Man who police say traded vapes to minors for sexual acts back behind bars

A 26-year-old Zion man who police say traded vape cartridges and marijuana edibles to Gurnee-area teenagers for sex is back behind bars after a judge doubled his bail Thursday.

Isai Gonzaga is facing 26 charges of aggravated criminal sexual abuse. He was out of jail after paying $25,000 in bail set before the number of charges against him increased, but Lake County Judge Daniel Shanes doubled that bail because the charges involve multiple victims.

"The nature of the charges is quite serious. You are charged with 26 counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse," Shanes said. "One count is a serious charge."

Gonzaga left the hearing in handcuffs and was brought to Lake County jail.

Gonzaga was initially charged in March with five counts of aggravated criminal sex abuse. As the investigation has continued, the number of charges increased to 16 and then to 26.

Assistant State's Attorney Mary Stanton requested the bail increase after a third victim came forward. She argued that the original amount did not reflect the 10 counts recently added.

Gonzaga's defense attorney, Alana DeLeon, said in court that Gonzaga could afford to pay an additional $500 at most. But to be free again before trial, he will now have to post an additional $25,000 in cash.

According to Gurnee police, the department began investigating Gonzaga after receiving tips he was exchanging vaping materials with minors for sexual acts and images. Investigators said they found multiple victims 13 to 17 years old.

Gonzaga would pick up the teens and drive them to a different location to make the exchange, according to authorities.

Initial reports listed Gonzaga's hometown as Round Lake Park, but court officials now list his current address as Zion.