Four Counts of Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault Filed in McLean County

A Bloomington, Illinois man faces four counts of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child in McLean County, according to an article by The Pantagraph. 

This Illinois man allegedly committed sexual conduct with a minor child under the age of 13. According to reports, the four offenses happened between November 6 and December 1 of 2021. 

Local authorities issued a warrant for the Illinois man’s arrest on December 16, and a judge set the man’s bond at $1 million.

While this matter continues to develop from a legal standpoint, it seems appropriate to review the Illinois laws against and punishment for predatory criminal sexual assault of a child. 

Illinois Laws Against Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault

720 ILCS 5/11-1.40 furnishes the Illinois laws against predatory criminal sexual assault of a child. Under this section, this offense applies when the perpetrator is at least 17 years old, and the victim is [...]

Written by on January 14, 2022

Domestic Battery Charges Filed Against Bloomington, Illinois Woman

Local authorities filed charges of domestic battery against a woman from Bloomington, Illinois, according to an article by The Pantagraph. 

Reports indicate that police officers saw the Illinois woman shove a victim in the back, causing that victim to fall to the ground. Apparently, this woman faces charges for felony domestic battery as a repeat offender. 

At this point, the Illinois woman remains in police custody after declining to post bail. This woman is already subject to a no contact order, and further legal proceedings are expected. 

While this case continues to develop, it seems appropriate to review Illinois laws against and penalties for domestic battery, including the definition of a family or household member.

Illinois Definition of Family or Household Member

The Illinois definition of a family or household member appears under 720 ILCS 5/12-0.1. This section defines a family or household member as a person’s:

    Present
[...]

Written by on October 6, 2021

What is the Difference Between Regular and Aggravated Assault in Illinois?

Often misunderstood outside of legal circles, assault is an Illinois crime that involves a reasonable fear of harmful or offensive contact. Unlike battery crimes, assault does not require physical contact. But if a perpetrator makes a victim fear that such contact is imminent, they can face criminal charges for regular or aggravated assault under Illinois law. 

What are the Illinois Laws Against Assault?

720 ILCS 5/12-1 establishes the Illinois laws against assault. Under this section, it is unlawful to knowingly engage in conduct that places another person in reasonable fear of battery, without legal authorization or authority. 

How Does Illinois Punish Assault?

Section 12-1 also furnishes the Illinois punishment for assault. Under this section, assault is usually charged as a Class C misdemeanor. If convicted, the penalties can include a maximum of 30 days in jail and $1,500 in criminal fines. Any person who commits assault may also face [...]

Written by on August 12, 2021

Bloomington Man Charged With Regular and Aggravated Domestic Battery

A Bloomington man faces Illinois criminal charges for regular and aggravated domestic battery, according to an article by The Pantagraph. 

Allegedly, the Bloomington man attempted to strangle a female victim. This man also threatened to shoot the victim if they attempted to contact the police or otherwise seek help. 

As a result of this incident, the authorities charged the Bloomington man with two counts of domestic battery and one count of aggravated battery. At this point, the Bloomington man remains in police custody after declining to post bail. 

While the legal process continues to play out in this case, it seems appropriate to review the Illinois statutes governing regular and aggravated domestic battery. 

Domestic Battery

The Illinois laws against domestic battery appear at 720 ILCS 5/12-3.2. Under this section, a person commits domestic battery if they knowingly and without legal justification:

    Cause bodily harm to any family
[...]

Written by on June 11, 2021