Creepy Candyman From Joliet Lurks Around Morris: Police

MORRIS — The Morris Police Department issued a Facebook announcement that generated more than 1,500 shares in recent days, advising people to be on the lookout for Joliet 34-year-old Harryl Avery, who is accused of giving candy to children in Morris.

"We had a similar report the day prior when an observant parent reported that they had seen the same subject giving gum to children," the Morris Facebook advisory said. "The children were evaluated by an ambulance, but the suspect was no longer on scene."

According to Morris police, on Wednesday, around 6:20 p.m., the officers were called to the 700 block of Twilight Drive for a man giving candy to children. Parents called 911 and when the officers arrived, an altercation happened between the parents and Avery, and he jumped into his Chevy Camaro and sped off, exceeding 60 mph, Morris police posted.

"Due to the large number of children and residents on foot and in vehicles in this highly residential area, the officer backed off, hoping the suspect would slow down if not being pursued," Morris police noted.

Avery circled the neighborhood once more and then got on Interstate 80 and sped away, police said.

"In researching Avery's Flock history, he had been through several suburbs over the days prior to this incident," Morris police pointed out. "He has been entered into our Hotlist so we will be notified if and when he hits another camera in Morris. In addition, the area has been put on extra patrol."

Morris police announced they are seeking the following criminal charges for Avery: aggravated fleeing and eluding, reckless driving and other traffic violations. He is a 5-foot-9 black man who weighs 150 pounds and dresses in nice clothes which include a blue suit vest, Morris police said.

Morris police went on to say, "While we do not yet have charges for the traffic violations, and he did not commit any crimes at the apartment, his behavior is concerning, and we do not know his intentions and reason to return to that area."

If Avery shows up back in Morris, the police want you to call them at 815-942-2131, extension 8.

Avery's license plates for his black Chevy Camera are EF28818, the police shared.