JOLIET, Illinois – Two teenagers charged with the aggravated hijacking of a pregnant woman’s vehicle in Joliet have been denied pretrial release by a Will County judge. Louis Jones, 18, and Dakoda Ulmer, 18, both of Joliet, are facing charges related to the incident that occurred on February 8th. Judge Zachary Pollack determined that their release would pose a danger to others.
Ulmer, who is accused of aggravated battery against the pregnant woman, allegedly pressed a gun against her stomach while she was in the vehicle with her 13-year-old daughter. The court order signed by Pollack cited the potential danger posed by the defendants as the reason for denying their release.
The two teens were arrested by Joliet police officers and subsequent investigations revealed their involvement in other criminal activities. Will County Assistant State’s Attorney Katie Rabenda stated that video evidence showed Jones and Ulmer entering another woman’s vehicle on January 5th, where they allegedly stole multiple gift cards, prescription medication, and other items. They were also recorded on video attempting to break into a truck on February 6th, and checking door handles in a residential area on February 8th.
Jones was already on pretrial release for a separate case involving the possession of a stolen vehicle at the time of the hijacking. He had been indicted for that offense but failed to appear in court, resulting in a warrant for his arrest. However, a court order from Judge Dave Carlson stated that there were no charges in the case that would warrant keeping Jones in jail.
It is worth noting that Judge Pollack is one of the newest members of the judiciary in Will County, along with Shenonda Tisdale. Both judges previously worked as attorneys in the Will County Public Defender’s Office. These appointments were announced by the Illinois Supreme Court in November.
The denial of pretrial release for Jones and Ulmer highlights the seriousness of the charges against them and the potential danger they present to the community. The decision serves as a measure of protection for the victim and the public, ensuring that the defendants remain in custody as they await their trial.