A Kenosha businessman is facing multiple felony charges, including child sexual assault, possession of child pornography, and exposing a child to harmful material. If convicted, he could face over 100 years in prison.

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Erick Mejia-Cruz appeared in Kenosha County Circuit Court on December 2, 2024, where Commissioner William Michel II set his cash bail at $150,000. Mejia-Cruz has been charged with one count of repeated sexual assault of a child, sexual exploitation of a child through filming, possession of child pornography, and exposing a child to harmful material—each a felony offense.

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Allegations and Investigation

According to the criminal complaint, the investigation began on November 27, 2024, when a 13-year-old girl and her mother reported allegations of sexual abuse to the Kenosha Police Department. The girl disclosed that she had been in an ongoing sexual relationship with Mejia-Cruz, her mother’s former boyfriend, and that the most recent assault occurred that very morning.

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The victim was taken to Aurora Hospital for a forensic examination, and law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Mejia-Cruz’s residence, vehicle, and phone. Investigators gathered additional evidence, including clothing from the victim’s home.

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During an interview at the hospital, the victim detailed how the abuse allegedly began in January 2024 when Mejia-Cruz helped her mother secure a new residence. The victim stated that he initiated inappropriate contact, which escalated into sexual intercourse. She alleged that they engaged in sexual activity on numerous occasions at various locations, including Mejia-Cruz’s home, his car, and his business, Automotive Stylist, located on 52nd Street in Kenosha.

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The victim also disclosed that Mejia-Cruz filmed their encounters multiple times and that he had purchased explicit materials for her. She reported that the most recent assault occurred on the morning of November 27, 2024, when her mother dropped her off at Mejia-Cruz’s residence. She stated that she refused his advances, but he assaulted her despite her objections.

Suspect’s Admissions

Mejia-Cruz was taken into custody on November 28, 2024, at his residence. During an interview with law enforcement, he admitted to engaging in sexual activity with the victim but attempted to shift blame, claiming she initiated contact. He acknowledged filming some of the encounters and providing her with explicit materials. He also admitted that he was aware of the severity of his actions, acknowledging the significant age difference and recognizing that his actions were illegal.

Legal Proceedings and Community Response

Prosecutors emphasized the seriousness of the charges, stating that Mejia-Cruz posed a significant danger to the community. His bond was set at $150,000, and he remains in custody pending further court proceedings. If convicted on all charges, he faces a potential sentence exceeding 100 years in prison.

Authorities encourage anyone with information related to this case or similar incidents to contact the Kenosha Police Department.