Office Overview | Victim Services | Press Room | Community Resources | What's New | Careers | Juvenile Justice | Contact

A baggage handler at Chicago’s Midway Airport has been charged with stealing multiple laptop computers from luggage checked by travelers, according to the Office of Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez.

Salvador Johnson, 44, of Gary, IN has been charged with one count of felony theft and faces up to 5 years if convicted.

According to prosecutors, the investigation began when authorities began receiving numerous reports of thefts of Apple Computers and other laptops on Southwest Airlines. Police were able to identify Johnson as a suspect and found that his work station at the airport was located near a security screening area where computers are inspected. From his work station the defendant could see what types of computers were in specific bags and would then later steal them.

A search of the defendant’s home recovered numerous Apple and other laptops and pawn shop records also showed he had pawned numerous computers.

The defendant’s bond was set at $250,000 by Judge Adam Bourgeois at a hearing this morning at 26th and California. His case was continued to 8/15 for a preliminary hearing.

The public is reminded that charging documents contain allegations that are not evidence of guilt. The defendant is entitled to a fair trial at which the state has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.  

- Back -