An Illinois man was arrested after sneaking into a family’s home and sexually assaulting a 7-year-old girl as she slept in her bedroom, authorities said Monday.
Carlos Espinales-Guevara, 25, allegedly broke in the family’s home in Glendale Heights around 3 a.m. Sunday and crawled into the child’s bed, DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office said in a statement.
“It is alleged that once in her bedroom, Espinales-Guevara got into the girl’s bed and sexually assaulted her,” the statement said.
When family members became aware that the alleged intruder was in the girl’s room, they removed him from the home and called 911. Espinales-Guevara then attempted to re-enter the house a second time but failed, according to prosecutors.
Responding officers found the suspect near the home and took him into custody. “These allegations are beyond disturbing and will be met with the full force and effect of the law,” DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin said. “Our children are our most vulnerable, and it is incumbent upon us to protect them from those who would do them harm.” Espinales-Guevara was charged with one count of predatory criminal sexual assault of a victim under 13 and one count of home invasion – sex offense. Both charges are a Class X Felony. On Monday morning, Judge Daniel Guerin denied bond for Espinales-Guevara. He is scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 31.
In Illinois, sexual assault is generally covered under the broader term of “criminal sexual assault.” The Illinois Compiled Statutes (ILCS) Title 720, Article 11, Subdivision 1 outlines the laws related to criminal sexual assault.
Criminal sexual assault includes various forms of non-consensual sexual activity, such as rape and other forms of sexual penetration without the victim’s consent. The specific definitions and penalties can vary based on factors like the age of the victim, the relationship between the victim and the perpetrator, and the use of force or threats.
Sexual assault is a serious criminal offense in Illinois, and those convicted can face significant penalties, including imprisonment and fines. The length of imprisonment and the amount of fines can vary based on the degree of the offense. Convicted individuals may be required to register as a sex offender. The duration and level of registration can depend on the specifics of the case and the severity of the offense. Sex offender registration can have long-lasting consequences, including public notification of the offender’s presence in the