Chicago police busted their second West Side fencing operation within the last two weeks, this latest one with stolen items valued at $125,000 in total.
Officers conducted a search of a West Side residence on Friday. Suspect Claude McKay Jr., 65, of the 5400 block on W. Crystal, was arrested and charged with three misdemeanor counts of theft-control of stolen property and one felony count of possession of a controlled substance.
Officers in the 15th District made the arrest, among the items found were tools, toolboxes and bicycles. Police also fetched two handguns, ammunition and what they suspect is heroin. McKay was scheduled to appear in bond court last Sunday. Police said Friday’s search was a follow-up to one conducted on Jan.17. That bust netted stolen loot valued at $100,000 in total, with items likely stolen from the Near West suburbs as well. Three suspects were arrested and charged in that case.
Austin police had the stolen items from both busts on display at their 15th District headquarters, 5701 W. Madison, where victims could come and identify their items. Loot from Friday’s arrest was on display Sunday and Monday. Residents looking for their stolen merchandise will be required to prove ownership. Police said that any un-recovered items will be sold at a police auction.
CONTACT: tdean@wjinc.com
