Hampshire man accepts plea deal in sexual abuse case
A 22-year-old Hampshire man who was arrested in June on charges he sexually abused a 16-year-old girl from St. Charles, pleaded guilty Friday to reduced charges and was sentenced to three years of probation, according to Kane County court records.
Nathan C. Lake, of the 44W0-99 block of Plank Road, spent 171 days in jail while his case was pending and must pay a $2,600 fine, records show. He has been released from jail.
Lake was set to have a jury trial Monday. Judge Susan Clancy Boles accepted the guilty plea, in which Lake pleaded guilty to felony aggravated battery in a public place.
According to court records, Lake committed the battery when he “kissed” the girl.
Other, more severe charges, such as aggravated criminal sexual abuse to a victim 13 to 17, were dismissed under the plea agreement, along with felony charges of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, indecent solicitation, traveling to meet a minor and child abduction.
Defense attorney Joseph McCaffrey could not be reached for comment.
Lake was arrested in early June 2013 by St. Charles police on charges he abused the teen in January 2013.
Police said Lake was 21 when he met the 16-year-old girl through an acquaintance and began texting with her. The teen sneaked out of her house without her parents’ consent or knowledge and the two eventually met up at Lake’s residence, police said.
Lake had previous arrests for domestic battery and telephone harassment, according to court records.
If he violates probation, he could be resentenced to up to five years in prison.