Police Nab Alleged Bike Thief, Uncover Fencing Operation

Elmhurst police have arrested Joseph Samaritano, 31, of 646 S. State St., Chicago, in connection with a rash of bicycle thefts in the downtown area, particularly at the Metra station.

At noon Aug. 22, officers were performing surveillance at the train station, 128 W. First St., when they reportedly saw Samaritano cut the lock off of a bike and take it. Information provided by him led police to a warehouse in Chicago, where 21 bicycles, many believed to have been stolen from Elmhurst and Villa Park, were recovered.

Also found at the warehouse were numerous car stereos, amplifiers and speakers. All of the thefts are part of a fencing operation in Chicago, police said.

Charges are pending against additional suspects as the investigation continues.

Elmhurst police are asking people who have had their bikes stolen from the downtown area to contact Det. Ken Lafin at (630) 530-3074.

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