Wheaton, IL – A former DuPage County corrections deputy has been found guilty of engaging in alleged inappropriate sexual conduct with a female inmate, according to the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office.
According to a statement released by DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin on Wednesday, Judge Joseph Bugos returned the verdict against Ricardo Hardy, 54, of Elgin, following a bench trial on June 11, 2025. Hardy, who was terminated from his position in May 2023, was accused of engaging in sexual acts with a female inmate on multiple occasions at the county jail.
Authorities allege that Hardy began a sexual relationship with the inmate between March 13, 2023, and April 26, 2023. Investigators say the misconduct took place both in the inmate’s cell and in a bathroom area, and that Hardy also allegedly arranged for $300 to be deposited into the inmate’s commissary account. Charges were approved against Hardy in May 2023 after authorities received information regarding the alleged conduct.
Judge Bugos found Hardy guilty on five counts of Custodial Sexual Misconduct and five counts of Official Misconduct, all Class 3 felonies, according to the State’s Attorney’s Office. Hardy was taken into custody following the court’s verdict. His bond had previously been set at $300,000, and then raised to $500,000 after additional charges were approved.
In a statement, State’s Attorney Berlin said, “Mr. Hardy clearly held a position of authority over his victim. He then used his position as a corrections officer to engage in sexual activities with an inmate. His actions are nothing short of a complete abuse of authority and a betrayal of the trust placed in him not only by the Sheriff’s Office but also the residents of DuPage County.”
Hardy’s next court appearance is scheduled for August 14, 2025, for post-trial motions and return of the pre-sentence investigation.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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