Police have announced charges against one of six masked suspects who allegedly ransacked a boutique retailer in Barrington, stealing over $100,000 worth of merchandise in December.
The Barrington Police Department responded around 5 a.m. on December 28 to ReStyle Designers of Barrington, 121 South Cook Street, following reports of a disturbance.
Barrington Police Chief David Daigle said a resident living above the business called 911 after hearing multiple males yelling loudly outside and witnessing two vehicles speeding away from the scene.
Officers discovered that the front door of ReStyle Designers had been forced open.
The business owner, who was notified of the incident, responded to the scene and provided officers with surveillance footage that captured a burglary, Daigle said.
ReStyle Designers of Barrington said nearly all of the store’s inventory was stolen, leading to years of hard work and trust “gone in seconds.”
“We are devastated, but we are not giving up. This store has always been about community, and our clients and consignors are more than customers, you are our family,” the store owners said.
“We are grateful to the Barrington Police Department for their prompt response and ongoing assistance,” the store said.
The police department announced the arrest of Jeremiah K. Brown, 21, on Wednesday and said he was charged with burglary, a Class 2 felony, following an investigation.
Detectives identified Brown as being involved in a separate upscale burglary that occurred in Hinsdale in January, police officials said.
Investigators used Flock cameras in Barrington to help identify and track the vehicle used during the burglary.
Detectives also employed “advanced investigative and technological techniques” that helped build a strong case against Brown, police officials said.
Surveillance video captured the entire heist, which occurred when the store was closed and led to $106,760 worth of merchandise being stolen.
Six suspects, wearing all black with masks and gloves, forced entry to the front door of the business.
Alarms could be heard activating in the video as the suspects quickly ransacked the shelves and display cases of products.
The suspects shoveled products into garbage bags and fled the ReStyle Designers of Barrington — all in just one minute.
The store owners said approximately 85% of their inventory was stolen. “Our hearts are broken.”
The business said they have significantly ramped up security following the break-in and were taking every step possible to protect their team, the store and customers.
ReStyle Designers of Barrington is described as a quaint resale boutique with vintage and modern designer apparel, shoes and accessories.
Their social media advertises designer brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Chanel.
Brown has since been released from custody under the Illinois SAFE-T Act after being released from the police station following his charges.
Daigle said detectives are continuing to investigate the case and the other offenders are likely to be charged.
Anyone with information regarding the burglary or the suspects involved is asked to contact Detective Gruenthal at 847-304-3334.