Crime & Safety
Kane County, IL Drug Bust: $200K Cocaine Case Ends in Conviction
Kane County, IL – A Wisconsin man faces up to 60 years in prison following his conviction in a major cocaine trafficking case involving approximately $200,000 worth of drugs discovered during a traffi
By Natalie Rhodes · 2026-10-29T15:50:52.358Z
Kane County, IL – A Wisconsin man faces up to 60 years in prison following his conviction in a major cocaine trafficking case involving approximately $200,000 worth of drugs discovered during a traffic stop on Interstate 90.
According to the Kane County State's Attorney's Office, Juan C. Cruz Aceves was found guilty Oct. 23, 2026, of unlawful possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, a Class X felony, and unlawful possession of a controlled substance, a Class 1 felony.
The case began May 24, 2021, when an Illinois State Police trooper stopped Cruz Aceves for speeding westbound on I 90 near mile marker 44.25.
During the stop, the trooper determined that Cruz Aceves lacked a valid driver's license and vehicle insurance. His vehicle was subsequently towed.
While conducting an inventory of the vehicle, officers discovered a backpack containing approximately 2.4 kilograms of cocaine. Authorities said the drugs were packaged in two brick style bundles wrapped in black tape and plastic.
The estimated street value was approximately $200,000.
Prosecutors Hillary Sadler and Jake Matekaitis presented the case during a three day bench trial.
Cruz Aceves, who had waived his right to a jury trial, failed to appear in court. Judge Tegeler revoked his bail and issued an arrest warrant.
Despite his absence, the court found him guilty.
Sadler thanked Illinois State Police, the Kane County Sheriff's Office and Aurora Police Department for their assistance in the investigation and prosecution.
"The defendant chose to absent himself from the trial, but he will not evade the consequences of his illegal activity," Sadler said.
Cruz Aceves is scheduled for sentencing Dec. 18, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the Kane County Judicial Center.
He faces 15 to 60 years in prison , and the court may proceed with sentencing even if he fails to appear.