2 gang members charged for violating court order

Two Elgin gang members have been charged for associating with members of their own gang in violation of a court order, Elgin police said.

Fabian Pena, 19, of the 1300 Block of Todd Farm Drive, and Edgar Maldonado, 19, of the 300 block of Gertrude Street, both members of the Latin Kings, were seen loitering together at the intersection of Bent and Grace streets at 11 p.m. Friday, according to a police report.

Both were issued a civil court order in 2010 under the Illinois Street gang Terrorism Omnibus Prevention Act that prevents gang members from hanging around with other known gang members, officials said.

Upon observing the officers, Pena fled on foot but was located after a short foot chase hiding in the backyard of a house in the 500 block of Raymond Street. He was taken into custody and charged with violating that court order and obstructing a police officer.

Maldonado was arrested at the scene without incident and charged with violating the court order.

“This is yet another example of the diligence with which we will pursue gang crime, using all available tools in an attempt to prevent further incidents from occurring,” Elgin Police Chief Jeff Swoboda said.

Both men have a March 16 court date in Elgin.