Maurice Thompson, 32, was convicted of seven counts of Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault of a Child, a class X felony, involving three minor children under the age of thirteen. Thompson was first charged in October 2018, after the North Chicago Police Department responded to and investigated a report of a sexual assault incident involving more than one minor.  

State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart stated, “Thank you to the Multi-Disciplinary Team at the Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center that consisted of an advocate, forensic interviewer, Assistant State’s Attorney, the North Chicago Police Department, DCFS, and the Lurie’s Hospital Medical team. They all worked together to coordinate an effective response and bring justice to these victims. The North Chicago Police Department, who worked diligently to investigate this crime, should be commended for all their hard work.” 

The jury trial began on Monday, November 14, 2022, lasting five days. Jurors heard from different state witnesses, including medical and forensic experts. They explained how the victims’ testimonies of the assault aligned with the physical injuries and the evidence collected from the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE).  

Thompson was held on a $500,000 bond in the Lake County Jail from the time of his arrest until the trial. After the verdict, Judge David Lombardo revoked his ability to post bond. A pre-sentence investigation has been ordered by the court prior to any sentencing hearing. The case is set for status of sentencing on December 12, 2022.   

Because Thompson was convicted of all counts of Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault of a Child and there was more than one victim, Thompson is facing a mandatory natural life sentence in the Department of Corrections.  

State’s Attorney Rinehart continued, “Advocating for children of violent crimes is an integral part of the criminal justice process. This should be at the forefront in order to ensure children are protected and safe. We are grateful these children have received justice and our office will continue to support the victims in their healing journey.”