Illinois fugitive who demanded 'sailor costume' on wanted poster surrenders after police share photoshopped image
KANKAKEE COUNTY, ILLINOIS: In a stunning case, a fugitive gave himself up to authorities after they agreed to photoshop a fancy-dress costume to his wanted poster image.
Every week, the Kankakee County Sheriff's Department holds "Warrant Wednesday", when they post about fugitives on their Facebook page, CBS Chicago reports.
25-year-old Brandon W. Conti was wanted this week for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol, according to a post by the department.
In response, Conti brazenly left a comment on the post, asking, "Where's my costume?"
The Sheriff's office staff played along and edited the mugshot with a sailor suit and a hat that read "Ahoy!"
"Done! We held up our end of the bargain," an officer wrote, responding to Conti's request. "Now you do the right thing and 'sail' yourself on in here and turn yourself in. Or, call us, and we'd be happy to provide your transportation!"
"That’s awesome," Conti replied with laughing emoticons. "I’ll be there before noon please have the paperwork done and ready."
And he did hold up his end of the bargain. Later on in the day, Conti turned himself in.
Warrant Wednesdays were started in August 2014 after the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office did not have sufficient staff to go hunting for fugitives, Police Chief Deputy Ken McCabe said.
According to McCabe, the majority of fugitives have failed to appear in court on some offense. However, he claimed the program has a 75 percent success rate.
Having said that, the social media interaction generated quite a buzz in the comments section, with several users commending Conti for "doing the right thing."
"Brandon Conti & the Kankakee Sheriff's social media person for the win, today," one wrote.
"I'm dying!!! County got time for the BS today!!!" another added.
Some others wondered whether Conti did, in fact, turn himself in.
"Sure did, I'm a free man now," the 25-year-old replied, alongside a smiley emoticon.