Lisle Teens Accused Of Sexually Assaulting Girl In Walgreens Bathroom In Naperville

NAPERVILLE, IL — Two Lisle teens face felony charges after police say they sexually assaulted a girl in the bathroom of a Walgreens in Naperville Sunday. According to prosecutors, one of the teens recorded the sexual assault on video.

James Patterson, 17, was charged with aggravated criminal sexual assault and robbery. A 15-year-old boy, who is accused of video recording the assault, was charged with aggravated criminal sexual assault, criminal sexual assault and child sexual abuse material.

Police were called to the Walgreens at 713 E. Ogden Ave., Naperville, around 3:30 p.m. Sunday for a report that someone had been sexually assaulted. According to prosecutors, the girl was in the bathroom when Patterson and the 15-year-old came in, pinned her to a wall and pulled down her pants.

Police say the girl pulled her pants back up and got out of the stall before she fell and Patterson punched her "repeatedly," then sexually assaulted her as the 15-year-old videotaped him.

Officials said both defendants fled the scene on foot and were found and arrested by Naperville police shortly after. Arresting officers reported that Patterson had the girl's cellphone when he was taken into custody.

"The charges filed against Mr. Patterson and his co-defendant are extremely serious,” DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin said in a statement.

Berlin added, “It is alleged that Mr. Patterson and his co-defendant, repeatedly beat and violated the victim in the worst possible way. The physical and emotional pain allegedly inflicted on this young woman is unimaginable and it is my sincerest hope that she and her family receive the care they need to help them through this difficult time. I commend the survivor in this matter for her courage and strength in bringing this matter to our attention."

Naperville Police Chief Jason Arres said, "Our hearts remain with the survivor of this horrific crime,” Arres said. “Sexual assault is a violent and dehumanizing act, and this department has zero tolerance for such behavior. I am disgusted by what occurred, and we will continue to support the victim with compassion and respect as the case moves forward. I am grateful for the swift and dedicated work of our officers and detectives, which led to the prompt arrest of those responsible. Because of their efforts, these individuals are now in custody and will be held fully accountable."

Both defendants are being detained, with Patterson set to appear in court Feb. 2 and the 15-year-old scheduled for a Jan. 27 court appearance.