A volunteer firefighter from Zeigler, Illinois, was charged with a child sex crime after transporting a minor for the purpose of sex, reported NBC affiliate WPSD.
The Zeigler City Attorney released a statement concerning this situation last week. Based on that statement, law enforcement arrested the volunteer firefighter on August 19th. The next day, the local fire department terminated the volunteer’s appointment. At this point, the volunteer remains in custody and awaits the next steps in a criminal trial.
Given the backdrop of this unfortunate news story, it seems like a great time review Illinois laws and penalties for the child sex crime of luring.
What is the Definition of Luring in Illinois?
The definition of luring appears in 720 ILCS 5/10-5.1. In general terms, luring refers to any act to solicit, entice, tempt or attract a minor child. In specific terms, an adult over 21 years of age commits luring if they contact a minor child:
- Knowing that the child is under 15 years of age;
- Intending to persuade, lure or transport the child away from their parents or guardians;
- Aspiring to engage in unlawful or criminal conduct; and
- Lacking the express consent of the child’s parents or guardians.
What are the Penalties for Luring in Illinois?
The penalties for luring also appear in 720 ILCS 5/10-5.1. In most circumstances, the penalties escalate based on the number of offenses.
For the first offense, luring is generally a Class 4 felony in Illinois. The typical penalties for a Class 4 felony include one to three years in jail, $25,000 in fines and 30 months of probation. Before sentencing, the offender must undergo a sex offender evaluation.
For a second offense, luring is generally a Class 3 felony in Illinois. The typical penalties for a Class 3 felony include two to five years in jail, $25,000 in fines and 30 months of probation. Additionally, a second conviction for luring means that the perpetrator must register as a sexual predator of children under the Sex Offender Registration Act.
For a third or subsequent offense, luring is generally a Class 1 felony in Illinois. The typical penalties for a Class 1 felony include four to 15 years in jail, $25,000 in fines and 48 months of probation. Moreover, a third conviction carries the sex offender registration requirement, as well.
Do You Need Legal Help?
No matter what the criminal offense, all charges are serious. A sound strategy and an aggressive defense are essential for a positive outcome. To protect your rights in such situations, it is highly advisable to retain legal counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney.
The Prior Law Firm in Bloomington, Illinois, has proven experience in matters of criminal defense. If you need legal help with criminal defense, contact us today for a free consultation. You can reach The Prior Law Firm by phone at (309) 827-4300, email at johnprior@thepriorlawfirm.com or by completing an online form.
(image courtesy of jaanus-jagomagi)