Wesley D. Ratliff, 34, of Marquette Heights, Illinois, is facing felony charges in Lake County following an investigation into alleged sexual misconduct involving a minor, according to court records.
Authorities began investigating the case in early 2026 after receiving information connected to a broader investigation involving child sexual exploitation material.
According to a probable cause affidavit, Ratliff communicated with a 15-year-old girl in Indiana through social media in May 2025. Investigators said the conversations became sexual in nature and included plans to meet in person. Records indicate the girl disclosed her age during those exchanges.
Authorities allege Ratliff traveled to Crown Point on May 11, 2025, where he met the juvenile at the Dean and Barbara White Southlake YMCA and drove her to a nearby church, where sexual contact occurred.
Investigators said digital evidence, including social media messages and account data, corroborated the timeline of events. YMCA records also confirmed the juvenile was present at the facility that day.
Authorities further allege Ratliff admitted to communicating with the minor and traveling to meet her.
A forensic interview with the juvenile was conducted in March 2026. While the victim did not recall details of the incident during that interview, investigators stated that digital evidence and prior communications supported the allegations.
Lodged in the Tazewell,Illinois County Jail on February 26,2026 for Child Pornography.
Charges filed April 9,2026:
• Sexual misconduct with a minor (Level 4 felony) — two counts
• Sexual misconduct with a minor (Level 5 felony) — committed by a person at least 21 years old
• Child solicitation (Level 5 felony) — involving a victim between 14 and 16 years old
