Former CPS Teacher Sentenced to 17 Years for Grooming, Sexually Abusing Three Boys
Convicted of Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault and Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse
A former Chicago Public School gym teacher, Andrew Castro, has been sentenced to 17 years in prison for grooming and sexually abusing three boys under the age of 13. Castro was a physical education teacher at Federico Lora Elementary School in the city’s Avondale neighborhood on the Northwest Side when he formed inappropriate relationships with the three boys.
Grooming and Abuse
According to a spokesperson from the Disparti Law Group, the abuse and exploitation sentences would be served concurrently so the total prison term would be 17 years. Castro was accused of grooming and sexually abusing the boys over a period of four years by attending their sporting events, taking them to the mall and to the movies, and bringing them to his home.
Sentencing
Castro was sentenced Friday after he pleaded guilty to predatory criminal sexual assault of a child under 13, two counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse of a child under 13, and exploitation of a child under 13. Judge Domenica Stephenson levied ten years of prison time for the sexual assault charges, seven years for each abuse case, and one year for the exploitation charge.
Civil Case Settlement
Last year, attorneys announced a $2 million settlement with the Chicago Public Schools in the civil case. The settlement was reached after the boys’ parents filed a federal lawsuit against Castro, alleging that the school district failed to protect their children from the abuse.
Recovery and Support
“While we are happy there has been another significant step toward resolution in this case, there is still a long road of recovery for the abused,” said Larry Disparti, Founder of Disparti Law Group. “Our children deserve better.”
Sexual Abuse Hotline
The Disparti Law Group has established a Sexual Abuse Hotline, a special line that allows parents of abused children to call and speak directly, and confidentially, with an attorney that specializes in abuse cases. Parents of any child who may have been groomed or abused can call (312) 506-1235 for help.
Conclusion
This case is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of sexual abuse on children and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable. As the Chicago Public School Office of the Inspector General Sexual Allegations Unit continues to investigate and prosecute cases of sexual abuse, it is crucial that parents and caregivers remain vigilant and report any suspected abuse to the authorities.
FAQs
* What is the total prison term for Andrew Castro?
+ 17 years
* What charges did Andrew Castro plead guilty to?
+ Predatory criminal sexual assault of a child under 13, two counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse of a child under 13, and exploitation of a child under 13
* What is the Sexual Abuse Hotline number?
+ (312) 506-1235
