Prosecutors charged a Chicago man on Thursday of deceptively stealing more than $60,000 from Terrace Cannabis Dispensary in Alton.
The incident prompted the Alton Police Department to remind businesses and residents to “slow down and verify requests involving money transfers, cash pickups, gift cards, or urgent financial demands.”
“If something feels unusual, stop and independently verify the request using known contact information,” an APD statement said. “Involve a trusted family member, friend, supervisor, or law enforcement before taking action.”
On May 7, the 23-year-old suspect was charged in Madison County Circuit Court with theft, a Class 2 felony.
The Alton Police Department presented their case.
According to court filings, on Jan. 3, the suspect got more than $10,000 in cash by persuading employees “that the business owed an outstanding bill” and persuaded them to give him the money.
The suspect was still being sought by the Alton Police Department on Friday, but he was likely to be freed due to the SAFE-T Act.
According to APD records, the investigation began on January 3, 2026, when police responded to Terrace Cannabis Dispensary, 1400 E. Broadway in Alton, for an allegation of theft by deceit.
According to authorities, the case required a “extensive investigation” that included digital evidence evaluation, surveillance analysis, interviews, and investigative trips outside of the region. Investigators also used the City of Alton’s camera and license plate reader network as part of their investigation.
“This investigation required a significant amount of time, coordination, and persistence from our team,” stated Police Chief Jarrett Ford. “Their hard work, along with the assistance of our partner agencies and the use of investigative technology, helped move this case forward and secure charges.”
The Evergreen Park Police Department, the Illinois State Police Statewide Terrorism and Intelligence Center, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Chicago Field Office, US Customs and Border Protection, and the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office are all involved in the investigation.
Anyone with information on the case is requested to call the APD at (618) 463-3505.
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