Gary Swiercz, Chicago Ridge Deputy Fire Chief, Resigns After Arrest In Brutal Attack

Updated story

Gary Swiercz's colleagues in the Chicago Ridge Fire Department are shocked by allegations the 49-year-old Deputy Fire Chief broke into a woman's Tinley Park home Saturday night and carried out a vicious assault.

The Chicago Ridge Fire Department released an announcement Monday that Swiercz resigned his post, effective immediately, reports CBS Chicago.

The 24-year veteran of the south suburban Chicago fire department posted his $150,000 bond on Tuesday, reports Fox Chicago. Swiercz then headed to his parent's suburban home where he'll be electronically monitored.

Prosecutors say Swiercz was wearing a ski mask and carrying a folding knife, duct tape, rope, a sex toy and lubricant during the 2:35 a.m. Saturday break-in, reports the Tribune.

Swiercz apparently didn't go far for a victim, allegedly breaking into the home of a woman that lived in his condo building in the 8100 block of 168th Place, according to Evergreen Park Patch.

The details of the attack described in the Tribune ended with a struggle, and Swiercz fleeing the scene. NBC Chicago reported when police arrived, they found Swiercz, who matched the victim's description of her attacker, in the parking lot of the condo building. The victim was treated for injuries at the scene.

According to ABC Chicago, Swiercz is charged with home invasion, attempted murder, unlawful restraint, burglary and attempted sexual assault.

Swiercz's attorney, Colleen McSweeney Moore implied prescription drugs may be to blame and told a judge the attack was "an aberration and totally out of character for this man,” reports CBS Chicago. Moore cited Swiercz's receipt of the Army’s Good Conduct Medal and his community service.

Chicago Ridge Mayor Gene Siegel told the Tribune he was "surprised and shocked" to learn of the news. Siegel said nothing in Swiercz's past indicated violence.