An incident involving a 25-year-old man has led to his arrest following allegations of vehicle theft and abduction. Early Friday morning, local authorities received a report from a woman in Oak Park, stating that her car had been taken from her residence on North Kenilworth Avenue. The vehicle was reportedly commandeered by her daughter's former partner, who had the daughter with him at the time.
The situation escalated when the ex-partner, identified as Thomas Kozie, allegedly drove off with the woman after she had gone to retrieve medication for her mother. Authorities were informed that the victim sent distress messages to her family, expressing fear and indicating that Kozie refused to stop or release her. Illinois State Police initiated a pursuit, using technology to track the vehicle's location. About 50 minutes later, law enforcement successfully located and secured the vehicle with the victim inside near Crestwood, approximately 18 miles south of Oak Park.
Kozie faced immediate arrest without resistance. He now stands charged with possession of a stolen vehicle and an out-of-state fugitive warrant related to a prior sexual assault case in Iowa. Despite the ordeal, the victim chose not to press charges or seek legal counsel. This event underscores the importance of community vigilance and swift police response in ensuring public safety and protecting individuals from potential harm.