Three Suburban Men Accused of Posing as Police En Route to Political Protests

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WHEATON, Ill. (WGN) – Three men from suburban Chicago are facing serious felony charges after allegedly planning to impersonate law enforcement officers at several political protests over the weekend.

Jonathan Capp, 22, from Wheaton, Andrew Knight, 24, from Darien, and Cole Sarros, 26, from Woodridge, have been charged with conspiracy to falsely impersonate a peace officer and unlawful possession of ammunition without a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card.

The trio appeared in DuPage County court on Monday and were released pending trial, as the charges they face are classified as non-detainable offenses.

According to prosecutors, the incident occurred on October 18 around 3:20 p.m. The men allegedly planned to disguise themselves as law enforcement by donning tactical or ballistic vests to attend political protests.

Additionally, the three individuals are accused of possessing 9mm and .223 caliber ammunition without having the necessary FOID cards, which is required for lawful possession.

Court documents say Capp wore a camouflage face mask and carried an airsoft rifle and handgun without orange tips, making them appear to be real firearms.

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin said impersonating officers “erodes public trust” and puts actual law enforcement at risk, especially at political protests.

Elmhurst Police Chief Michael McLean commended officers who noticed the men in tactical gear and intervened before they reached any protest sites.

All three men are scheduled to return to court on Nov. 17.