FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
McHenry County State’s Attorney Randi L. Freese announces that on June 24, 2026, Raymond Link, 49, of West Allis, Wisconsin, was found guilty but mentally ill of Attempted First-Degree Murder and six counts of Aggravated Battery following a bench trial before the Honorable Judge Tiffany E. Davis. The matter has been continued for sentencing on September 2, 2026.
Evidence presented at trial established that on May 25, 2024, a woman was walking her dog in Petersen Park in McHenry when she became the victim of a savage and unprovoked attack. Link violently assaulted the victim with his bare hands, beating, stomping, and strangling her in a sustained attack that nearly claimed her life.
The attack was interrupted only by the courageous actions of a bystander who observed the assault and immediately intervened while calling 911. When confronted, Link falsely claimed he was performing CPR on the victim. As the bystander continued to approach, he witnessed Link kick the victim in the head. Link then turned his violence toward the bystander, striking him and ordering his dog, named “Dhamer,” to attack. The bystander suffered a broken clavicle and multiple dog bite injuries while attempting to protect the victim.
Officers with the McHenry Police Department responded quickly to the scene and took Link into custody.
As a result of the attack, the victim suffered catastrophic and life-altering injuries, including the loss of an eye, multiple broken bones, and permanent brain damage.
At trial, Link asserted the affirmative defense of insanity. After considering the testimony, evidence, and arguments presented by both parties, Judge Davis rejected that defense and found Link guilty but mentally ill. Under Illinois law, a finding of guilty but mentally ill does not relieve a defendant of criminal responsibility. A defendant found guilty but mentally ill faces the same penalties as any other convicted offender.
“This was a horrific act of violence that forever changed the lives of two innocent people,” said State’s Attorney Randi L. Freese. “The victim endured unimaginable injuries, and a brave citizen put himself in harm’s way to intervene and help save her life. This case presented extraordinarily complex legal and factual issues, including significant questions regarding the defendant’s mental state and criminal responsibility. These challenging prosecutions require experience, skill, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Our office is fortunate to have Chief of Staff Ashley Romito, whose knowledge, professionalism, and extensive trial experience were instrumental in successfully prosecuting this difficult case. We are grateful for her exceptional work, leadership, and dedication to our office’s mission.”
State’s Attorney Freese also commends the McHenry Police Department for its thorough investigation and commitment to seeking justice. She also extends her appreciation to McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office Victim Advocate Kelly Gallagher for her unwavering support and advocacy on behalf of the victims throughout these proceedings.
The case was successfully prosecuted at trial by Chief of Staff Ashley Romito.
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