Mark A. Hampton of Oswego was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment on four counts of predatory criminal sexual abuse of a child, authorities announced today.
A Kane County jury found Hampton guilty of the offense in October. Hampton’s sentence was handed down by Kane County Judge Donald M. Tegeler, Jr.
“Harsh sentences in child sex assault cases are necessary to serve as a deterrent because of the long-term emotional scars survivors suffer, most likely for the rest of their lives,” Kane County Assistant State’s Attorney Lori Schmidt commented after the verdict was announced. “Children are exceptionally vulnerable to sexual abuse, and its impact on them most likely will be profound. The most significant injury survivors will suffer is to their mental health. Even years of counseling might not undo the damage caused by child predators. Still, I hope this child can begin to heal and find a place of safety as she grows up.”
During Hampton’s trial, prosecutors provided evidence that between November 2015 and August 2017 Hampton repeatedly sexually assaulted a child that he knew, and who was younger than 13 years old at that time.
In addition to the prison term, Hampton must register for life as a sexual offender in accordance with the Illinois Sexual Offender Registration Act.
According to Illinois law, Hampton must serve at least 85 percent of the sentence. Hampton receives credit for 84 days served in the Kane County jail.
