Briefs: Robber admits guilt

A Glen Ellyn man admitted Friday taking part in two brazen armed robberies involving Red Bull Energy Drink truck hijackings in DuPage County. Samer Bader, 30, pleaded guilty to four counts of armed robbery for the March 24, 2006, holdup in Elmhurst. Four workers were restrained before the two armed men made off with a truck and 800 cases of the energy drink. He also admitted to aggravated kidnapping for a similar incident March 6, 2006, in Woodridge. Bader faces six to 30 years in prison for each charge when sentenced later this year. Prosecutors are seeking consecutive sentences.

Birkett sues street gang

For the third time, DuPage County State's Attorney Joseph Birkett has filed a lawsuit against reputed members of a street gang accused of wreaking havoc in Addison and West Chicago. The earlier suits, the first of which was filed in 1999, targeted two other specific gangs. Though authorities haven't recouped monetary damages from the defendants, police say the civil action has led to a decrease in gang violence on the streets they patrol. Authorities seek to prohibit the gang members from specific activities, some of which would otherwise be legal, such as gathering together in public. On Sept. 9, authorities served the 26 named defendants with legal notice of the lawsuit. DuPage Circuit Judge Bonnie Wheaton will preside over the latest lawsuit.

Spartan run postponed

The Spartan Athletic Association's 5K run/walk has been postponed until Oct. 28. The rescheduled run will take place at Danada Forest Preserve in Wheaton and proceeds will benefit St. Francis High School, also in Wheaton. The event will begin at 8:50 a.m. with a mile run for youths 12 and younger, followed by the adult run at 9 a.m. Awards will go to the top overall male and female winners in each age category. Winning teams also will receive awards. Registration begins Oct. 1 at www.sfhsnet.org. For details, call (630) 668-5800, ext. 112.