Green Oaks, IL – A 15-year-old girl from North Carolina was rescued from a Green Oaks residence, where she was allegedly held and abused.
According to the United States Marshals Service, the missing girl was found on Prairie Ridge Road after an investigation with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. On July 24, detectives obtained a search warrant and apprehended Andrew W. Szech, 43, who was seen leaving the home with the victim.
Authorities report that Szech communicated with the victim online in June and convinced her to travel to Chicago in early July. He allegedly picked her up at the bus station and took her to his Green Oaks home, where the abuse occurred.
A search of Szech’s home revealed various drugs and a firearm. He faces multiple charges, including criminal sexual abuse, drug possession with intent to deliver, and aggravated battery. Additional charges are expected.
Szech remains in custody awaiting trial, while the victim is safe and receiving care. Sheriff John D. Idleburg emphasized the commitment to rescuing victims of trafficking and abuse, thanking the collaborative efforts of federal and local partners in this case.
