Illinois Man Faces Up to 60 Years for Child Sexual Assault Conviction
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Hoopeston, IL – Eric Wendt has been convicted of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child and now faces up to 60 years in prison. The guilty verdict, delivered Friday, follows a retrial after the first trial ended with a hung jury.
According to the Kankakee County State’s Attorney’s Office, the conviction was achieved through extensive collaboration. Investigators from the Hoopeston Police Department and Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office gathered evidence critical to the case. Child Network and Clove Alliance provided vital support to the survivor and their family throughout the legal process.
Key testimony from a civilian witness and expert testimony from Brooke Coutant, a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner, were instrumental in securing the conviction. Prosecutors credited their contributions with helping bring Wendt to justice.
Assistant State’s Attorneys Justin Umlah and Samantha Sweeney led the prosecution, with support from victim witness advocates and legal staff. Kankakee County State’s Attorney Jim Rowe commended their professionalism and commitment.
Wendt remains in custody while awaiting sentencing. Officials hope the conviction provides some measure of justice for the survivor and their family.
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The post Illinois Man Faces Up to 60 Years for Child Sexual Assault Conviction appeared first on Country Herald.