BENTON, Ill. (WSIL) -- Jesse Skaggs, 36, of Benton was sentenced to 44 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections in a criminal sexual assault case.

Franklin County State's Attorney Abby Dinn announced the sentencing on Wednesday, which took place at the Franklin County Courthouse with the victim's family and law enforcement in attendance.

On February 26, 2025, Dinn stated a family member of Skaggs reported a history of sexual abuse involving Skaggs and a minor. Benton Police Detective Mark Wilkey led the investigation, during which Skaggs admitted to the assaults, according to Dinn.

Skaggs was charged on March 17, 2025, with predatory criminal sexual assault and criminal sexual assault. He later pleaded guilty to four counts of criminal sexual assault.

Judge Evan Owens sentenced

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