Real was arrested on Wednesday, July 31, after Lake County Sheriff’s detectives conducted an investigation and learned Real was downloading and possessed child pornography.   

During the detention hearing, the State argued that Real’s pre-trial release would pose a real and present threat to the safety of the community because the possession of child pornography is not only a sex crime but also a violent crime. Prosecutors pointed out that the children in these images and videos are being harmed every time this content is disseminated. Prosecutors also noted how important it is to curb the demand for such illegal and harmful material.  

After the detention hearing, Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart stated, 

“With the SAFE-T Act, we are able to keep our children safe from predators like this one. Under the cash system, based on preliminary data, seven out of every 10 offenders charged with child pornography were posting large amounts of cash and getting out on bail. Ever since the SAFE-T Act went into effect, we have held EVERY offender being charged with possession of child pornography."   

Real is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on August 29, 2024, at 1:30 p.m.