A Man Arrested for Punching a Priest in Carjacking Attempt Outside Holy Name Cathedral
An 18-year-old man named Raleigh Ford has been charged with punching a Catholic priest during an attempted carjacking outside Holy Name Cathedral. Surprisingly, this incident occurred just two days after Ford was released on parole for an armed robbery conviction.
During the court hearing, Judge Luciano Panici Jr. expressed his disbelief at Ford’s actions, stating, “Any time he finds the opportunity to jump inside someone’s car to try to steal it, he does.” The judge highlighted the irrational behavior of Ford, especially considering his recent parole status for armed robbery.
According to Assistant State’s Attorney Joseph Sorrentino, the incident took place on May 21 when the priest parked his 2015 Toyota RAV4 in front of the cathedral at 730 North Wabash. Leaving the car unlocked with the keys in the ignition, the priest went inside the church for a brief period.
Upon returning, the priest caught Ford trying to enter the vehicle. A struggle ensued, during which Ford punched the priest and attempted to push him out of the car. However, the priest managed to remove the keys from the ignition, foiling Ford’s carjacking attempt.
Surveillance cameras at the cathedral captured the entire incident, leading to Ford’s identification by three Chicago police officers who had dealt with him previously.
Just five days later, on May 26, Ford was allegedly involved in another incident, this time an aggravated assault. A man reported seeing Ford inside his 2011 Porsche Cayenne and confronting him. Ford fled on foot and reportedly brandished a handgun at the victim. Although no firearm was recovered, a witness corroborated the victim’s account of Ford displaying a weapon.
With a juvenile record that includes armed robbery and stolen vehicle cases, Ford now faces charges of attempted vehicular hijacking, aggravated assault, and criminal trespassing to a vehicle.
Assistant Public Defender Yasmeen Yousif stated that Ford denies the charges and highlighted his role as the primary caretaker for his disabled brother and mother, who recently underwent surgery. Ford is also seeking employment, with an upcoming interview at Amazon.
Despite these circumstances, Judge Panici deemed Ford a “menace to the community” and granted the state’s detention petition.
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