Chicago police are asking for the public’s help in identifying possible additional victims after charging a suburban man with sexually assaulting an 8-year-old boy inside a Portage Park discount store.
Darren Powell, 19, of Crete, is accused of following two boys, ages 8 and 11, into a restroom at DD’s Discounts, 3925 North Cicero Avenue, around 1:30 p.m. on May 29. Once inside, Powell sexually assaulted the younger child and restrained the older boy before the children were able to escape, according to police.
The attack prompted CPD to issue a community alert earlier this week that included a photograph of the suspect and details of the encounter. According to the alert, the boys were able to leave the restroom when another person entered.
Police announced Friday night that Powell has been charged with predatory criminal sexual assault of a child younger than 13 and unlawful restraint, adding that the investigation is ongoing as police work to determine if other children have been targeted.
Powell is scheduled to appear for a detention hearing Saturday afternoon at the Leighton Criminal Courthouse.
Anyone who believes they may have been victimized, or may have information about other possible victims, can contact CPD’s Special Investigations Unit at 312-492-3810.
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