Bond Set at $20,000 for Naperville Woman Accused of Stealing Puppy

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert B. Berlin has announced that bond has been set for a Naperville woman accused of attempting to steal a nine week-old puppy from a Naperville pet store.

Susan Sullivan, 50, of the 0-100 Block of Testa Drive in Naperville appeared in Bond Court Tuesday morning, where Judge Elizabeth Sexton set bond at $20,000 with 10% to apply. Sullivan faces one count of Retail Theft in excess of $300, a Class 4 Felony.

According to the allegations, Sullivan entered Happiness is Pets store located at 1592 E. Ogden Avenue in Naperville at approximately 5:50 p.m. Monday. Store employees say that Sullivan attempted to steal a Puggle (Poodle + Pug) puppy from the store by placing it under her coat and walking out. Sullivan was stopped by the store employees who alerted authorities.

“According to industry experts, retail theft costs United State’s retailers more than $7 billion in 2010,” Berlin said. “Many businesses victimized by retail theft are mom and pop stores trying to keep afloat in these uncertain economic times. If proven guilty, Ms. Sullivan will be held responsible for her alleged attempt to help herself to whatever she wanted, and walk out the door.”

Sullivan’s next court appearance is scheduled for March 5, in front of Judge Robert Kleeman.

Members of the public are reminded that this complaint contains only charges and is not proof of the defendant’s guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove his or her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

*The above media announcement was provided by the DuPage County State's Attorney's Office.