School Bus Driver Accused Of Sexually Assaulting Child

LAKE COUNTY, IL — Bond has been set at $750,000 for a school bus driver accused of sexually assaulting a relative over several years, prosecutors said.

Richard Villanueva, 57, of Waukegan, was arrested Tuesday following an investigation by the Waukegan Police Department into the sexual assault. He has been charged with predatory criminal sexual assault of a child under 13 years old and predatory criminal sexual assault of a family member under 18 years old.

Authorities say they launched the investigation after receiving information from the alleged victim who is now an adult. The assaults started when the individual was a child and continued for several years, according to a news release from the Lake County State's Attorney's Office.

"Nothing is more important than the safety of our children. I want to thank the Waukegan Police Department for their effective investigation and our ASAs who reviewed this case in the Sex Crimes Unit. Our prosecutors and victim advocates will ensure that the victims in this case get all the support that they need and that the defendant faces justice for his actions," said Eric Rinehart, Lake County state's attorney, in a statement.

Meanwhile, authorities are advising the parents of students who may have had any contact with Villanueva to speak with their child and contact police with any additional information that may aid the ongoing investigation.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact the Waukegan Police Department Investigations Unit at 847-360-9000.

Villanueva is next expected in court on Sept. 21.