12 Year Sentence for West Chicago Man for Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault

Merino pleaded guilty to one felony count of predatory criminal sexual assault of a nine-year old relative, DuPage County States Attorney Robert Berlin said in a written release.

“From June through August, 2011, the victim was brought to Merino’s home for babysitting while her mother was at work,” the written release stated. “The sexual assault took place at Merino’s home while he babysat the girl.

The assault however, came to light in March, 2014, during a visit to a health care professional when the victim disclosed what Merino had done to her.”

Merino appeared in Court March 12 where his bond was set at $500,000. He has remained in custody since then.

“During the summer of 2011, Mr. Merino was supposed to take care of and protect his young victim while her mother was at work,” Berlin said in a written release. “But instead of keeping a watchful eye on her, Mr. Merino sexually assaulted her in a disgusting attempt to satisfy his own sick desires. He thought nothing of what effect his assault would have on her.”

Merino will be required to serve 85% of his sentence before being eligible for parole. He will also have to register as a sex offender for life.