Downers Grove Man Arrested for Insurance Fraud After Allegedly Filing a False Police Report

A lengthy Naperville Police investigation into a report of tools stolen from a vehicle outside a Naperville address in March 2022 ended last month with the arrest of the man who initially filed the theft report. 

Robert J. Sladek, 45, of the 7300 block of Baybury Road in Downers Grove, is charged with two counts of felony theft, two counts of insurance fraud, one count of forgery, and one count of filing a false police report.

Sladek, who lived in Naperville at the time, filed an online theft report with Naperville Police in March 2022, claiming hand tools had been stolen from his vehicle. As police began investigating the theft, detectives learned that Sladek had allegedly submitted and received payouts on insurance claims regarding stolen tools in 2021 and 2022, each exceeding $10,000. Further investigation allegedly revealed that Sladek had never purchased or owned the tools he had claimed were stolen.

Sladek is charged with theft and insurance fraud in each of the alleged fraudulent insurance claims. Additionally, charges of forgery and filing a false police report were approved for allegedly filing a false report and providing a false document to police with the intent of defrauding his insurance agency.

Sladek turned himself into police on March 19, 2024.

“Investigations sometimes lead us in directions we didn’t anticipate. This case is a perfect example of how important it is to have thorough detectives who are willing to dedicate time and energy to a case, leaving no stone unturned in pursuit of the truth,” said Police Chief Jason Arres. “Our detectives are second to none, and I am truly grateful for their diligence to their work and desire to hold people accountable for their actions.”

The Naperville Police wish to remind the public and the news media that a charge is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

Robert J. Sladek

About Naperville: Located 28 miles west of Chicago, Naperville, Ill., is home to approximately 150,000 people. This vibrant, thriving city consistently ranks as a top community in the nation in which to live, raise children and retire. The city is home to acclaimed public and parochial schools, the best public library system in the country, an array of healthcare options and an exceptionally low crime rate. Naperville has ready access to a variety of public transportation, housing and employment options. The city’s diversified employer base features high technology firms, retailers and factories, as well as small and home-based businesses. Residents also enjoy world-class parks, diverse worship options, the opportunity to serve on several City boards and commissions, a thriving downtown shopping and dining area, a renowned outdoor history museum known as Naper Settlement and an active civic community. For more information, please visit our website at www.naperville.il.us.