Staff member of IL children’s home facing sexual assault charges

WHITE CO., Ill. (WFIE) - A 41-year-old man in White County is now in custody on many criminal sexual assault charges.

According to the White County Sheriff’s Department, deputies were alerted earlier this week about a juvenile victim, who accused Daniel Lanning of sexually assaulting her on several occasions.

Lanning was arrested Friday.

A newsletter from Illinois Baptist State Association says Lanning is a staff member of the Baptist Children’s Home and Family Services of Illinois.

They say the victim is a resident of their facility in Carmi.

Officials say Lanning and his wife have served as house parents in a BCHFS cottage since July 2021.

They say his wife was not implicated in the investigation.

The head of the ministry also reports a thorough background check was conducted at the time Lanning was hired with no incidents reported.

“We are fully cooperating with investigators,” said Interim Executive Director Doug Devore. “The care of our residents is very important to us, and we have extensive policies in place in an ongoing effort to protect the children in our care.” There will be a thorough review of BCHFS policies and practices, Devore said.

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