Elgin Man Pleads Guilty to Horrific Sexual Assault and Witness Intimidation, Faces Decades in Prison

Elgin, IL – In a significant step towards justice, Jose Luis Vasquez-Hernandez, a 28-year-old Elgin resident, has pleaded guilty to heinous charges of aggravated criminal sexual assault, criminal sexual assault, and witness intimidation. This pivotal development in Kane County Circuit Court has culminated in a substantial 32-year prison sentence, bringing a measure of closure to a profoundly disturbing case.

The harrowing events unfolded in March 2023, when Vasquez-Hernandez subjected a 19-year-old woman to a brutal sexual assault within an Elgin apartment.

The trauma inflicted upon the victim was compounded by Vasquez-Hernandez's subsequent, chilling attempt to obstruct justice. He actively engaged in witness intimidation, pressuring the victim to sign a false affidavit claiming he had not assaulted her, a desperate and reprehensible bid to evade accountability.

State's Attorney Jamie Mosser underscored the severity of the crimes, stating, “Mr.

Vasquez-Hernandez not only committed a terrible sexual assault, but he also tried to silence his victim and prevent her from seeking justice. We are committed to protecting victims and holding offenders accountable for their actions, particularly when they attempt to manipulate the legal process.”

For the aggravated criminal sexual assault charge, Vasquez-Hernandez received a 22-year sentence.

This will be served consecutively with an additional 10-year term for the charge of witness intimidation. According to Illinois law, he must serve at least 85% of the sexual assault sentence, ensuring a lengthy period of incarceration before any possibility of parole. Upon his eventual release, he will be subject to lifetime supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender, providing ongoing public safety oversight.

The successful prosecution was a result of diligent work by the Elgin Police Department and Assistant State’s Attorneys Lori Anderson and Nicole Clauter.

Their combined efforts ensured that critical evidence was collected and presented, leading to the guilty plea and a sentence that reflects the gravity of the offenses committed. This outcome sends a clear message that attempts to intimidate victims and undermine the justice system will be met with severe consequences, reinforcing the commitment to victim protection and the rule of law.