Oak Lawn Woman Accused Of Bringing Loaded Gun Into Wheaton Courthouse

WHEATON, IL — An Oak Lawn woman is accused of bringing a loaded gun into the DuPage County Courthouse. Suheir Barham, 47, appeared Thursday before Judge Joshua Dieden on felony charges of unlawful use of a weapon and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon.

According to the DuPage County state’s attorney, around 9 a.m. Thursday, Barham sent her backpack on the conveyor belt through the metal detector before proceeding through the security checkpoint.

A deputy observed a firearm inside the backpack on the Xray, that state’s attorney said. The deputy is alleged to have pulled out a loaded, Sig Sauer 9mm handgun with a live bullet in the chamber from Barham’s backpack. Deputies took Barham into custody.

“I commend the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office for their heads-up work on this case,” DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin said. “Every day, the DuPage County Government Complex, which includes the County Courthouse, receives thousands of visitors. These individuals have every right to feel safe while conducting their business with the County. Additionally, DuPage County employees should not have to worry about their safety while at work.”

Bail was set at $100,000. Barham posted 10 percent bond and was released. Barham is due back in court Aug. 21, for arraignment in front of Judge Michael Reidy.