At approximately 6:10 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023, the Wheaton Police Department arrested Robert J. Morales, 1670 Monticello Court, Unit C, Wheaton, Illinois, on a warrant for five counts of Possession of Child Pornography - Victim Under 13. Each count is a class 2 felony, which carries with it a potential sentence of 4 to 7 years of imprisonment.
Morales’ arrest is the result of an investigation by the Wheaton Police Department, acting on a cybercrimes tip from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Taskforce of Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s Office. The Wheaton Police Department, in cooperation with the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office, obtained and executed search warrants that ultimately led to evidence supporting the charges against Morales.
“I would like to thank Detective Hayward and all of those who assisted in the investigation for their diligent and thorough work leading to Mr. Morales’ arrest and charges,” Deputy Chief P.J. Youker said. “Child pornography is nearly impossible to remove from the internet, and it revictimizes the already exploited. Mr. Morales allegedly participated in this abuse and should be held responsible for his actions.”
Added State’s Attorney Robert Berlin: “Child pornography is not a victimless crime. Every time one of these images is downloaded or shared on the internet, child pornography claims another young, innocent victim. To protect these most vulnerable, my office stands ready to vigorously prosecute any allegations of child pornography.
“I would like to thank the Wheaton Police Department for their efforts not only on this case but also for their ongoing commitment to protecting our children from those who are involved in this filth.”
On Feb. 8, 2023, Morales posted bond ($100,000, with 10% to apply) and was released with bond conditions including no contact with any individual under the age of 18 (with exception to his child). His next court appearance is on March 6, 2023, at 10 a.m. in front of Judge Michael Reidy.
Robert J. Morales
Notice to Public: The public is reminded that a complaint contains only charges and is not proof of the defendant’s guilt. Constitutionally, a defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove his or her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.