Ex-husband faces stalking charges in Arlington Heights incident

A Cook County judge set a high bond for a recently released prisoner who police say terrorized his ex-wife Friday in Arlington Heights.

Anton Pettersen, 54, is charged with stalking, criminal trespass to a residence and violation of an order of protection.

Cook County Judge Margarita Kulys Hoffman set bond at $100,000 during a hearing Saturday at the Rolling Meadows courthouse.

Prosecutors allege Pettersen showed up at his former wife's house Friday, despite the fact she had an order of protection in place.

He rang the doorbell at the front and getting no response, went to the back door and broke a window to gain entry, assistant state's attorney Ina Kantor said.

His ex-wife ran up to the bathroom, barricaded herself in and called 911. Pettersen attempted to get into the bathroom but failed, Kantor said.

He was released from custody of the Illinois Department of Corrections Friday. Previous convictions include aggravated assault, driving under the influence of alcohol and telephone harassment.

Kantor said the stalking consisted of contacting his ex-wife by mail.

Pettersen, who suffers from a mental illness, denied trying to communicate with his wife, assistant public defender Marilyn Pallucca said.

The next court date in the case is Monday.