CHICAGO — A 38-year-old South Elgin man is facing 14 felony charges related to child pornography but has been released from custody under strict judicial conditions while awaiting his next court date, officials confirmed this week.
Colin McCambridge Charged With Possession and Distribution
The man, identified as Colin J. McCambridge, was charged following an investigation by the Kane County Child Exploitation Unit. The charges include:
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2 counts of disseminating moving depictions of child pornography
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2 counts of reproducing explicit content
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10 counts of possession of child pornography
Authorities allege McCambridge’s criminal activity spanned from November 8, 2024, through June 16, 2025, according to a joint report by the Daily Herald and FOX 32 Chicago.
The offenses involve both Class X and Class 2 felonies, signaling the severe nature of the allegations under Illinois law.
Judge Rejects Detention Request
During his first court appearance, Kane County prosecutors recommended that McCambridge be held in pretrial detention. However, a judge ruled to release him under strict pretrial conditions rather than ordering jail time.
Terms of Pretrial Release
McCambridge’s release conditions include:
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No internet access
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No contact with anyone under 18 years old
These terms were confirmed in a news release from the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office and Kane County Sheriff’s Office.
Officials said the ruling sparked discussions about balancing the presumption of innocence with the need to protect public safety, especially concerning cases involving potential harm to children.
Next Court Date Set for July
McCambridge is scheduled to return to court on July 23 at the Kane County Judicial Center. At that hearing, evidence will be reviewed and additional steps in the prosecution may be determined.
Until then, the South Elgin community remains unsettled by the allegations and the fact that the accused remains free under judicial supervision.
Do you believe pretrial release is appropriate in cases involving alleged child exploitation? Share your views in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
