To strengthen protections for the children of McHenry County, the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office created the Crimes Against Children Task Force (CACTF) in July of 2023. The CACTF is a specialized unit comprised of experienced prosecutors and law enforcement investigators dedicated to investigating allegations of physical and sexual abuse of children. This initiative was launched to ensure that these cases receive the most thorough and comprehensive investigations possible. Our knowledgeable team works hand in hand with 22 local law enforcement agencies, the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), the medical staff at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford Medical Evaluation Response Initiative Team (MERIT Program), the Child Advocacy Center of McHenry County, and other essential community partners to ensure diligent follow-up and case management.

Since its inception in July of 2023 through December of 2024, the CACTF has handled 55 investigations, leading to charges that reinforce our commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community. The CACTF has been instrumental in securing convictions for cases involving Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault, Aggravated Battery to a Child, Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse, Indecent Solicitation of a Child, Child Pornography and Grooming, showcasing the effectiveness of our team in combatting these egregious offenses. In addition to ensuring that investigations are completed promptly and thoroughly for recent allegations of child physical and sexual abuse, the CACTF has also taken on investigations involving allegations of sexual abuse from as far back as 30 years. Regardless of how much time has passed, the CACTF will work as hard as possible to bring justice to victims whenever he or she has the courage to come forward to hold predators accountable for their actions.

The Crimes Against Children Task Force stands as a testament to the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and delivering justice. This program, led by our employees and driven by our resources, ensures that offenders are held accountable, and victims receive the justice they deserve.

The CACTF is led by Chief Investigator Keith Von Allmen, who brings over 30 years of law enforcement experience to the role. Chief Von Allmen served as the Johnsburg Police Chief for 13 years before retiring in 2023. While in law enforcement, he worked many years on McHenry County’s Major Investigation Team and served as a volunteer on the McHenry County Child Advocacy Board of Directors.

In addition to Chief Von Allmen, the CACTF includes two seasoned investigators with more than 50 years of combined law enforcement experience: Robert Bice and Patrick Dillon. Investigator Robert Bice retired from the Palatine Police Department as a detective, having served the citizens of Palatine for a total of 28 years, 19 of which was in the investigation bureau. Investigator Bice has a proven track record in solving complex cases and brings his commitment to working with the highest degree of integrity and professionalism to the CACTF.

Investigator Patrick Dillon served for over 20 years as a deputy sheriff with the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office. Investigator Dillon is a proud veteran of the United States Army, having served honorably with the 25th Infantry Division before beginning his law enforcement career.

Together, this dedicated team brings a wealth of expertise and commitment to the CACTF mission.

If you or someone you know is a victim of child physical or sexual abuse, the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office encourages you to report the abuse to your local law enforcement agency.