CROWN POINT — A Lake County jury has found Jorge Patino guilty of 14 felony charges, including child molesting and rape, following a trial in Lake Superior Court, Lake County Prosecutor Bernard A. Carter announced.
Patino was convicted of six counts of Level 1 felony child molesting, two counts of Level 3 felony rape, two counts of Level 4 felony child molesting, one count of Level 4 felony criminal confinement, two counts of Level 6 felony intimidation and one count of Level 6 felony dissemination of matter harmful to minors.
The case stemmed from an investigation by Hammond Police Detective Christopher Matonovich into allegations involving a young child between January 2022 and June 2024.
According to the probable cause affidavit filed in the case, the child told investigators during a forensic interview that Patino had sexually abused her repeatedly over approximately two years while she was between the ages of 6 and 8. Investigators said the alleged incidents occurred at the Lake County home where Patino lived with his mother while the child and her siblings were visiting.
The affidavit alleges the abuse included multiple forms of sexual contact and penetration. The child told investigators some of the conduct occurred repeatedly and that Patino would isolate her from others inside the home.
Investigators also alleged Patino used threats involving the child’s siblings to intimidate her and force her to view sexually explicit material online. According to the affidavit, the child told investigators her greatest fear was that Patino would also abuse her brother and sister.
The child underwent a forensic medical examination as part of the investigation. Detective Matonovich wrote in the affidavit that he reviewed the medical records and spoke with a forensic coordinator at Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center during the investigation.
“This verdict represents accountability for extremely serious crimes committed against a child,” Carter said. “Cases involving crimes against children require tremendous care, preparation, and dedication. Our office remains committed to protecting children and holding those who prey upon them accountable under the law.”
Carter credited Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Tara M. Villarreal for prosecuting the case and thanked Detective Matonovich, Hammond Police Officer Arthur Latiker and the Hammond Police Department for their investigative work.
The prosecutor’s office also recognized Victim Witness Assistant Caitlin Dziewicki and personnel from Dunebrook Children’s Advocacy Center, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center and the Indiana State Police Laboratory for their assistance during the investigation and prosecution.
“The successful prosecution of cases like this depends on the collaboration of prosecutors, law enforcement, investigators, victim advocates, and other professionals who work to protect our most vulnerable,” Carter said. “We are grateful for their service and their continued partnership with the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office.”
