Man charged in June attack on woman near Lake Arlington

A 36-year-old man has been arrested and charged in an attack on an 18-year-old woman this summer near Lake Arlington in Arlington Heights, authorities said Thursday.

Jeff G. Gaspard, who is unhoused, faces two charges of aggravated battery stemming from the June 7 assault at Windsor Drive and Jonquil Circle, police said.

Police said the woman was walking home around 11:15 p.m. when she was approached by a man riding a bicycle. The man grabbed her, pushed her to the ground, and began choking her, according to police.

The woman fought off the attacker, fled and flagged down a passing driver who called 911, authorities said.

Detectives worked over the summer to canvass homes and businesses for surveillance footage and followed up on tips from the public, while a forensic artist developed a composite sketch of the suspect.

That led to the suspect’s arrest Tuesday afternoon in a nearby town, officials said.

The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office approved felony charges of aggravated battery — strangulation, and aggravated battery — public way.

Gaspard was due in court for a detention hearing Thursday.

“This arrest reflects our department’s commitment to never give up on a case and to seek justice for every victim,” Police Chief Nick Pecora said in a news release. “Our detectives worked tirelessly for four months, and we are grateful to everyone who helped bring this investigation to a resolution.”

cplacek@dailyherald.com