FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

McHenry County State's Attorney Randi L. Freese announces that on July 29, 2026, a McHenry County jury found Ann L. Migliorato, 63, of Crystal Lake, guilty of three counts of Aggravated Battery to a Child, Class X felonies, and one count of Unlawful Operation of a Child Care Facility, a Class A misdemeanor. The guilty verdict was returned after approximately one hour of deliberation following a three-day jury trial.

At trial, prosecutors presented evidence establishing that Migliorato was operating an unlicensed daycare from her Crystal Lake home during the spring of 2024. On April 11, 2024, a courageous 10-year-old girl attending the daycare became alarmed by the way Migliorato was handling an 11-month-old infant during a diaper change. Fearing the baby was being hurt, the child discreetly used a cell phone to record what she was witnessing. She later showed the video to her mother, who contacted the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, triggering the investigation that ultimately led to Migliorato's prosecution.

The video, which was shown to the jury, captured Migliorato forcefully changing the infant's diaper by using her body weight to push the baby's legs above his head while restraining him. Throughout the encounter, the infant can be heard crying before making gurgling and grunting sounds consistent with pressure being applied to his neck or chest. As the baby struggled to free himself, Migliorato was heard saying, "Every day I'm sick of this with you. Now you are going to pee again, no you're not. No, you're not. You're not peeing all over me." She continued pinning the infant while telling him, "I told you, I don't play, dude." As the infant became increasingly lethargic and his right arm went limp, Migliorato remarked, "You might want to give your mom a run for the money, and everyone else in town, but not me."

Medical testimony presented during trial established that the infant suffered a fractured rib during the timeframe depicted in the video. Physicians also determined that he had two additional healing rib fractures consistent with prior abuse.

Migliorato's case has been continued for sentencing on October 8, 2026, in Courtroom 304.

State's Attorney Freese stated: "Children should never have to protect one another from the very adults entrusted with their care. Yet in this case, the courage and quick thinking of one young child to record what was happening helped expose the truth and secure justice for this victim. We hope this verdict sends a clear message that those who abuse children will be held accountable."

State's Attorney Freese also commends the Crystal Lake Police Department, and especially Detective Jennifer Zielinski, for her diligent investigation and unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable children. She also thanks Victim Advocate Polo Fabian and Summer Intern Caroline Kendall for their advocacy and assistance on behalf of the victim throughout this trial.

The case was successfully prosecuted by Chief of Staff Ashley Romito and Special Prosecutor William Bruce.

#####