Beecher, Illinois – A suspect in a gas station robbery was apprehended with the aid of advanced drone technology, marking a significant breakthrough in local law enforcement techniques.
According to police reports the incident unfolded Saturday when Michael C. Dennis, 51, allegedly committed an armed robbery at a Circle K gas station on Dixie Highway. Following the incident, a manhunt ensued, involving officers from Beecher, Crete, Monee, Park Forest, Steger, South Chicago Heights, and Will County Sheriff’s Police.
Dennis evaded initial capture but was later spotted engaging in suspicious activity in Steger. After a series of pursuits and a dramatic hijacking attempt, he was finally located hiding in a wooded area by a Park Forest Police-operated drone equipped with a thermal imaging camera.
Facing multiple charges, including aggravated robbery, Dennis’ apprehension underscores the effectiveness of inter-departmental cooperation and technological advancement in tackling crime. He is currently held at the Will County Adult Detention Facility, awaiting a preliminary hearing at the Will County Courthouse.