Elgin police officer facing child pornography charges

An Elgin police officer has been charged with possession of child pornography.

Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul's office said in a news release that Jordan Collins, 33, of Kirkland, was charged with five counts of possession of child pornography, Class 2 felonies, each punishable by up to seven years in prison.

Collins has been with the Elgin Police Department for five years. He's currently in custody at the DeKalb County jail. His next court date is Dec. 20.

"All child predators, particularly those in a position of authority, must be held accountable for the horrific crime of child pornography that can leave lifelong scars on victims and their families," Raoul said in the release. "I am absolutely committed to working with local law enforcement agencies to protect communities from offenders who exploit children - even if those individuals are themselves supposed to be keeping their communities safe."

Elgin Police Chief Ana Lalley released a statement on the department's Facebook page saying Collins was placed on administrative leave immediately following the arrest, with additional action expected following review of the criminal charges.

"The criminal actions of a single police officer do not define the Elgin Police Department," Lalley's statement read. "This department will never deviate from upholding the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and dedication to the community it serves."

Investigators from the attorney general's office, with the assistance of the DeKalb County sheriff's office, conducted a search of Collins' residence in the 400 block of First Street in Kirkland on Dec. 4 and discovered evidence of child pornography.

With the cooperation of the Elgin Police Department, Collins was arrested while on duty that evening.

Raoul's office will co-prosecute the case with the DeKalb County state's attorney's office.