Victim Escapes Sexual Assault, Kidnapping Attempt

A homeless man with a history of violent crime has been accused of the aggravated attempted criminal sexual assault and kidnapping of a River Forest woman, authorities said.

The incident took place around 7:50 p.m. Thursday, when police said 44-year-old Tracy Taylor, a registered sex offender, approached the woman as she was walking in the 1300 block of William Street. Taylor grabbed the unidentified 37-year-old woman by her arms, put her in a bear hug then forced her into his 1994 Pontiac Grand Prix and sped away.

Deputy Police Chief Craig Rutz described what happened next: Taylor was trying to physically control the woman, but she kept resisting. She then screamed to alert neighbors who immediately called 911. Meanwhile, she tried to leave the car and turn off its engine, eventually popping her door open and exiting the car just as police arrived. 

Police responded in "less than a minute," and arriving officers found Taylor violent and out of control before he was taken into police custody, Rutz said.

The victim, who received minor injuries during her struggle, was taken to the hospital and later released.

Five felony counts have been lodged against Taylor, who's believed to reside in the Aurora area. The charges include attempted aggravated criminal sexual assault, kidnapping, attempted robbery, aggravated battery and unlawful restraint.

He is expected to appear in Maybrook Court for a bond hearing on Aug. 13. A preliminary hearing is set for Aug. 18.

Police credited the courage of the victim, the reactions of neighbors and the quick response by police in resolving the incident. Key to the resolution, Rutz said, was the victim's unwillingness to surrender.

“[Taylor] was bigger and stronger and she continued to fight," he said. "She was sure she was in grave fear for her life, and she did not give up."