Aurora Teacher Who Failed To Report Child Abuse Sentenced

AURORA, IL — A former Aurora elementary school teacher has been sentenced for failing to report suspected abuse of a student. Elizabeth Aguilar, 44, was found guilty in September of failing to report suspected abuse and neglect to Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).

In March 2018, prosecutors shared evidence that indicated Aguilar had "reasonable cause to believe that a child known to her in her professional capacity was an abused child" and did not report the suspected abuse to Illinois DCFS. As a teacher, Aguilar was required by law to report any instances of suspected abuse or neglect "immediately."

Related: Aurora Teacher Failed To Report Abuse To Authorities: Cops

After Aguilar was sentenced, Kane County State's Attorney Joe McMahon said in a statement, "Mandated reporters are obligated by law to report suspected child abuse. Childrenare told that when they are in danger they should tell someone. What a shame that the person given this information failed to follow through. I hope this prosecution has sent a clear and strong message that there are consequences to those who do not take this obligation seriously."

Aguilar's sentence includes 1 1/2 years of supervision and 150 hours of community service.