Police: Devin Hester slapped at Rivers Casino in Des Plaines

Chicago Bears' wide receiver Devin Hester was the victim of a battery Friday night at the Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, police said. Reports indicate a Mount Prospect man approached Hester from behind and slapped the Bears star in the back of the head. Associated Press file photo

Chicago Bears wide receiver Devin Hester was the victim of a battery Friday at the Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, police said Tuesday.

The assault, which occurred about 10:40 p.m. inside the casino at 3000 S. River Road, was caught on surveillance camera, Des Plaines Police Chief Jim Prandini said.

Daniel G. Rago, 52, of the 200 block of Wille Street in Mount Prospect, is charged with one misdemeanor count of battery as a result.

Police said Hester, 28, was waiting in line for a cashier when Rago approached from behind, slapped the back of Hester's head with an open hand and walked away.

Hester notified casino security and signed a complaint against Rago, who was detained until Des Plaines police arrived and arrested him a short time later.

"Hester was a perfect gentlemen through the whole thing," Prandini said. "There was no argument between them beforehand. (Rago) had been drinking. Mr. Hester did not retaliate in any way, shape or form. He was extremely professional throughout and there was no problem."

Rago later posted 10 percent of a $1,000 bond to go free while the case against him is pending. He is set to appear for a hearing at Cook County's Skokie courthouse at 1:30 p.m. Dec. 1. If found guilty, he could face up to a year in jail or $2,500 fine.

The event didn't seem to bother Hester much on the field this weekend, as he scored two long touchdowns -- on a 48-yard reception and a 98-yard kickoff return -- during the Bears' 39-10 win Sunday night over the Vikings.