Palatine teen held on $2 million bail on sexual assault charges
A Palatine teen was ordered held on $2 million bail Wednesday on charges that he sexually assaulted two young girls over a five-year period, beginning when they were toddlers.
Joseph Griffin, 18, faces two counts of predatory criminal sexual assault. If convicted, he faces a mandatory life sentence.
Cook County Assistant State's Attorney Maureen McGee said Griffin, who has no criminal background, began abusing the girls, who are now 6 and 7 years old, in 2011 when they were 1 and 2.
The girls' mother learned of the abuse earlier this month after a family friend reported that one of the girls “was talking about sex,” according to McGee.
The girls' mom called police and medical personnel, who confirmed the abuse, McGee said.
Griffin must post 10 percent of his bail, or $200,000, to be released from Cook County jail.
If Griffin posts bail, Cook County Judge Samuel J. Betar III ordered he have no contact with the girls and surrender his FOID card and any firearms he may possess.
Griffin is next scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 11.