In a recent incident in the Chicago suburbs, a man has been charged with shooting at U.S. Postal Inspectors during a pursuit for an armed robber. Shockingly, this man was already under electronic monitoring for possessing a machine gun just a few weeks prior, as per court records.
On December 18, it was revealed in court that 19-year-old Jesus Santillan was found with two firearms, including one with a full-auto switch, in his possession when he fled from a stolen vehicle in Bridgeview. Despite the prosecution’s request for detention, Judge John Fairman allowed Santillan to go home with an electronic monitoring curfew.
The incident unfolded when a mail carrier in Harvey was robbed at gunpoint by a man demanding her belongings and access to her postal vehicle while she was on her route near 158th Street and Union Avenue. Following the robbery, postal inspectors approached three individuals near an alley, leading to Santillan allegedly firing shots at the inspectors before being apprehended.
Upon searching a nearby residence, postal inspectors found stolen mail, firearms, and the suspected robber, 18-year-old Ahmel Holmes. A draft text message found on Holmes’ phone provided further incriminating evidence related to the incident.
Machine guns a growing problem
Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke recently announced a crackdown on individuals possessing machine guns, aiming to seek detention petitions for such cases. However, the effectiveness of this initiative relies on judicial approval, as demonstrated by Santillan’s case.
The prevalence of illegally modified Glock handguns, capable of automatic fire with aftermarket devices like the “Glock switch,” has become a concerning trend. In 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized a significant number of these devices, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to combat the proliferation of illegal firearms.
It is crucial for law enforcement agencies and legal authorities to work in tandem to address the growing threat posed by individuals in possession of illegal firearms, especially machine guns, to ensure the safety and security of communities.
