Crystal Lake Woman Pleads Guilty To Sexual Conduct With Dog

CRYSTAL LAKE, IL — A 28-year-old Crystal Lake woman pleaded guilty Wednesday to a felony charge involving sexual contact with a dog, according to the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Katelyn E. Heiden entered an open plea of guilty Aug. 27 to one count of sexual conduct with an animal, a Class 4 felony, before Judge Mark R. Gerhardt. Under the open plea, there is no agreement between prosecutors and Heiden regarding her sentence.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Nov. 20 in Courtroom 302, where Gerhardt will determine the sentence under the applicable sentencing laws and statutory sentencing range, prosecutors said.

The investigation began July 11, 2025, after Huntley police received a report alleging that Heiden and another man had engaged in sexual acts involving animals. Investigators obtained search warrants for the pair’s cellphones, and a forensic examination uncovered digital evidence that prosecutors said corroborated the allegations.

The investigation determined Heiden had engaged in sexual contact with a dog, according to prosecutors. She ultimately pleaded guilty to one count based on that conduct.

“This case involved deeply disturbing conduct that was uncovered through a thorough investigation and the forensic examination of electronic evidence,” McHenry County State’s Attorney Randi L. Freese said. “Animals are vulnerable and depend upon people for their care and protection. Our office will continue to work with law enforcement to hold accountable those who criminally exploit or abuse them.”