Accused “Peeping Tom” Held on $260K Bond

Aurora man tied to other peeping incident, burglaries, trespassing

A 24-year-old Aurora man who works with children at a YMCA and two schools is being held on a $260,000 bond in connection with several "Peeping Tom" incidents near his home.

Erik S. Paxton, of the 100 block of South Rosedale Avenue, is charged with two counts of residential burglary, one count of criminal trespass to a residence, and three misdemeanor counts of disorderly conduct.

The 24-year-old was arrested Sunday at his home in connection with a peeping incident the night earlier. Police said a resident of nearby South Westlawn Avenue told them he saw man running from his backyard. The man left behind a step stool which would have allowed someone to look into the window of his underage daughter's bedroom.

A similar incident at the house was reported in April, police said.

Police said Paxton was questioned after the incident Saturday because he fit the description of the man seen running from the backyard. He was ultimately released, but police questioned him again on Sunday.

"Officers were able to gather enough probable cause based on Paxton’s own statements and they took him into custody without incident," Chief Gregory Thomas said in a statement.

Authorities later executed a search warrant on Paxton's home and found other items which lead to additional charges.

Police allege Paxton entered the home on Westlawn Avenue home on May 6, and another home on Central on March 22, taking several items of girl’s clothing. Those items were found at his home, police said.

And on May 3, Paxton allegedly entered a home in the 300 block of South Central, knowing it was occupied by three adults, ages 54, 62, and 80. He watched the residents as they slept, but was scared off by a barking dog, authorities said.

YMCA officials said they've been in contact with authorities since his arrest. Paxton was hired by the Y in September 2011 after successful completion of a background check, said Sherrie Medina, the Vice-President of Communications for the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago.

Medina said no complaints were ever lodged against Paxton during his employment.

Police said they do not yet know if Paxton has had inappropriate contact with children, but said further charges are likely.

Paxton remains in the Kane County Correctional Facility. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 30.

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