By Jim Hagerty
Reporter

ROCKFORD – A 19-year veteran with the Rockford Police Department has been charged with sexual assault, authorities announced Wednesday. 

Daniel Basile, 51, of Roscoe, is charged with a single count of criminal sexual assault, a charge that stems from an incident involving an adult female victim that occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m., Friday, Oct. 11, at a residence in the 700 block of Regan Street. Detectives from Rockford’s Sensitive Crimes Unit responded to the scene the following day and identified Basile as a suspect.

“Basile was put on administrative leave upon the allegation and while the investigation was being conducted,” Police Chief Dan O’Shea said. “At the conclusion, (the case) was presented to Winnebago County State’s Attorney Marilyn Hite Ross’s office. They reviewed the case and authorized charges.”

Basile was off duty when the alleged incident occurred, O’Shea said. He was arrested Wednesday morning and is currently jailed on a $250,000 bond. His first court date is Thursday at 1:30.

“Officer Basile’s case will go through the court system just like any other arrest,” O’Shea said. “And like other arrest, he’s presumed innocent until proven guilty. He will remain on administrative leave until the conclusion of the criminal case.”

Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara was disturbed by the allegations.

“I’m angry and disappointed that one of our officers, Daniel Basile, has been charged with criminal sexual assault, as was announced today by the Winnebago County State’s Attorney,” McNamara said. “The seriousness of these allegations shows that no one is above the law, even members of law enforcement.”

Basile was hired by the Rockford Police Department on March 27, 2000.