Elgin man charged with theft

Leroy J. Perez, 32, of the 100 block of North Gifford Street, was arrested Saturday and charged with retail theft after police said he stole $71.94 worth of merchandise from the gift shop inside Provena St. Joseph Hospital, 77 N. Airlite St.

The items included a sweatshirt, a pair of candles and a pair of small model cars, reports said.

Perez was released on his recognizance and is due to appear in court at 9 a.m. Jan 12 in Elgin.