WOODFORD COUNTY (25News Now) – Woodford County authorities said they have spent the past month rounding up alleged sexual predators, all of whom have been released before trial under terms of Illinois’ SAFE-T-Act.
The suspects allegedly participated in online sexual conversations or traveled to have sex with a minor, according to a sheriff’s office news release.
Deputies said they arrested Mark W. Stephens, 54, of Minonk on July 24 for indecent solicitation of a child and grooming.
Michael S. Douglas Jr., 31, of Peoria, was arrested July 30 on three counts of indecent solicitation of a child and one count of traveling to meet a minor.
The other four suspects were arrested on Aug. 18.
Richard Pollizze, 55, of Peoria, is charged with indecent solicitation of a child, traveling to meet a minor, and grooming.
Steven Rassi, 79, of Morton, is charged with indecent solicitation of a child, traveling to meet a minor, and grooming.
Jeffry P. Collier, 66, of Bloomington, faces two counts of indecent solicitation of a child, traveling to meet a minor, and grooming, while Hayden R. Meeker, 19, from Villa Park, is charged with two counts of indecent solicitation of a child and traveling to meet a minor.
The release said all six were released from jail on specific conditions before their trials.
“As always, our office will continue to pursue individuals who seek to victimize juveniles,” the sheriff’s office said.
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