Rockford PD Charge 3 Juveniles After Weapon Recovery, K-9 Attack During Pursuit

A Rockford traffic stop escalated into a pursuit that led to multiple juveniles being arrested, and a police K-9 being injured.

Traffic Stop Turns Into Pursuit on Rockford’s West Side

According to a press release from the Rockford Police Department, a routine traffic stop near Gilbert Avenue and Rockwell Street on Tuesday (12/2) ended up in a dangerous chase.

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Investigators report the car crashed into a snowbank minutes after fleeing from Rockford PD SCOPE officers. Then the 3 juvenile males in the vehicle fled the scene, while a 16-year-old female stayed behind.

Officers were able to locate a 17-year-old male quickly and took him into custody, according to the RPD report.

Firearms, THC Vape Pens Recovered

During the investigation, officers recovered two handguns, one unloaded and the other loaded with an extended magazine, as well as 10 THC vape pens.

The female occupant was detained without incident, and with the assistance of K-9 officers, the remaining two 17-year-old males were located after a track through nearby yards.

Juvenile Charges Authorized by State’s Attorney

The Winnebago County State's Attorney's Office authorized multiple charges, including aggravated resisting arrest, aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a firearm with a defaced serial number, possession of ammunition without a valid FOID, fleeing to elude traffic violations, and possession with intent to deliver cannabis.

Two teens were lodged in juvenile detention, and one was released to a guardian.

K-9 Injured After Pit Bull Attack

While tracking the suspects, officers encountered two pit bulls that escaped from a yard and attacked a Rockford Police K-9.

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After unsuccessful attempts to separate the animals, officers shot the dogs. The Rockford Police K-9 underwent surgery and is expected to recover.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Rockford Police at 815-966-2900, submit an anonymous tip via RPDTIP to 847411, or call Rockford Area Crimestoppers at 815-963-7867.