Chicago Photographer Accused of Sexually Abusing Minor at Harvard Park

September 9, 2026 4

Milton Espino-Mejia, 25, of Chicago, (inset) was arrested by officers in a park in Harvard after they found that he traveled to McHenry County, picked up a child and engaged in sexual acts on Friday. | Background Photo: Harvard Parks and Recreation Department; Inset: Provided

HARVARD, Ill. — A Chicago photographer has been charged after prosecutors allege he traveled to McHenry County to meet a minor and sexually abused the child at a park in Harvard.

Milton Espino-Mejia, 25, of Chicago, is charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse, a Class 2 felony, and traveling to meet a minor, a Class 3 felony.

Prosecutors said Espino-Mejia met the minor while working as a photographer at a party.

On Sept. 4, Espino-Mejia allegedly traveled from Chicago to McHenry County, picked up the minor and went with the child to a park in Harvard.

Prosecutors allege Espino-Mejia sexually abused the minor at the park.

Harvard police officers encountered Espino-Mejia and the minor at the park and began an investigation.

Prosecutors said Espino-Mejia admitted to officers that he engaged in sexual conduct with the minor.

Espino-Mejia appeared in court Sept. 5. Prosecutors requested that he remain detained while the case is pending.

A judge granted the request and ordered Espino-Mejia detained.

Court records in the case have been sealed.

Espino-Mejia is scheduled to return to court Oct. 6.

The charges are allegations. Espino-Mejia is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.