Prosecutors: Chicago man tried to steal vehicles from Hoffman Estates site

A Chicago man who prosecutors say was one of six people who entered a Hoffman Estates automobile auction site and attempted to steal vehicles was ordered held on $50,000 bail and must submit to electronic monitoring if he posts bond.

Vernon Bush, 30, was charged last week with aggravated possession of a stolen motor vehicle, possession of a stolen motor vehicle and burglary in a case that occurred last year.

On Feb. 3, 2020, Vernon and five other people arrived at the lot together in a silver vehicle and cut through a chain-link fence, said Assistant Cook County State's Attorney Ruben Herrera. Once inside the lot, the six individuals entered six other vehicles located on the lot, Herrera said. One of the individuals later identified as Bush got in a Jeep Wrangler, started it and attempted to ram the gate but was unable to break through, Herrera said. Bush ran back to the silver vehicle, and all six fled, Herrera said.

Earlier this month, DNA found in the Jeep Wrangler was identified as belonging to Bush, who has two charges pending for possession of a stolen motor vehicle, Herrera said.

His background includes convictions for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful use of a weapon, Herrera said.

Bush next appears in court on June 4.