Wauconda man admits assaulting police officer

A Wauconda man faces up to 15 years in prison for robbing and assaulting an undercover police officer.

Scott Moran, 19, pleaded guilty Monday to aggravated battery and robbery. He'll be sentenced April 29.

Moran was under surveillance by Schaumburg police last Sept. 19 when he was arrested near Nerge and Plum Grove roads in Roselle.

Authorities said he approached the car of an undercover officer who'd arranged to pay $200 for about a half-ounce of marijuana.

Moran acted as if he was going to hand over a bag of what appeared to be pot, but instead he snatched the cash and ran.

Prosecutors say the officer identified himself and chased Moran, who at one point pulled out what authorities first thought to be a handgun. It turned out to be a pellet gun, which Moran did fire at the officer.

When Moran was caught, he repeatedly struck the officer's face with the metal gun. The attack left the officer bleeding, bruised and in need of 12 stitches.

Schaumburg Sgt. John Nebl said the men continued to fight on the ground until officers finally were able to restrain Moran.

The deal was set up by an intermediary from whom police had purchased drugs previously, Nebl said.

Moran remains free on $45,000 bail.

The maximum penalty for the aggravated battery plea is four to 15 years, while robbery carries up to three to seven years.