Crime & Safety
Former Vernon Hills Business Owner Charged with Sex Crimes
Richard Baron, the owner of Kung Fu Power in Highland Park, which was previously located in Vernon Hills, was charged with promoting prostitution and solicitation of a sexual act, according to police.
This post was written by Editor Angela Sykora.
The owner of Kung Fu Power in Highland Park has been charged with promoting prostitution and solicitation of a sexual act, according to a Highland Park Police Department press release.
Richard Baron, 33, of Highland Park, was arrested Aug. 6 after a complaint was brought to the police department on July 29.
Baron used to operate a studio in Vernon Hills before opening in Highland Park in May.
"As soon as the complainant came forward, the Highland Park Police Department launched an immediate investigation," said Police Chief Paul Shafer. "Our police department takes all information provided by the public seriously and investigates all claims thoroughly and expeditiously."
With the assistance of the complainant, the Lake County Sheriff’s Department and investigators from the Lake County State’s Attorney Office, the Highland Park Police Department was able to obtain enough information to lead to an arrest, according to the press release.
"The Highland Park Police Department continues to do exemplary work and we appreciate their swift action in this case," said Mayor Nancy Rotering.
Search warrants obtained from case related information were executed at the time of Baron’s arrest. Baron was transported to the Lake County Court building on Aug. 6, where bond was set at $25,000.
Baron told the Chicago Tribune the charges were blown out of proportion and that he "made some personal mistakes but that the charges didn't accurately portray what happened and had nothing to do with his martial arts studio."
Baron is due in court Aug. 15, reported the Tribune.
Baron, owner of Kung Fu Power located at 1770 First Street in Highland Park, opened his Highland Park location in May 2013. His studio was previously located in Vernon Hills.
Anyone with additional information regarding this case is asked to contact the Highland Park Police Department at (847) 432-7730 or their local law enforcement agency.
Read more on Patch:
Power of Kung Fu Comes to Highland Park
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