Pontiac man found guilty of home invasion and sexual abuse

Burton remains behind bars at the McLean County jail until he’s sentenced in March. (Photo courtesy: WJBC/File)

By Blake Haas

PONTIAC – A Pontiac man awaits a sentencing hearing after being found guilty of home invasion and sexual abuse that happened in 2021.

During a jury trial, McLean County Prosecutors argued that 49-year-old Brent Burton had broken into a woman’s home in LeRoy and sexually touched her while she was sleeping.

The woman was able to call the police, who found Burton standing in the victim’s kitchen.

“The McLean County State’s Attorney’s Office thanks the victim for being patient as we sought justice in this manner,” said McLean County State’s Attorney Erika Reynolds. “It is our hope that this restores the victim’s peace of mind on her road to recovery.”

With the guilty verdict, Burton awaits sentencing at a hearing on March 25 at the McLean County Law and Justice Center.

At the hearing, a judge could sentence Burton anywhere from six to 35 years in prison.

Burton remains behind bars at the McLean County jail.

Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected].

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