Rockford, Illinois – A 13-year-old allegedly drove a stolen minivan in Rockford, prompting charges after police pursuit.
According to the Rockford Police Department, SCOPE (Specialized Community Oriented Police Enforcement) officers located a minivan reported stolen out of Sycamore at approximately 6:50 p.m. Wednesday near 20th Street and 23rd Avenue.
Police said the vehicle attempted to flee at a high rate of speed. Officers deployed the StarChase tracking system, allowing authorities to monitor the vehicle remotely. The minivan was tracked to the 3100 block of 12th Avenue, where the driver allegedly exited the vehicle and fled on foot.
After a brief foot chase, officers took the juvenile male into custody, according to police.
Following a review of the case, the Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office authorized charges against the 13-year-old Rockford resident. He was lodged in Juvenile Detention.
The juvenile is charged with:
- Aggravated Fleeing to Elude
- Possession of a Stolen Vehicle
- No Driver’s License
- Resisting Arrest
Police emphasized that the charges are allegations, and the juvenile is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The incident has drawn attention locally due to the suspect’s age, particularly among students and families in the area.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges are possible.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Rockford Police Department at 815-966-2900. Anonymous tips can be submitted by texting “RPDTIP” and the tip to 847411, through the Rockford PD app, or by contacting Rockford Area Crime Stoppers at 815-963-7867.
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