09/19/2025
Waukegan Man Arrested on Child Po*******hy Charges
Lake County, IL – September 19, 2025 – Lake County Sheriff’s Detectives arrested a Waukegan man following an investigation into the possession of child po*******hy, authorities announced Friday.
Detectives received a tip from an email provider indicating that suspected child po*******hy was sent from a device in Lake County. Investigators traced the activity to an apartment in the 3300 block of Sunset Avenue, Waukegan.
On September 18, 2025, Sheriff’s detectives, working alongside the Illinois Attorney General’s Office and the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office, executed a search warrant at the residence. Assisting in the search were Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office Electronic Detection K9 Grip and Sheriff’s Electronic Detection K9 Enzo.
During the operation, detectives seized multiple electronic devices containing dozens of child po*******hy images and videos, many depicting children under the age of 13. The devices were linked to Thomas Castillo, 65, who resides at the apartment.
Following a review of the evidence, the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office approved five counts of possessing child po*******hy against Castillo. Officials noted that additional charges remain possible as the investigation continues.
Sheriff John D. Idleburg praised the work of the investigators, stating:
“Our Cybercrime Unit, including Electronic Detection K9 Enzo, is relentless in the search for child predators. This year alone, they’ve conducted dozens of investigations that have resulted in the arrests of numerous offenders preying on our children. We will continue doing everything possible to protect our children and our most vulnerable.”
Castillo is currently being held at the Lake County Jail pending his initial court appearance. Prosecutors plan to file a petition to detain him while he awaits trial.