Accused Crystal Lake swim teacher swaps judges, asks for speedy trial

A Crystal Lake swim instructor accused of molesting two young male students earlier this year asked for a new judge and a speedy trial Thursday during his first felony court appearance since his arrest.

Rock J. Burman, 20, of the 3000 block of Mary Lane in McHenry, could go to trial in as little as four months after his defense Thursday filed court papers exercising, for now at least, his right to a speedy trial.

Burman's attorney, Jeffrey Altman, also filed for and received a substitution of judge, moving the case from the courtroom of Judge Joseph Condon to that of Judge Sharon Prather.

Altman declined to comment on his reasons for the switch, or the allegations against Burman. State law allows defendants to change judges once without giving a reason, so long as the switch is sought within 10 days of the case being assigned.

Crystal Lake police arrested Burman Monday on two counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, a Class 2 felony punishable by a maximum three to seven years in prison.

The arrest, police said, followed an investigation into claims he inappropriately touched two boys, both younger than 13, while teaching swimming at Centegra Health Bridge Fitness Center - Crystal Lake in early March.

In response to an inquiry Thursday about Burman's job status, Centegra released a statement saying his human resources record is confidential and cannot be discussed.

"Health Bridge Fitness Center's highest priority is the safety of our members and ethical responsibility of our Associates," the statement reads. "We take this very seriously and are fully cooperating in the investigation."

Burman, who is in custody at the McHenry County jail unable to post $100,000, is scheduled to return to court May 21.