Local Man Charged w/Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault

A local man has been charged with predatory criminal sexual assault.

62-year-old Richard L. Bailey of Effingham is a registered sex offender stemming from a conviction in Coles County in 2002. Bailey was sentenced to five years in prison for aggravated criminal sexual abuse involving a victim under age 13.

As to the current incident, Effingham Police Chief Jason McFarland said an investigation on January 31 led to Bailey's arrest by Effingham City Police this week. The Court also found that Bailey should be detained in custody. He is due in court for a preliminary hearing on February 20. Meanwhile, an investigation by police continues.

Predatory criminal sexual assault is a Class X felony, meaning a conviction would result in mandatory prison time.