Crime & Law

Chicago Tow Truck Driver Charged in Vehicle Theft Conspiracy

A Chicago tow truck driver is accused of helping steal multiple vehicles while he worked for the city’s Department of Streets and Sanitation.

Henry E. Solomon Jr., 48, has been charged by the Illinois Attorney General’s Office with multiple felonies including aggravated possession of a stolen vehicle, vehicle theft conspiracy, official misconduct and conspiracy to commit theft.

“It is especially egregious when an individual charged with working on behalf of the public breaks the law for their own financial gain,” Attorney General Kwame Raoul said in a statement. “I will continue to partner with local law enforcement to hold accountable those who criminally betray the public’s trust.”

According to Raoul’s office, Solomon was working in his official capacity when he provided the locations of vehicles and vehicle registration information to other individuals who ultimately stole those vehicles.

Solomon also allegedly accepted money for providing that information in at least one instance.

In addition to Raoul’s office, the case was also investigated by the Chicago Police Department, which declined to comment on the charges Thursday.

A Streets and Sanitation spokesperson said the department wasn’t previously aware of the allegations and had not received notice of Solomon’s arrest, referring additional questions to Raoul’s office.

“DSS holds its employees to the highest standards of professional conduct,” the spokesperson said in a statement. “We expect all staff to uphold the rules and policies that reflect our values as public servants, and we condemn any actions that undermine the public’s trust in our ability to deliver services to the city.”

Solomon has pleaded not guilty and has an upcoming hearing scheduled for March 12.

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