37 years in prison for Elgin man who assaulted child over 4-year span
An Elgin man who sexually assaulted and abused a girl he knew from February 2007 to February 2011 while she slept on a relative's couch was sentenced late Monday to 37 years in prison.
Armando Vega, 51, of the 300 block of Shiloh Lane, was convicted in February of four counts of predatory criminal sexual assault and aggravated criminal sexual abuse.
Vega faced between 27 and 127 years behind bars on the charges.
According to prosecutors, Judge Clint Hull noted the victim had suffered psychological harm and would continue to suffer in the future.
At trial, prosecutors proved Vega assaulted and abused the girl, who was younger than 13, while she was sleeping on a relative's couch.
"The greatest tragedy here is that this child was victimized by an adult who should have been caring for and protecting her," State's Attorney Joe McMahon said. "Mr. Vega is now in a place where he is no longer a threat to children."
Vega must register as a sex offender for the rest of his life and under state law, he must serve nearly 30 years of his overall sentence.
Vega also will receive credit for 430 days served at the Kane County jail while the case was pending.