DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Woodridge Chief of Police Tom Stefanson recently announced that a Lombard man has been accused of inappropriately touching a minor girl at a Woodridge water park.
Ricky Karlic, 61, of the 500 block of Kelly Court, appeared in court on Saturday, July 11, and was charged with one count of aggravated battery in a public place (Class 3 felony). Following his appearance in court, as the charge against Karlic is not-detainable, he was released with conditions ordering that he have no contact with the victim or any minors under the age of 18 years of age, and that he shall not enter or remain on the property or premises of Cypress Cove Family Aquatic Park.
According to a complaint filed against Karlic, it is alleged that on Friday, July 10, at approximately 5:32 p.m., Karlic “made physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature” with the victim “in that said defendant touched the victim's buttocks with his hand while in the lazy river” at the water park.
“The allegation that Mr. Karlic inappropriately touched a young girl at a public water park is extremely disturbing,” Berlin said on July 11. “Today’s charge sends the message that in DuPage County we are committed to keeping our public recreational facilities safe for all to enjoy.”
“While this incident is concerning, Woodridge and its parks are safe areas for all to enjoy,” Stefanson said. “I appreciate the alert from Park District staff and the quick response of Woodridge police officers and detectives in locating the suspect who was trying to leave the area.”
Karlic’s next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 3, in front of Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh.
