William Lorenz, Pharmacy Looting Conspiracy, Illinois 2024

CHICAGO — In a stunning display of lawlessness amidst civil unrest, William Lorenz, 40, and Ivan Bermudez, 42, have been charged in federal court for their alleged role in looting three pharmacies within the Windy City. Both men face a grueling legal battle as they are accused of conspiracy to commit burglary involving a controlled substance.

Bermudez was apprehended on Tuesday, and is set to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sheila M. Finnegan at 2:30 p.m. today. Lorenz was taken into custody Monday and has already faced his initial court appearance.

United States Attorney John R. Lausch, Jr., DEA Special Agent-in-Charge Robert J. Bell, and Chicago Police Superintendent David Brown stood together to announce the charges, emphasizing the federal government’s resolve in pursuing justice for such heinous acts. The FBI Chicago Field Office played a vital role in the investigation.

Lausch warned, ‘Anyone involved in destructive behavior in Chicago – such as looting pharmacies for controlled substances – should know that federal law enforcement is on their trail.’ He vowed to continue working with partners like the DEA and CPD to hold looters accountable.

The DEA’s Bell highlighted the gravity of the crime, noting, ‘The theft of controlled substance medication from pharmacies results in temporary or permanent closures, disrupting life-saving supplies. The diversion of stolen drugs is a federal crime, increasing the street drug supply and public risk of abuse, addiction, and overdose.’

A criminal complaint details Lorenz and Bermudez’s alleged activities on May 31, 2020, at three Walgreens locations during closed hours due to unrest. In one incident, Lorenz tried but failed to access a pharmacy locker containing Schedule II controlled substances. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty, with the charge punishable by up to ten years in federal prison.

Related Federal Cases