Two Chicago men were arrested last week on gun-related charges following a car crash and a foot chase with Skokie police, according to a news release from the department.
Skokie Police attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Harvey Pitts, 22, of the 1600 block of West Juneway Terrace, and containing passenger Leroy Francis, 21, of the 2000 block of West Arthur Avenue, for a traffic violation on April 6, the release states. In an attempt to flee, Pitts lost control of the vehicle and crashed it near Dempster Street and Interstate 94 at about 10 p.m., Skokie police Officer Eric Swaback said. A short foot chase ensued before both Pitts and Francis were apprehended, police said.
Two guns were found inside the vehicle and marijuana was recovered from Pitts, according to the release.
Pitts and Francis were each charged with unlawful possession of a weapon, and obstructing or resisting a peace officer. Pitts was additionally charged with felony aggravated fleeing and eluding, unlawful possession of marijuana and driving while license revoked, in addition to numerous traffic violations. Francis was also charged with a parole violation.
Bond for Pitts was set at $80,000 and bond for Francis at $30,000. Both men are scheduled to appear in court on April 26, according to police.
Lee V. Gaines is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.