Out of prison one week, man allegedly shot a stranger on the street — then stole a $2,200 jacket the next day

Man Released from Prison Commits Random Shooting and Shoplifting

Exactly one week after being released from prison, Michael Mateus, 64, allegedly committed two serious offenses that landed him back behind bars. Mateus had served time for residential burglary before being released on March 2. However, on March 9, he reportedly shot a passerby in the 5500 block of West North Avenue without any prior interaction. The victim, a 24-year-old man, was simply walking to work when the incident occurred. Mateus fired six shots, striking the victim twice in the leg. Surveillance footage captured the shooting, leading detectives to identify Mateus as the suspect.

The following day, Mateus was arrested for shoplifting a $2,195 jacket from a store in River North. Despite being taken into custody for this offense, he now faces charges of aggravated battery by discharging a firearm and causing great bodily harm in connection with the shooting case. Judge Anthony Calabrese ordered Mateus to be detained, describing the attack as a “random violent act.”

Authorities have revoked Mateus’s parole and returned him to the Illinois Department of Corrections custody. His parole officer positively identified him from surveillance images related to the shooting case. These recent incidents have resulted in Mateus facing two new felony cases, marking a swift return to prison after his recent release.

This case serves as a reminder of the complexities of reintegration into society for individuals with a criminal history. Mateus’s actions have not only led to his own return to prison but have also caused harm to innocent individuals in the community. The consequences of his alleged crimes highlight the importance of rehabilitation and support systems for those transitioning out of incarceration.

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