JOLIET, Ill. — A major operation to get dangerous criminals off the streets of Joliet netted 21 arrests in a single day.
Operation Streetsweeper was a joint initiative of local and federal law enforcement agencies that involved weeks of planning. Ultimately, nearly two dozen suspects were taken into police custody on various charges.
“Aggravated battery with a firearm, narcotics delivery, burglary, felony theft, and felony retail theft,” announced Joliet Police Chief Bill Evans.
While the city has seen a decrease in crime in 2024, the operation aimed to address the recent uptick in violent crimes. Among the nearly two dozen suspects taken into custody was a 25-year-old named D’Amonta Barber.
Barber faces charges of aggravated discharge of a firearm and possession of a weapon by a felon. Police said the gun discovered could be tied to a shooting that took place in the 1400 block of North Center in July.
“When arrested, he was found to be in possession of narcotics,” Evans said.
Police also arrested 25-year-old Demetrius Houston Jr. and 20-year-old Donnell Brown.
“Following a brief foot pursuit, both were found to be in possession of a handgun,” Evan said. “Both handguns had been modified with an automatic switch.”
Will County State’s Attorney James Glasgow added, “Those glocks would still be on the street if it were not for this effort.”
The Will County State’s Attorney vowed that his office would promptly and efficiently handle the filing of charges and the issuance of warrants for failure to appear, ensuring those who pose a threat to the community would be held accountable.
Evans echoed the State’s Attorney’s Office sentiments.
“You’ll be located, you’ll be arrested and you’ll be held accountable,” he said.
Police indicated that they plan to continue their operation in the near future.