People v. Ressa

Defendant was convicted, after bench trial, of 2 counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse for physical contact with 2 children during 2 incidents, and 5 counts of child abduction.Defendant's materials referencing fantasies involving children were relevant to show his intent to commit the crimes with which he was charged.Although some of his writings dated back to 2010, such writings were continuous from 2010 to near to the time of his arrest. Although some of his touching of the children was not necessarily visibly sexual, a rational fact finder could infer that his intent was sexual from his attempt to lure the children with candy and money to a secluded place and from his writings.Psychological reports and his writings presented Defendant as a continuing, significant danger to children. Court did not abuse its discretion in sentencing Defendant to 20 years in prison.(ZENOFF and SPENCE, concurring.)