Joliet Criminal Defense Attorney Charged With DUI

LOCKPORT, IL — Chuck Bretz, a high-profile criminal defense attorney in Joliet, has been charged with DUI in Lockport.

An officer was conducting radar speed enforcement at 11:15 p.m. Feb. 14, when he saw a vehicle going 55 mph in a 35 mph zone in the 700 block of North State Street, police said. The officer conducted a traffic stop, and identified Bretz, of Joliet, as the driver.

According to the police report, there were also three passengers in the car.

The officer noted Bretz had bloodshot, glassy eyes, and he could smell alcohol from Bretz's breath, police said. Bretz also admitted to drinking alcohol earlier in the evening, according to police.

The officer asked Bretz to exit the car to speak to him at least eight times, police said, but Bretz refused to exit the car until the officer told him he was under arrest.

Bretz was then taken to the police department for booking and was released after posting bond. Lockport police charged Bretz with DUI, resisting/obstructing an officer and speeding.

According to court documents, a court case was opened Tuesday against Bretz on misdemeanor charges of DUI and speeding. The charge of resisting/obstructing was not listed.

Bretz is being represented by Neil Patel from his law firm, Bretz, Flynn & Associates.