People v. Heather M. Caldwell
Next Hearing
Appellate Oral Arguments
Wednesday, July 22, 2026
Lake County Circuit Court
Case Summary
Defendant convicted in February 2026 of aggravated kidnapping of a 7-year-old child. Sentenced to 25 years. Defense filed appeal in April 2026 citing improper jury instructions and ineffective assistance of counsel.
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Charges Filed
Aggravated Kidnapping
Child Abduction
Hearing Timeline
Illinois Appellate Court — 2nd District
Outcome: Appeal accepted. Oral arguments scheduled.
Lake County Circuit Court Hon. William P. Hartmann
Outcome: Sentenced to 25 years IDOC. No early release eligibility.
Lake County Circuit Court Hon. William P. Hartmann
Outcome: Jury verdict: Guilty on all counts.
Lake County Circuit Court Hon. William P. Hartmann
Outcome: Trial commenced.
Lake County Circuit Court Hon. William P. Hartmann
Outcome: Probable cause found.
Lake County Circuit Court Hon. William P. Hartmann
Outcome: Plea: Not Guilty. Remanded without bond.
Illinois Appellate Court — 2nd District
Note: Upcoming.
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Defendant
Heather M. Caldwell, age 38
Court
Lake County Circuit Court
Judge
Hon. William P. Hartmann
Prosecutor
ASA Cynthia Morales
Defense
Atty. Thomas Nguyen
Incident Date
August 4, 2025
Filed
August 10, 2025
Location
Waukegan, IL
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