Ronald Lye, a former security patrol officer in Boystown, is facing a minimum of 81 years in prison for sexually assaulting a 13-year-old boy he met online. This shocking case has been ongoing since May 2020 when Kane County prosecutors brought charges against Lye.
It’s worth noting that Lye had a troubling history even before these recent criminal charges. Back in 2015, it was revealed that he was working as a security guard despite being a convicted felon. This revelation led to an investigation by the Northalsted Business Alliance, the organization responsible for hiring security personnel in the area.
Lye’s past includes a conviction for impersonating a police officer and using illegal flashing blue lights back in 1999. He and a co-worker reportedly extorted money from individuals by posing as law enforcement officers when they were actually security guards at a motel. This troubling incident involved handcuffing an underage individual and demanding money for their release.
Despite these serious allegations, Lye attempted to regain his security guard license in the following years. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation granted him a probationary permit, allowing him to resume his patrol duties on Halsted Street.
However, Lye’s past caught up with him in 2020 when he was charged with multiple counts of criminal sexual abuse, manufacturing child pornography, and possessing child pornography. After a lengthy legal battle, he was found guilty on all charges by Kane County Judge David Kliment.
The sentencing for Lye is set for February 28, and he is facing a minimum of 81 years in prison for his heinous crimes. This case serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of thorough background checks and stringent hiring processes, especially in positions of authority and trust.
As the community grapples with the shocking revelations about Lye, it underscores the need for vigilance and accountability in ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals, especially vulnerable populations like children. The consequences of Lye’s actions are severe, and justice must be served to prevent such atrocities from happening in the future.
