Teen, 4 Juveniles Accused Of Robbing Naperville Vape Shop

NAPERVILLE, IL — A teen woman and four juveniles have been charged in connection with a robbery that took place at Smoke Arena Vape Shop in Naperville.

Kelis Kirkland, 18, of Bartlett, was charged with robbery, as were four boys, ages 14 through 17. In addition to the robbery charge, each juvenile was charged with burglary and retail theft.

Police say that on Jan. 10 around 8 p.m., three of the boys went into the smoke shop at 1570 W. Ogden Ave. while the other boy held open the store's door.

According to prosecutors, three boys hopped the counter and each filled a bag with merchandise. One of the boys is accused of throwing a bottle of vape liquid at a store clerk who tried to stop them.

Police say the boys fled the scene with $4,400 in merchandise and got into a car Kirkland was driving. Shortly after, the car was stopped by a Naperville Police Officer near the intersection of Jefferson Avenue and River Road.

Officers reported finding three backpacks that had vape-related items inside of them. Kirkland and the juveniles were arrested without incident.

“The allegations that Ms. Kirkland and four juveniles drove to Naperville and violently robbed approximately $4,400 worth of merchandise from a small business are extremely alarming,” DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin said in a statement.

Berlin added, “The quick apprehension of the suspects in this case is a testament to the commitment and professionalism of the Naperville Police Department and should serve as a reminder to anyone thinking of committing a crime in DuPage County that if you do, you will [be] arrested, charged and prosecuted."

Naperville Police Chief Jason Arres praised the responding officers in the incident for their "keen observation and good policework." He added, “I cannot give our officers enough credit for the outstanding work they’re doing on behalf of this city.”

Kirkland is being held in DuPage County Jail and is set to appear in court on Jan. 29. Three of the juveniles are being held, with a court date set for Jan. 16. The fourth juvenile who was charged was released and is scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 22.