Army Veteran Accused of Threatening Cleaners, Holding Woman Hostage
JOLIET, Ill. — A Joliet man, identified as 46-year-old Erik Aviles, was arrested following a standoff with police on Thursday, January 9, 2025, after he allegedly threatened a cleaning crew with what turned out to be a replica handgun and briefly held a woman hostage. The incident unfolded at Aviles’ residence on the 500 block of Irving Street.
Dispute Over Payment Escalates into Standoff
According to police reports, Aviles had hired a cleaning service through an online platform. The crew arrived at his home around 9:30 a.m. and completed their work approximately three hours later. A dispute arose over the $300 payment for the services, which Aviles allegedly refused to pay. The situation quickly escalated, with Aviles accusing the crew of robbing him.
Witnesses reported that Aviles, who claimed to be an Army sniper and firearms instructor, retrieved what appeared to be a handgun and pointed it at the owner of the cleaning service. The owner’s wife intervened and urged her husband to flee. Aviles then allegedly pulled the woman into the house, holding her against the door with the replica gun pressed against her. She pleaded with him to let her go, mentioning her children, but Aviles reportedly dismissed her pleas.
Police Response and Surrender
After the cleaning crew escaped and contacted authorities, Joliet police responded and established a perimeter around Aviles’ residence. The Joliet Police Special Operations Squad (SWAT) and Crisis Negotiator Team were deployed. Nearby residents were instructed to shelter in place. After negotiations, Aviles surrendered peacefully and was taken into custody. A search of the residence revealed a tactical helmet, vest, backpack, and gas mask, along with the replica firearm.
Charges and Past Legal Issues
Aviles is facing charges of aggravated unlawful restraint and two counts of aggravated assault. He is being held in the Will County Jail. Prosecutors successfully petitioned the court to deny him pretrial release, citing a prior conviction in Cook County for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon involving a similar confrontation with Rent-A-Center employees over a late payment. Additionally, Aviles’ Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card had been revoked due to a previous “clear and present danger” finding.
Conflicting Accounts of the Incident
During police questioning, Aviles offered a different version of events, denying any wrongdoing and claiming he simply complained about the quality of the cleaning. He also denied possessing any firearms, stating that the only gun in the house was a toy belonging to his 12-year-old child. However, police recovered the replica handgun from inside the couch, as described by the cleaning crew.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Joliet Standoff
What led to the standoff with Erik Aviles?
A payment dispute between Aviles and a cleaning crew escalated into a standoff after Aviles allegedly threatened them with a replica handgun.
What charges is Erik Aviles facing?
Aviles is facing charges of aggravated unlawful restraint and two counts of aggravated assault.
Was anyone injured during the incident?
No injuries were reported during the standoff.
What happened to Erik Aviles after he surrendered?
Aviles was taken into custody and is being held in the Will County Jail. He has been denied pretrial release due to a prior conviction and the nature of the incident.
The Aftermath of the Joliet Standoff
The incident involving Erik Aviles highlights the potential dangers of escalating disputes and the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions. His prior record and revoked FOID card raise concerns about his access to weapons and behavior in confrontational situations. The swift response of the Joliet Police Department and the successful negotiation brought the tense situation to a peaceful end, ensuring the safety of the community and those involved.
What Happens Next in the Aviles Case?
- Aviles will undergo legal proceedings, including a trial, to determine his guilt or innocence.
- The investigation may continue to gather further evidence and witness testimonies.
- The court will consider Aviles’ prior conviction and revoked FOID card during sentencing if he is found guilty.