A Richton Park man has been charged with aggravated battery after police say he squirted an unknown liquid on a woman’s clothing while she shopped inside a Tinley Park Target earlier this month. Police are now asking for the public’s help in identifying two other women they believe were targeted by the same man on the same day.
Cameron Jernigan, 26, was arrested in connection with the incident that occurred around 5 p.m. on Friday, April 3, at the Target located at 7300 W. 191st St. According to the Tinley Park Police Department, the victim was shopping when Jernigan allegedly made unwanted contact by spraying a substance onto her clothing.
The charge of aggravated battery in Illinois covers a range of offenses more serious than simple battery. According to state law, battery becomes "aggravated" under specific circumstances, such as when it occurs in a public place or causes great bodily harm. The use of an "unknown substance" elevates the seriousness of the encounter, creating concern for the victim’s safety and potential harm.
Police seek additional potential victims
During their investigation into the April 3 incident, officers discovered evidence suggesting Jernigan may have had similar unwanted contact with two other women. Police believe one of the additional incidents occurred at the same Target, while another happened at the nearby Ross Dress for Less at 7290 191st St.
Investigators said the other women involved may not have been aware that a substance was placed on them at the time. This type of quiet, unsettling attack is not unheard of in the Chicago area, where similar incidents have been reported in the past.
Such events contribute to a growing anxiety about safety in public retail spaces, a concern that has been amplified by national trends. Retail crime and disturbances have become a significant issue for both customers and businesses. The National Retail Federation's 2023 survey on retail security noted that retailers are grappling with increasing levels of theft and organized retail crime, which has forced many to increase security measures and, in some cases, has impacted new store development, a topic Tinley Park has recently confronted in a lawsuit with developer Brixmor over a proposed grocery store.
Tinley Park Police are urging anyone who may have been in the vicinity of the Target or Ross on 191st Street around 5 p.m. on April 3 and had contact with Jernigan to come forward. Residents are asked to contact Officer Manzella at the Tinley Park Police Department at (708) 444-5300, referencing case number #26-01499. Jernigan is scheduled to appear at the Will County Courthouse on April 27.
Separate identity theft case highlights financial crimes
In a separate case highlighting a different form of local crime, another Tinley Park man was charged last year with aggravated identity theft. Sahran Almasri, 37, allegedly used a stolen credit card to make a fraudulent purchase of $9,100.
The Palos Heights Police Department, which handled the investigation, was initially alerted by the United States Postal Service and PNC Bank regarding several missing credit and debit cards that had been used fraudulently. The investigation focused on a charge made on Aug. 19, 2025, to Hot Wheels Auto LLC.
Investigators discovered that Almasri used the victim’s personal information, including a driver’s license with the victim’s name and address but a different photo, to complete the purchase without consent. The charge was aggravated because the victim was over the age of 60. Almasri was processed and released pending a future court appearance at the Bridgeview Courthouse.
A community on alert
These unrelated incidents underscore the diverse challenges facing law enforcement in suburban communities. From physical assaults in retail stores to complex financial fraud schemes, police departments must adapt to a wide spectrum of criminal activity. For residents, it serves as a reminder to stay vigilant while enjoying the many amenities the village has to offer.
While the alleged acts of Jernigan represent a direct and personal violation, the financial crimes Almasri is accused of reflect a growing, often invisible threat that can have devastating consequences for victims, particularly senior citizens. Both cases are now moving through the court system, where the full details will be presented.
The Tinley Park Police Department’s public appeal for more information in the Jernigan case shows a proactive approach to ensuring all potential victims are identified and that the full scope of the alleged crimes is understood before his scheduled court date.
