Babysitter Charged With Sexual Assault, Child Pornography Offenses: Authorities

LAKE COUNTY, IL — A Lake County babysitter has been arrested on multiple felony charges, including predatory criminal sexual assault of a child, manufacturing child pornography, and possession of child sexual abuse material, following an investigation by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

Gene Lowrey, 41, of the 200 block of Joanna Court in Antioch, was arrested Thursday after what officials described as an extensive investigation by the sheriff’s office Criminal Investigations Division, according to a news release.

The case began while detectives were investigating a separate matter involving a family member of Lowrey. During a forensic interview at the Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center, a child disclosed allegations that Lowrey, who worked as a babysitter, sexually abused her in 2020 while caring for her and her siblings at a residence in unincorporated Antioch, authorities said.

As investigators continued the case, they learned Lowrey had also been the subject of a 2023 investigation involving suspected child sexual abuse material. During that earlier investigation, detectives obtained Lowrey’s cellphone but did not initially have sufficient probable cause to conduct a forensic examination. The device was retained as potential evidence.

Based on new information developed in the current investigation, detectives obtained a search warrant to examine the phone. According to authorities, that forensic review uncovered approximately 600 files depicting child sexual abuse material, including images and videos involving children ranging from infants to teenagers.

Investigators also allege Lowrey used online platforms, including Discord, to obtain such materials.

Lowrey has been charged with two counts of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child, one count of manufacturing child pornography and 11 counts of possession of child sexual abuse material. An arrest warrant was issued on Thursday, and Lowrey was taken into custody at his residence without incident, according to the sheriff’s office.

Officials said investigators identified one child victim and another child who Lowrey had access to during the course of the investigation. Both children were removed from his access and are safe, authorities said.

“This goes to show our detectives and staff will never give up on a victim,” Sheriff John D. Idleburg said in a statement. “Protecting children from those who exploit and abuse them remains one of our highest priorities.”

The investigation remains active and additional charges may be forthcoming as digital evidence is reviewed.

Lowrey is being held in the Lake County Jail and is due to appear in court. Prosecutors intend to file a petition to detain him while awaiting trial, authorities said.