DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert B. Berlin and Naperville Chief of Police Jason Arres announced today that a Naperville man has been charged with affixing stickers in the shape of a swastika to the campaign signs of then candidate for DuPage County Board Patricia Gustin. On December 9, 2022, Keith Klingeman, 49 (d.o.b. 6/16/1973) of the 400 block of Sheffield Road, was charged with two counts of Hate Crime, Class 4 Felony and one count of Misdemeanor Criminal Damage to Property.

It is alleged that at some point in time between October 2 and October 16, 2022, Klingeman defaced two campaign signs for Gustin with swastika stickers he created with a marker and other stickers. On December 9, 2022, Judge Jeffrey Mackay issued a $50,000 with 10% to apply arrest warrant. Klingeman turned himself in later that day at the Naperville Police Station. He was released from custody after posting the necessary 10%, or $5,000.

“The allegations against Mr. Klingeman are simply despicable,” Berlin said. “Hate crimes have no place in a civilized society. All of us deserve to be treated with dignity and respect and anyone who violates this principle based on race, religion or any other hateful prejudice will be held accountable. I thank the Naperville Police Department for their help in securing charges against Mr. Klingeman. I also thank Assistant State’s Attorney Helen Kapas for her efforts on this case as well.”

“Naperville strives to be an inclusive community that values diversity, and the actions alleged in this case directly conflict with that mission,” Arres said. “This department will continue to vigorously investigate any allegations of hate crimes in this City and hold those responsible for such behavior accountable for their actions. I would like to thank our detectives for their diligent work on this this case as well as DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and his office for their support and collaboration on this case.”

Klingeman’s next court appearance is scheduled for January 9, 2023, in front of Judge Brian Telander.

Members of the public are reminded that this complaint contains only charges and is not proof of the defendant’s guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove his or her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

About Naperville: Located 28 miles west of Chicago, Naperville, Ill., is home to approximately 145,000 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.