Teacher Charged With Sexually Exploiting Child

Bensenville police charged a Niles North teacher and cheerleading coach with sexual misdemeanor exploitation of a child Monday.

The teacher, Jeffrey Tackes, who lives in Bensenville, has resigned from Niles Township High School District 219. He is accused of coercing a child younger than 17 to remove her clothing for his sexual arousal or gratification, a Class A misdemeanor, according to police. 

“We take all allegations of this type very seriously, and we have been in communication with students who might have any relevant information, as well as their parents,” said Niles North Principal Dr. Ryan McTague.

District 219 is cooperating with the Bensenville Police Department, which arrested Tackes, as well as the Skokie Police Department and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, according to a statement on its website.

Tackes taught math at the high school and also coached the varsity cheerleading squad.

“Our number one priority is the safety and security of our students, and our student services team members are ready to respond to any level of student need,” said Principal McTague.

The female victim reported the abuse, which allegedly occurred in December 2010, according to police.

District 219's website statement encourages anyone with further information to call Bensenville Police Department Chief Frank Kosman at 630-594-1170.

Note - We should have a mugshot from police come Wednesday morning.