Palatine man gets 15 years for drug, theft cases

A Palatine man pleaded guilty Thursday in a Rolling Meadows Courtroom to possession of cocaine with intent to deliver, after prosecutors amended the charge from a Special Class X to a Class X felony involving the distribution of between 400 and 900 grams of cocaine (about 1 to 2 lbs).

Efrain Juarez, 24, received 12 years in prison in exchange for his guilty plea. He also received three additional years in prison after pleading guilty to a robbery authorities say he committed while out on bond on the drug charge. The sentences will run consecutively.

Acting on a tip from a confidential informant, officers from the Cook County Sheriff's Police narcotics unit arrested Juarez on Jan. 16 as he left his residence in the 200 block of Parallel St. in Palatine, said Cook County Assistant State's Attorney Mike Gerber. Juarez tried to flee, said Gerber, but was arrested by police who recovered a computer bag containing what they later identified as cocaine.

While out on bond, Juarez snatched the purse of a young woman as she returned to her family's home on June 27, Gerber said.

The victim called her father, who was inside the home. The two drove around and spotted Juarez with the purse.

Juarez, who at the time listed his address as the 100 block of Palatine Road, in Palatine, later admitted his involvement to police, Gerber said.