Missing Aurora Twp. man gets 45 years for child sex assault
If Enrique Ruiz is ever found, he will spend the rest of his life in prison.
The 85-year-old Aurora Township man, who went missing just weeks before his December trial on charges he sexually assaulted a young girl he knew, was sentenced to 45 years in prison Thursday.
Ruiz, of the 0-99 block of North Farnsworth Avenue, is suspected of fleeing the country.
He was last seen Nov. 24, 2013, after telling family members he was going for walk in the Oakhurst Forest Preserve near his home.
Ruiz was convicted in absentia Dec. 11 of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child and aggravated criminal sexual abuse.
Prosecutors said Ruiz assaulted the girl between June 2004 and November 2010. The victim told a school counselor, who immediately called police.
During the trial, Ruiz' wife said his Mexican passport was missing and the family owns a home in Mexico City.
Judge James Hallock issued the maximum sentence, under which Ruiz also must register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
Kane County State's Attorney Joe McMahon said the victim showed great courage.
"This child should be praised for the tremendous courage she showed in coming forward not only in her own defense but also to prevent other children from being victimized," McMahon said.