Gerardo Mendoza, 36, of Crown Point, has been charged with three counts of child molesting following a Lake County Sheriff’s Department investigation into alleged incidents that occurred between September 2015 and July 2016.
According to court documents, the investigation began on April 24, 2025, when a juvenile disclosed to her mother that Mendoza had molested her when they lived together in Crown Point. The mother first called police in Illinois before filing a report in Lake County.
A forensic interview was conducted at a child advocate center, during which the child revealed other incidences that allegedly took place while Mendoza was residing in the same household. According to court documents, the molestation began when she was six years old and was about to turn seven.
Investigators later confirmed Mendoza’s prior residence at the location using law enforcement databases.
In May 2025, detectives spoke with Mendoza, who said that he was aware of a protection order against him. He declined to make a formal statement, saying he’d consult an attorney.
Charges filed on May 23, 2025:
• Child Molesting (Fondling or Touching a Child Under 14) – Level 4 Felony (×3)
Mendoza was released on June 24, 2025, after posting a $3,445 cash bond with the Clerk’s Office. The case remains pending.