Kewanee man charged with possessing child abuse material and sexual assault of a second victim

A Kewanee man faces multiple felony charges following an investigation by the Kewanee Police Department. Joseph Hardy, 19, was arrested on June 2, 2026, and is accused of possessing and soliciting child sexual abuse material involving one victim, as well as three counts of criminal sexual assault involving a second victim. All charges are categorized as Class 1 and Class 3 felonies in Illinois, with potential sentences of 4 to 15 years in prison for each Class 1 offense. Hardy’s next court appearance is scheduled for June 8th at 1 PM at the Henry County Courthouse. Hardy is charged with Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material (Class 3 Felony) and Solicitation of Child Sexual Abuse Material (Class 1 Felony) for victim 1. He is charged with three counts of Criminal Sexual Assault (Class 1 Felony) for victim 2.

The Kewanee Police Department is urging community members to come forward if they believe they may have been victims of Joseph Hardy. Authorities are also seeking anyone with information relevant to their ongoing investigation. Individuals with details are encouraged to contact the Kewanee Police Department by calling 309-853-1911.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.