Lisle man charged with burglary at school headquarters

A Lisle man has been charged with stealing tools, GPS devices and other items from unlocked vehicles at the Glen Ellyn Elementary District 41 headquarters.

Charles Johnsen, 24, of the 5700 block of Abbey Drive, appeared in DuPage County bond court Wednesday and was held on $100,000 bail.

Prosecutors said Johnsen entered several unlocked vehicles Tuesday at District 41 headquarters, 793 N. Main St., and took items including GPS devices and tools. He also is accused of stealing from a vehicle parked in a nearby residential garage.

Police responded to a report of suspicious activity and arrested Johnsen after a brief foot chase, according to a news release. State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and Glen Ellyn police Chief Philip Norton praised school district staff for contacting authorities and credited officers for a quick arrest.

“We work hard to maintain open relationships with staff from our schools,” Norton said in a statement. “I want to thank the school district employee for not rationalizing the behavior he observed and being comfortable enough to call us.”

Johnsen faces one count each of burglary and residential burglary and would have to post a $10,000 bond to get out of jail. His next court date is May 6 in front of Judge George Bakalis.