Machesney Park, IL - A 29-year-old Machesney Park man has been charged after authorities say he sexually abused a young girl during a school bus ride last month.
According to court documents, Mitchael McCracken faces one count of aggravated criminal sexual abuse of a victim under 17 while serving in a position of trust. The charge stems from an alleged incident on December 10, 2025, aboard a Harlem School District bus.
Allegation Reported and Recorded on Bus Camera
Investigators say a 4-year-old girl told her mother that the bus assistant touched her inappropriately on the ride home. The girl’s mother contacted the Harlem School District the following day. District officials reviewed bus camera footage and interviewed those on board, including the driver and McCracken, before notifying the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. The agency then alerted the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office.
On December 17, Detective Matthew Jarvis reviewed the video and said McCracken could be seen directing children to their seats, sitting beside the girl, putting his arm around her, and engaging in inappropriate contact. The detective reported that both the child and McCracken were seen behaving in ways that raised serious concern.
Victim’s Statement and Detective Interview
A few days later, Jarvis interviewed the girl, who said she told McCracken she didn’t like what he was doing, but he continued. She provided further details consistent with what was seen in the footage.
Detectives met with McCracken at his home on January 7, 2026. He reportedly described the girl as a “close friend” and said she had asked him to sit with her. He told investigators she had moved his arm around her, but he denied wrongdoing, claiming he “wasn’t acting clearly” and expressed regret after the fact. Court records state McCracken said he wanted to see whether he would “get into trouble” before apologizing.
School District Responds to the Charge
Following the accusation, Harlem School District Superintendent R. Terrell Yarbrough, Ed.D., shared a message with staff confirming the district’s response. The note stated that the employee had been immediately removed from duty after the allegations surfaced and is no longer employed.
The superintendent emphasized the district’s cooperation with law enforcement and reiterated its policies for mandatory reporting and swift action when misconduct concerns arise. Counseling and support services have been made available for students and staff.
Case Moving Forward
McCracken was released from jail pending trial and is scheduled to appear for arraignment on March 6, 2026. The Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office continues to handle the investigation as the case proceeds through the court system.
Understanding Legal Options After School Bus Sexual Abuse
When a child reports sexual abuse by a school bus driver or bus assistant, parents are often left frightened, confused, and unsure of what steps to take next. In this interview, attorney Erv Nevitt, an experienced Illinois sexual abuse lawyer, walks families through the legal paths that may be available to them, including potential claims against both the alleged offender and the school district, how criminal and civil cases differ, and why early legal guidance can help protect a child’s rights and emotional well‑being.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a young child reports inappropriate touching by a bus assistant, what are the first legal steps a family should consider?
Erv Nevitt, Esq.: The first priority is safety, so removing the child from contact with the alleged offender and reporting to law enforcement and child protection authorities is key. From there, families should speak with a civil attorney who can explain potential claims against both the individual and any responsible institution, such as a school district or transportation contractor.
Banville: How does the involvement of a school district and bus surveillance video factor into a potential case?
Nevitt: Video can be powerful evidence, especially when it captures the conduct on the bus and the employee’s interactions with the child. If a district employed or contracted with the assistant, there may be claims based on negligent hiring, supervision, or failure to protect students, depending on what the district knew or should have known.
Banville: Many parents are unsure about the difference between the criminal case and a civil lawsuit. How do you explain that distinction?
Nevitt: A criminal prosecution is brought by the state to determine whether the defendant violated criminal law and should face penalties like jail or probation. A civil case is brought by the survivor and their family to seek financial compensation for harms such as therapy costs, emotional trauma, and long-term impacts, and it can also drive institutional changes that improve safety.
Banville: Given the age of a four-year-old, what special considerations come into play when building a case?
Nevitt: Children that young may have difficulty describing what happened, so lawyers often rely on a combination of video, witness accounts, expert testimony, and statements taken in a child‑sensitive setting. The law also recognizes the vulnerability of young children, which can affect both how the case is presented and the damages sought for their pain and future care needs.
Banville: What would you say to a parent who is unsure about contacting a lawyer after an allegation like this?
Nevitt: I would tell them they don’t have to make any immediate decisions, but a consultation can help them understand their rights and timelines. Talking with a lawyer early can preserve evidence, protect the child’s interests, and give the family a clearer picture of all options while they focus on supporting their child.
Take Action Now: Free Consultation for Abuse Victims
If your child suffered sexual abuse by a bus assistant or driver, don’t wait to protect your family’s rights. Contact our team today for a free, confidential consultation—we’re here to guide you through every legal step and fight for the justice your family deserves. Call now to speak with an experienced attorney who understands these cases.
