Homeless Elgin woman found on bike path says she was raped

A 46-year-old homeless woman found sleeping and partially clothed off a bike path near South Elgin Monday afternoon says she was sexually assaulted, police said today.

Kane County Forest Preserve Police Chief Mike Gilloffo said the woman was found by a maintenance worker about 12:33 p.m. near the Fox River Reclamation District plant in the 10N00-99 block of Raymond Street,

"He saw her lying in the weeds. He thought she was sleeping," Gilloffo said.

The woman was taken to Sherman Hospital and kept overnight. The chief said there were no obvious signs of physical trauma on the woman, who told authorities she believes she was attacked on the path and pushed into the weeds after spending a night at an Elgin tavern.

"One of our female officers interviewed her and she said she was sexually assaulted the night before (July 6)," Gilloffo said. "(The hospital) used a standard kit for collecting evidence in a sexual assault case."

Investigators planned to interview the woman again today now that she has had time to regain her strength.

Gilloffo also noted the alleged assault took place at night -- when the trails and forest preserves are closed -- and residents should not fear for their safety if they are out during the day.

Check back at www.dailyherald.com for more.