Man Faces 97 Years In Prison For Sex Assault Of Young Child He Knew

KANE COUNTY, IL -- A 37-year-old Batvia man could now face up to 97 years in prison after he was convicted last week of sexually assaulting a young child he knew, prosecutors said. During a bench trial, Kane County Judge found Joel Becerril, of the 12oo block of East Wilson Street in Batavia, guilty of three counts of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child, class X felonies; and two counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, class 2 felonies. The conviction was handed down on Aug. 9 after Becerril waived his rights to a jury trial, according to a news release from the Kane County State's Attorney's Office.

Prosecutors presented evidence that showed Becceril sexually assaulted a young child he knew between 2006 and 2010. The victim was younger than 13 years old, according to prosecutors.

“This defendant’s family pressured on the victim to try to silence her. But when a child discloses sexual abuse we will always listen, and we will always pursue justice and accountability,” Kane County State’s Attorney Joe McMahon said.

Becerril is next expected in court on Oct. 4 for motions and sentencing. He faces a sentence of between 18 and 97 years in prison. He also will be required to register for life as a sex offender, according to the news release.

Following his conviction, the $15,000 bond for Becerril, who had been free on bail, was revoked and he was taken into custody.

Photo via the Kane County State's Attorney's Office