Illinois State’s Attorney General Kwame Raoul yesterday charged an Elgin police officer with possession of child pornography.
The 33-year-old officer, who lives in Kirkland, was charged in DeKalb County Circuit Court with five counts of possession of child pornography, Class 2 felonies, each punishable by up to seven years in prison. The accused, a police office for five years with the Elgin Police Department, is currently detained at the DeKalb County Jail, and his next court date is December 20.
“All child predators, particularly those in a position of authority, must be held accountable for the horrific crime of child pornography that can leave life-long scars on victims and their families,” Raoul said. “I am absolutely committed to working with local law enforcement agencies to protect communities from offenders who exploit children – even if those individuals are themselves supposed to be keeping their communities safe.”
Raoul’s investigators, with the assistance of the DeKalb Sheriff’s Department, conducted a search of the accused’s residence on Monday in the 400 block of First Street in Kirkland and allegedly discovered evidence of child pornography. With the cooperation of the Elgin Police Department, he was arrested while on duty Monday evening.
“This officer was placed on administrative leave immediately following the arrest with additional action expected following review of the criminal charges,” said Elgin Police Chief Ana Lalley. “The criminal actions of a single police officer do not define the Elgin Police Department. This department will never deviate from upholding the highest standards of integrity, accountability and dedication to the community it serves.”
Raoul’s office will co-prosecute this case with the DeKalb County State’s Attorney office.
The public is reminded that the defendant is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Child sexual exploitation can be reported online at www.cybertipline.com and child abuse at dcfsonlinereporting.dcfs.illinois.gov. In addition, local child advocacy centers can be found at www.childrensadvocacycentersofillinois.org.
