Three teenagers from the Chicago area have been charged with felony sexual assault following an alleged attack on a female classmate during a graduation party. The incident, which prosecutors say took place in the Illinois suburb of Roselle, has led to serious criminal charges against the young men.
Details of the Alleged Assault
The DuPage County State's Attorney's Office states the alleged sexual assault occurred between the 14th and 15th of June. The three accused, all aged 18, are identified as Kevin Niemiec, Zachary Mascolo, and Jon Clary II. Prosecutors allege the assault took place inside a minivan during a private gathering to celebrate the group's graduation.
Authorities were clear that the event was not connected to any school-sponsored activity. Saint Viator High School confirmed the students had already graduated and that the party was a private affair organised independently of the institution.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
The three young men now face a series of felony charges. Kevin Niemiec has been charged with three counts of criminal sexual assault and was denied pretrial release, meaning he remains in custody.
Zachary Mascolo and Jon Clary II were granted pretrial release under specific court-imposed conditions. Mascolo faces two counts, while Clary faces three counts of criminal sexual assault.
In a strong statement, DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin condemned the alleged actions. He emphasised the profound and lasting harm such crimes inflict on victims, underscoring the seriousness with which his office is pursuing the case.
Community and School Response
The case has sent shockwaves through the local community. The swift action by prosecutors highlights the legal system's approach to allegations of sexual violence, particularly among young adults.
The school's distancing of the incident from its official functions points to the challenges educational institutions face when alleged misconduct occurs outside their direct purview, yet involves recent pupils.
As the legal process begins, the focus remains on ensuring a thorough investigation and a fair trial for all parties involved, while acknowledging the gravity of the allegations presented.
