North Chicago man gets 27 years for molesting girls

A North Chicago man was sentenced to 27 years in prison today for molesting three Round Lake Park girls.

James Lezine, 47, was convicted of predatory sexual assault of a child and aggravated criminal sexual abuse after a trial in March.

Lake County Assistant State's Attorney Mary Stanton said Lezine, of 2015 N. Christian Ave., was a friend of the girls' mother.

Lezine molested the girls, ages 8 to 11, on numerous occasions between 2001 and 2006, Stanton said.

One victim told a relative about the abuse and that relative called police, resulting in Lezine's arrest in April, 2007.

Stanton said Lezine was a career criminal who has served prison sentences in Louisiana, Wisconsin and Illinois for robbery and possession of a stolen car.

She said he exploited the girls and took advantage of their trust. Stanton asked for a sentence of at least 20 years.

"He caused damage to three little girls," she said. "The court heard in great detail what their lives were like."

Lake County Assistant Public Defender Art Kessler said Lezine maintains his innocence despite his conviction, and asked for a sentence of not more than 14 years.

Circuit Judge John Phillips rejected Lezine's claim of innocence.

"The evidence was clear and the evidence was strong," Phillips said. "This case is really one of absolute betrayal of trust."