Beating might be linked to previous burglary charges

By Clint Gendusa

Three burglary suspects returned to the scene of the crime Wednesday only to partake in a retaliatory beating of their original victim.

According to the victim, the three suspects stole several books from the victim’s residence in Lincoln Hall on Feb. 6. The victim had seen the men leaving the room with the books, and reported the theft to the police.

The case then was referred to the NIU Judicial Office, but was lost. No action was taken after losing the report.

Then at 12:35 a.m. Wednesday, the three men returned to the victim’s room to perform a revenge-style beating for being charged with the burglary.

It was reported that the victim, after hearing a knock, opened the door thinking it was someone from his floor. When the door opened, the beating started.

The victim was kicked and punched in the head, back and face repeatedly.

Ambulance paramedics treated the victim for a split lip, bruises and other minor abrasions, but found it unnecessary to take him to the hospital.

Alphonso Crawford, 19, of Lincoln Hall, was arrested and charged with mob action, criminal trespass and battery on Thursday for entering the victim’s residence and performing the beating.

The two other suspects involved in the case have yet to be apprehended, according to University Police Detective John Hunter.

“We are still investigating the case at this time and cannot disclose whether this incident had to do with the previous one,” Hunter said.

No other information was available because the police believed that if too much information was given about the case, the suspects still to be apprehended could be tipped off.