Cop Convicted Of Sexually Abusing Woman During Traffic Stops: Prosectors

LAKE COUNTY, IL — A former Park City police officer was convicted Wednesday of sexually abusing a woman during two traffic stops while on duty, according to the Lake County State's Attorney's Office.

Patrick Cacho, 29, was found guilty of 20 counts, including aggravated criminal sexual abuse, criminal sexual abuse, aggravated battery and official misconduct, following a three-day jury trial that began Monday. Prosecutors said Cacho sexually abused the woman during separate traffic stops in December 2025 and January 2026, threatening her with criminal charges before the assaults.

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During both encounters, Cacho failed to activate his body-worn camera, notify dispatch or document the traffic stops, according to prosecutors. The investigation began in late January after a friend of the victim reported the allegations to the Park City Police Department. Illinois State Police investigated the allegations, and Cacho was charged in April 2026.

During the trial, the woman testified about the nonconsensual sexual contact. Illinois State Police investigators and other law enforcement officers also testified about evidence gathered during the investigation, including Park City Police Department records and phone records that prosecutors said corroborated the woman's account.

Prosecutors also presented testimony from cyber forensic experts.

Cacho took the witness stand in his own defense after prosecutors rested their case. He denied the allegations and challenged the woman's account of the encounters.

The jury returned guilty verdicts late Wednesday evening.

"By sexually abusing someone he had pulled over, this officer failed the public and his fellow police officers in every way possible," Lake County State's Attorney Eric Rinehart said in a statement. "He intimidated and abused a member of our community when we were trusting him to protect people."

Rinehart also praised the woman for coming forward and credited Illinois State Police, the Park City Police Department, prosecutors and victim support counselors for their work on the case.

"Because of this courageous victim, this offender will now face the strong prospect of years in prison," Rinehart said.

Cacho faces up to seven years in prison on the most serious charge, a Class 2 felony. The offenses are eligible for probation, although the judge has discretion to impose consecutive prison sentences.

Cacho will also be required to register as a sex offender for life.

His next court appearance is scheduled for Dec. 17 at 1:30 p.m.