Former Aurora Christian Schools board member charged with sexual abuse of minor

An Aurora man who once served on the Aurora Christian Schools board is facing charges of sexual abuse against a minor.

Michael Robert Herbert, 55, is charged with involuntary sexual servitude of a minor under 17, criminal sexual assault, involuntary sexual servitude of a minor age 17-18, aggravated criminal sexual abuse and possession of child sexual abuse materials.

Aurora police said Herbert was under investigation since December 2025 when a man, now in his 20s, reported Herbert groomed and sexually abused him in his early teens. Police said the man told investigators Herbert provided “gifts, money and other incentives as part of the ongoing manipulation and abuse.”

Herbert was arrested Thursday and is due in court today for a detention hearing.

Officials at Aurora Christian Schools said leadership there was “not answering any questions” about Herbert’s arrest. He is no longer listed as a member of the school board on the group’s website, but online records show he previously served as vice chairman and secretary of the board.

Herbert is also a real estate attorney and is still licensed to practice in Illinois, according to the state’s Attorney Registration & Disciplinary Commission.

Aurora police said the investigation is still ongoing as they review additional electronic devices and interview others. More charges are possible.

Anyone with information related to this investigation, or who believes they may have had contact with Herbert under similar circumstances, is urged to contact Aurora police at (630) 256-5500 or email tips@aurora.il.us.