Effingham man arrested on multiple counts of predatory criminal sexual assault to a child

EFFINGHAM, Ill. (WAND) — An Effingham man was arrested Tuesday for predatory criminal sexual assault to a child and aggravated criminal sexual abuse.

Jason W. Jones, 42, was taken into custody by Effingham Police on five counts of predatory criminal sexual assault to a child under 13 and one count of aggravated criminal sexual abuse.

The arrest came after an investigation by Effingham City Police that began in late November. Detectives discovered multiple victims during the initial investigation and are working on these leads. Additional charges could be added if the investigation uncovers more evidence of criminal activity.

Every count of predatory criminal sexual assault to a child is a class X felony. If convicted, Jones could face a mandatory sentence of 6-60 years in prison. If he is convicted of counts involving two different victims, he would be subject to a mandatory sentence of natural life in prison. Aggravated criminal sexual abuse is a class 2 felony that carries a sentence of 3-7 years.

Chief Jason McFarland praised the detectives and officers who are working on this case, stating, "I want to commend our department for the exemplary work on this recent arrest. These are never easy cases for the victims, our community, or the investigating officers. The dedication, skill, and teamwork of all those involved have once again demonstrated the highest standards of law enforcement. The values of our department are upheld by offering dignity and compassion to the victims and their families, as well as effecting justice to the offender through a thorough and competent investigation.”

The investigation into this case is on-going by Effingham City Police and the Effingham County State’s Attorney’s Office; no additional information will be released at this time.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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