An Elgin woman will spend the next two decades behind bars for the “intentional torture” and starvation of a young child.
Eulalia Vences, 55, was sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to aggravated battery involving great bodily harm.
The sentence comes after a three-year period of severe neglect that nearly cost a 7-year-old child their life.
The Details of the Abuse
Between March 2021 and March 2024, prosecutors say Vences and a co-defendant, Natali Cruz-Gemchi, systematically starved the child.
The abuse came to light in March 2024 when the child was rushed to Saint Joseph Hospital in Elgin. At the time, the 7-year-old was:
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In cardiac arrest and unresponsive.
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Weighing only 14 pounds.
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Showing signs of physical and psychological torture.
While doctors managed to stabilize the child, officials say the victim faces a lifetime of medical and psychiatric complications.
Assistant State’s Attorney Lori Schmidt described the case as one of the most disturbing of her career.
“For an adult to neglect, torture, and starve a child in their care… is both unforgivable and horrendous,” Schmidt said. She noted that the 20-year sentence ensures Vences is held accountable for the “wanton disregard” of an innocent life.
What’s Next
Under Illinois law, Vences must serve at least 85% of her sentence. She received credit for nearly 600 days already spent in the Kane County Jail.
The case against the child’s mother, Natali Cruz-Gemchi, is still pending. She remains in custody at the Kane County Jail.
