In a deeply troubling case that has shocked the community, 24-year-old Isaiah Fields of Batavia, Illinois, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for sexually assaulting and impregnating a severely disabled resident of the Marklund Hyde Center in Geneva. The victim, a 43-year-old woman with Rett syndrome—a neurological disorder rendering her unable to read, write, speak, or stand—has the cognitive abilities of an infant and had been a resident of the facility for approximately two decades.
The assault occurred between August 1 and September 5, 2023, when Fields was 22 years old and employed as a caregiver at the Marklund Hyde Center. His responsibilities included bathing, dressing, toileting, feeding, and providing other essential care to residents, including the victim. The crime came to light in April 2024 when the victim was hospitalized for liver and gallbladder issues; medical examinations revealed she was between 31 and 35 weeks pregnant and suffering from preeclampsia. An emergency Caesarean section was performed, and a baby boy was delivered. Tragically, the infant spent 11 weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit before passing away in July 2024.
A subsequent investigation by the Kane County Sheriff’s Office involved collecting DNA samples from current and former male employees of the facility. Fields’ DNA matched that of the newborn, leading to his arrest. In January 2025, he pleaded guilty to aggravated criminal sexual assault, a Class X felony in Illinois. During his sentencing on March 14, 2025, Fields attempted to apologize to the victim’s family, stating, “There is no reason or set of experiences that could justify hurting anyone in any way.”
Judge John Barsanti sentenced Fields to 25 years in prison, of which he must serve at least 85% before being eligible for parole. Upon release, Fields will be required to register as a sex offender for life under Illinois law.
This case underscores the profound vulnerability of individuals with severe disabilities and the paramount importance of safeguarding their well-being. Marklund CEO Gil Fonger expressed relief at the sentencing, stating, “We are satisfied to see justice served, and believe that we can all have a measure of closure to this evil act at long last.”
For those affected by sexual violence, confidential support is available 24/7 through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or via online chat at [RAINN.org](https://rainn.org/resources).
