O'Shea Warns Mt. Greenwood Neighbors About Accused Child Pornographer

CHICAGO, IL -- Ald. Matt O’Shea (19th) is warning neighbors near three elementary schools about child pornography that was allegedly found in a nearby neighbor’s home.

Russell L. Rhoads, 51, was charged Feb. 3 with possession of child pornogrpahy. He was arrested in his home the day before in the 10700 block of South Homan Avenue in the Mt. Greenwood neighborhood.

Bail was set at $100,000 last week. As special conditions of bond, Rhoads is to have no contact with children under 18, except for his daughter. He was also ordered to have no computer and Internet access, including smartphones.

• RELATED: Mt. Greenwood Man Charged With Class X Felony After Child Porn is Found in Home: Cops

O’Shea said he spent part of Thursday afternoon distributing public safety updates to neighbors, asking them to call 911 if they spot Rhoads violating the terms of his bond.

Rhoads’ residence is near three elementary schools, including Mt. Greenwood, Queen of Martyrs and St. Christina.

“Hundreds of kids walk past this guy’s house everyday,” O’Shea said. “I’ve been contact with the principals of these schools.”

The Mt. Greenwood man had reportedly been under investigation by the Chicago Police Department for several months.

Rhoads’ next court hearing is Feb. 22. O’Shea said he plans to monitor the case and report back to the community.

Photo: Russell L. Rhoads | Chicago Police Department