Ford Heights, IL – An 18-year-old from Sauk Village was taken into custody Friday night after investigators allegedly found a loaded firearm during a traffic stop in Ford Heights, according to the Cook County Sheriff’s Office.
According to officials, the stop occurred around 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 3 in the 1600 block of East Lincoln Highway. Sheriff’s Police Organized Crime Division investigators reportedly pulled over a red Nissan for having only one working headlight and expired registration. Deputies said the driver also had a revoked license, and the vehicle was set to be towed.
Investigators asked the passenger—identified by authorities as 18-year-old Christopher Burkley—to step out of the vehicle. While patting him down, deputies allegedly found a loaded handgun in his waistband, according to the sheriff’s office. Officials said Burkley did not have a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card or concealed carry license, which is required to lawfully possess or carry a firearm in Illinois.
Burkley was taken into custody and later ordered held at Cook County Jail following his initial court appearance on Nov. 4 at the Markham Courthouse. He is charged with felony aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon.
Authorities emphasized that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Residents near the area reported seeing increased squad presence Friday night along the Lincoln Highway corridor. Anyone with additional information about the incident can contact the Cook County Sheriff’s Office.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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