Housekeeper Sexually Assaults Patient, 88: Arlington Heights Police

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — An Elmwood Park man employed as a housekeeper at an Arlington Heights assisted living facility is accused of sexually assaulting an 88-year-old patient. Felipe De-Gyves, 67, of the 2400 block of N. 78th Avenue, was arrested Saturday and charged with felony aggravated criminal sexual assault and felony aggravated criminal sexual abuse.

De-Gyves was due in court Monday for a bond hearing.

According to police, officers were dispatched to the assisted living facility at 3 p.m. Saturday for a report of sexual assault. Police learned an employee witnessed a staff member, later identified as De-Gyves, sexually assaulting the patient. The witness, a certified nursing assistant, overheard the victim shouting for help as they were walking through the hallway. The CNA entered the patient's room and saw De-Gyves engaged in a sexual act with the victim as she laid in the bed.

Police said the victim, who has previously been diagnosed with dementia, suffers from significant cognitive impairment, which renders her incapable of making independent decisions. The CNA began shouting at De-Gyves, who pleaded with the witness to not report the incident. A nursing supervisor overheard the commotion, entered the room, and learned what had happened. Police were contacted shortly thereafter.

When officers arrived at the facility, De-Gyves reportedly left the building. Witnesses later positively identified him. Police detectives said De-Gyves admitted to illegal and improper conduct "for his personal sexual gratification."

WGN is reporting the incident occurred at Lutheran Life Communities, 3150 Salt Creek Lane, Arlington Heights.