Retail Theft Incident Leads to Multiple Charges in Machesney Park

A routine shopping trip turned into a dramatic police response when Deputies were dispatched to a store in Machesney Park following a report of retail theft in progress.

Incident Unfolds in Meijer Parking Lot

According to a press release from the Winnebago County Sheriff's Office, around 6:30 pm on Wednesday (8/21) deputies arrived at the Meijer on West Lane Road to find that the suspect, identified as Angelo Bunkley of Rockford, had been followed out of the store by a concerned citizen.

Bunkley, 25, was seen pushing a cart full of unpaid merchandise toward a black Lexus. As he and the driver of the vehicle, 37-year-old David Saycocie of Rockford attempted to leave the scene, Bunkley brandished an airsoft gun and fired pellets at the caller, though no injuries were reported.

READ MORE: 2 Rockford Men Charged in 2021 Homicide

Shortly thereafter, deputies located the black Lexus in the parking lot of Schnuck’s store. Bunkley and Saycocie were then taken into custody without incident.

Arrests Made and Charges Filed Against 2 Rockford Men

Following a review of the case, the Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office has authorized several charges against the suspects.

Bunkley faces charges of retail theft over $300 and aggravated assault on public property.

Saycocie has been charged with possession of methamphetamine, driving with a suspended/revoked license, obstructing identification, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

It is important to note that the charges against Bunkley and Saycocie are accusations at this stage, and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, according to the Winnebago County Sheriff.