In a shocking turn of events, a burglary suspect accused of stealing a staggering $68,000 worth of merchandise from a high-end boutique has been released from jail in a Chicago suburb. Terry Johnson, a 30-year-old man who was already on probation for previous charges, was set free on Thursday. The DuPage County State's Attorney's Office made the announcement on Facebook, stating that Johnson had allegedly broken into Kelsey Resale Boutique in Hinsdale, Illinois, on May 24, along with six accomplices.

According to reports, the daring heist took place in the early hours of the morning. Armed with a sledgehammer, the group smashed their way into the boutique at 1:19 a.m. and made off with a variety of luxury purses and other valuable items. In a bid to catch the criminals, investigators combed the scene for evidence, finding blood near the boutique's front door. This vital clue was sent for analysis and, on August 15, a DNA profile consistent with Terry Johnson was identified.

However, it wasn't until September 20 that Johnson was apprehended. Thankfully, the arrest occurred without incident, and he was taken into custody. Surprisingly though, just one day later, he was released. Prosecutors discovered that Johnson is currently on parole for armed robbery and aggravated battery in Cook County, adding to the concern surrounding his release.

DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin expressed his dismay over the situation, arguing that Johnson's release highlights a significant flaw in the newly-passed SAFE-T Act. This legislation eliminates cash bail, and Berlin believes this case exemplifies the repercussions of such a law. Berlin emphasized that judges should have the final decision on pre-trial release, based on the specific circumstances of each case.

Berlin's concerns were echoed by Judge Dieden, who presided over Johnson's case. While acknowledging the flaws in the implementation of the law, the judge was bound by its provisions and had no choice but to order Johnson's release. The SAFE-T Act, which went into effect on Monday, excludes burglary from the list of detainable offenses under a dangerousness standard, unless force was used against another person.

The release of Johnson has left the community and law enforcement officials deeply concerned about public safety. With a history of armed robbery and aggravated battery, Johnson's alleged involvement in a forcible felony, coupled with the ease with which he was released, raises questions about the effectiveness of the new law.

Johnson's next court appearance is scheduled for October 16, leaving many anxiously awaiting the outcome of the case. As the community grapples with this alarming turn of events, it remains to be seen whether this incident will prompt a reevaluation of the SAFE-T Act or lead to further changes in the criminal justice system to ensure the safety and well-being of the public.