years.

According to prosecutors, Grassi arrested the victim for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in the early morning hours of Sept. 29, 2010, and transported him back to the Wilmette Police Station for processing. While completing his paperwork she told the victim he needed to pay her cash to be released on bond.  When the victim said he preferred to spend the night in jail and use his money to get his car out of the impound lot, Grassi allegedly ordered him to pay a cash bond for his release.

The victim complied and was released. Later, while reviewing his paperwork with his attorney, it was discovered that the man had actually been given an individual recognizance bond by Grassi that did not require the posting of any money.

The victim reported the incident to the Wilmette Police Department who contacted the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Professional Standard’s Unit. Grassi surrendered to authorities this morning and appeared at the Criminal Courthouse at 26th and California for her bond hearing. Judge Adam Bourgeois set her bond at $10,000 and continued the case to 5/26.

State’s Attorney Alvarez thanked Chief Brian King and the Wilmette Police Department for their cooperation during the investigation.

The public is reminded that charging documents contain allegations that are not evidence of guilt. The defendant is entitled to a fair trial at which the state has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Source: statesattorney.org

 


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