NAPERVILLE, IL — A dramatic cannabis bust occurred in Naperville on Saturday when three police officers were injured while arresting a man carrying meth, cocaine, and nearly 1,000 grams of cannabis, according to a news release from the DuPage County State's Attorney's Office (DCSAO).
Brock Okennard, 45, faces multiple charges, including possession of methamphetamine, possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance — cocaine, manufacture/delivery of cannabis, possession of cannabis, and resisting a peace officer causing injury. Authorities also noted that Okennard had two outstanding warrants at the time of the cannabis bust.
The arrest followed a tip from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which was investigating a drug trafficking suspect arriving on an Amtrak train from California. Officers arrived at the Fourth Avenue depot just before 1:30 p.m. and attempted to take Okennard into custody. He allegedly tried to flee on foot, prompting a scuffle during which both Okennard and three officers were injured and subsequently treated at a local hospital.
Upon searching Okennard's backpack, police discovered 993.7 grams of cannabis and 153.6 grams of a pink powdery substance containing methamphetamine and cocaine. This seizure marks one of the largest cannabis busts in the area this year, highlighting the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in curbing drug trafficking.
“For the second time in a week, my office has filed felony charges against an individual allegedly bringing drugs from California to DuPage County,” said DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin. He emphasized that drug dealers ignore borders between states and communities, and a cannabis bust like this illustrates the importance of state and federal cooperation in holding traffickers accountable.
Naperville Police Chief Jason Arres commended the officers’ bravery. “After being notified by the DEA, our officers responded to the train station to take Mr. Okennard into custody. When he resisted arrest, our officers risked their safety to protect the community, an act of courage that resulted in three officers requiring medical treatment,” Arres said. “This cannabis bust sends a clear message: we will not tolerate anyone attempting to bring harmful substances into our city.”
This incident marks yet another significant cannabis bust in Illinois, underlining law enforcement’s commitment to preventing the distribution of dangerous substances.
As authorities continue targeting drug traffickers, these arrests serve as a warning that any attempt to distribute illegal substances, including cannabis, will be met with swift and decisive action. The recent Naperville cannabis bust also highlights the importance of cooperation between local police, the DEA, and state prosecutors to maintain community safety.
With nearly a kilogram of cannabis seized alongside meth and cocaine, this event is a prime example of the risks posed by drug trafficking and the vital role of law enforcement in conducting a cannabis bust to protect the public.