Des Plaines man who barricaded himself in vape shop faces assault charge

A 26-year-old Des Plaines man who barricaded himself in a vape shop early Saturday morning is facing charges of aggravated assault and criminal damage to property.

Both charges are misdemeanors.

Police said Leonard G. Puscasu armed himself with a box cutter and a crowbar, then ordered the lone employee of the store out of the building at about 8:45 a.m.

The employee fled and called authorities.

Police said Puscasu initially refused to leave and the department’s tactical response team was called in, eventually securing Puscasu’s surrender.

He was ultimately cited and released from custody. His next court date is June 1.