Lake in the Hills man accused of sexually abusing teen

A 47-year-old Lake in the Hills man is facing up to seven years in prison after his weekend arrest on allegations he molested a 13-year-old girl.

John E. Birtell is charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse stemming from a March 5 incident in which he inappropriately touched the girl, who he knows, according to a criminal complaint.

The charge is a Class 2 felony punishable by three to seven years in prison, or probation.

Lake in the Hills police arrested Birtell Friday, the same day they were contacted about the allegations by a "mandated reporter" - someone who, under state law, must notify authorities when they learn of possible abuse.

Birtell, of the 0-100 block of Bonnie Court, posted a $5,000 bond Saturday morning and is free pending a scheduled court appearance March 13.