A Glimpse Into the Everyday: Naperville's Recent Police Activity

It's always interesting, isn't it, to take a peek behind the curtain at the day-to-day work of our local law enforcement. Here in Naperville, the police force is constantly on the go, addressing all sorts of situations to keep our community safe and sound. Looking back at the first full week of January 2026, the blotter tells a story of varied incidents, from those unexpected roadside encounters to calls for help in quieter neighborhoods.

You know, one recurring theme that often pops up in these reports, sadly, is impaired driving. Take last Friday, January 3rd, for instance. It seems officers were out on patrol and pulled over a vehicle on Ogden Avenue. After some investigation, the driver, a Mr. John K. Miller, 40, from Aurora, was subsequently charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. It’s a stark, almost disheartening reminder, really, of the dangers that can emerge on our roads when someone makes that choice.

Meanwhile, our local businesses, big and small, sometimes find themselves grappling with shoplifters. Over on Route 59, for example, a woman, Ms. Sarah L. Thompson, 28, of Plainfield, found herself in quite a pickle for retail theft on January 5th. She allegedly attempted to make off with some merchandise without paying the proper dues. It’s never a good idea, is it? These incidents, though perhaps minor in the grand scheme, do affect the livelihoods of our local stores.

Then there are the more sensitive calls, often happening behind closed doors. A domestic battery incident was reported to authorities on January 4th at a residence in the 1600 block of Country Lakes Drive. Following their response, Mr. Robert J. Evans, 35, from Naperville, was arrested and subsequently charged in connection with that particular incident. These situations, frankly, are always tough for everyone involved, highlighting the complex challenges our officers face daily.

And sometimes, a seemingly routine traffic stop can, believe it or not, unearth quite a bit more. On January 6th, near the intersection of Washington Street and Royce Road, officers initiated a stop for a minor traffic infraction. During the interaction, it came to light that the passenger, Ms. Emily C. White, 22, of Oswego, had an outstanding warrant for her arrest. As if that weren't enough, further investigation led to her also being charged with unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. It just goes to show you, doesn't it, how quickly a simple pull-over can escalate into something much more involved.

So, as you can see, our Naperville police officers are continuously engaged, dealing with a broad spectrum of situations to ensure our community remains a safe place to live, work, and visit. These reports, while just snapshots, truly underscore their constant vigilance and dedication.