Chicago man accused of dragging police officer with his SUV after stealing 18 bottles of vodka

A Chicago man was ordered to remain in jail as he awaits his next court date after authorities say he dragged a Woodridge police detective with his SUV after stealing over $600 worth of vodka from a Target.

Deandrae Walker, 36, was charged Wednesday with felony counts of aggravated battery to a police officer, burglary, retail theft, criminal damage to government-supported property, aggravated fleeing and eluding, and resisting a police officer — causing injury.

He also faces multiple misdemeanor charges.

Authorities say that Woodridge detectives on surveillance at the Target at 2333 63rd St. on Tuesday, March 10, observed an individual, later identified as Walker, leave the store with a shopping cart containing 18 bottles of Tito's vodka, valued at $623, without paying.

According to a news release from the DuPage County state’s attorney’s office, Walker was loading the bottles into a Kia SUV when detectives in an unmarked vehicle approached the Kia and identified themselves to him.

As Walker got into the passenger’s side of the Kia, a detective opened the driver’s side door and ordered Walker out. According to authorities, Walker slid over to the driver’s side, told the detective to get out, and tried unsuccessfully to close the door with the detective’s foot in it.

Police say Walker then drove forward a few inches, stopped, and then drove away quickly, sideswiping the detective's SUV and dragging him until he fell to the ground.

Authorities located the Kia a short time later in Berwyn, and Walker was arrested by Forest Park Police Department officers in the 3500 block of West Monroe in Chicago.

The injured officer was taken to a local hospital for medical attention.

Walker’s next court appearance is scheduled for April 6.