Convicted Felon Found With Loaded Gun Following Domestic Disturbance: Palatine PD

PALATINE, IL — A repeat convicted felon, who was in possession of a loaded handgun, was arrested Thursday following a domestic disturbance. Dewayne A. Skippings, 39, of Palatine, was charged with a felony count of possession of a firearm by a repeat convicted felon, as well as misdemeanor counts of obstructing a peace officer, and possession of cannabis with intent to deliver.

Following a detention hearing Friday, Skippings was ordered to remain in the Cook County Jail until his next court appearance on Dec. 11. The Cook County State's Attorney's Office approved the charges.

According to Palatine police, officers were dispatched to a domestic disturbance at around 4:30 p.m. Thursday. Citizens on scene provided police information about the incident and that Skippings was hiding in the area. Additional police responded to the search, and he was located a short time later.

Police said they recovered his backpack, which contained a loaded .45-caliber handgun with ammunition, cannabis, and drug-packaging materials.

The Palatine Police Department reminds the community that help is available for anyone experiencing domestic violence. Local support is available through the WINGS Program Hotline at 847-221-5680, and confidential national assistance is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).