Man Charged In Choking Attack On Teen Near Lake Arlington

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — A 36-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with the June attack on an 18-year-old woman who was pushed to the ground and choked while walking home near Lake Arlington, according to Arlington Heights police.

Jeff G. Gaspard was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon in a neighboring jurisdiction following a four-month investigation. Police describe Gaspard as homeless but did not identify where he was arrested.

The Cook County State's Attorney's Office approved two charges: aggravated battery involving strangulation and aggravated battery on a public way, both Class 3 felonies.

Gaspard remains in custody pending transport to the Cook County Third Municipal District Courthouse in Rolling Meadows for a detention hearing scheduled for Thursday.

The attack occurred around 11:15 p.m. June 7, near Windsor Drive and Jonquil Circle. The woman reported that a man riding a bicycle approached her, grabbed her, pushed her to the ground and began choking her.

She fought off the attacker, escaped and flagged down a passing motorist, who called 911.

As Patch previously reported, the woman suffered injuries that were not considered life-threatening and was reunited with her family.

Detectives canvassed homes and businesses for surveillance footage, followed up on public tips and worked with a department forensic composite artist to develop a sketch.

Police released the sketch in June, along with a potential surveillance image showing a person matching the description riding a bicycle toward the Lake Arlington area.

Information developed during the investigation led detectives to Gaspard, and additional evidence identified him as the suspect, according to the department.

Police credit the Northeastern Illinois Regional Crime Laboratory with rapidly analyzing a large volume of evidence that was instrumental in identifying the suspect.

"This arrest reflects our department's commitment to never give up on a case and to seek justice for every victim," Police Chief Nicholas Pecora Jr. said. "Our detectives worked tirelessly for four months, and we are grateful to everyone who helped bring this investigation to a resolution."

The department commended the woman for fighting off her attacker and continuing to cooperate with investigators. Police also thanked the motorist who stopped to help, residents and businesses who reviewed footage and shared tips, and the state’s attorney's office.

Police are asking the community to respect the privacy of the woman and her family. Anyone with additional information can contact the Arlington Heights Police Department at 847-368-5300.

Criminal charges are accusations, and Gaspard is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

Past Coverage:

• Sketch Released Of Suspect In Attack Near Lake Arlington
• Teen Who Was Attacked, Choked While Walking Home Helped By Good Samaritan: Cops