Paroled Boystown rapist with ankle monitor accused of groping 6-year-old, but her mom’s photo cracked the case
James Spencer, a man on parole, house arrest, and electronic monitoring for a heinous crime committed 19 years ago, is back in the spotlight for allegedly sexually abusing a 6-year-old girl at a South Side bus stop. The incident took place last weekend, but thanks to the quick thinking of the girl’s mother, Spencer was identified and apprehended by authorities.
The girl and her family were waiting at a bus stop on the corner of State and 87th when Spencer approached them, behaving suspiciously. The mother noticed Spencer getting too close to her daughter and immediately intervened, pulling the girl away and warning Spencer not to touch her. Despite her efforts, Spencer managed to board the bus behind the family and allegedly made inappropriate contact with the girl before abruptly leaving the bus.
The mother, enraged by what had transpired, tracked down Spencer at a nearby grocery store and took a photo of him, which she later handed over to the police. Chicago authorities issued a community alert using the image, leading to an anonymous tip that identified Spencer as the suspect. When questioned by detectives, Spencer admitted to being present at the bus stop but claimed any contact with the girl was accidental.
During a detention hearing, prosecutors revealed Spencer’s violent criminal history, including two attacks on women in Boystown in 2007. In both instances, Spencer assaulted and sexually abused his victims, leading to a 15-year prison sentence for criminal sexual assault and robbery. He also received a concurrent five-year term for a burglary case linked to DNA evidence.
Spencer’s troubled past includes a 2006 arrest for forcible rape in Missouri, adding to his extensive record of retail theft and misdemeanor offenses. Even as a juvenile, Spencer had multiple run-ins with the law, including charges of robbery and theft.
It is clear that Spencer’s predatory behavior has continued despite his time behind bars, raising concerns about the effectiveness of parole and monitoring systems in preventing repeat offenses. The state is currently reviewing Spencer’s parole status in light of his latest arrest.
This disturbing case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilant parenting and community involvement in keeping our streets safe from individuals like James Spencer. The swift actions of the girl’s mother and the cooperation of the public were instrumental in bringing Spencer to justice once again.
