Batavia, Illinois – A Kane County grand jury has indicted chiropractor David Hanson on 76 felony counts, including charges related to child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and unauthorized video recording. The indictment follows an investigation that began in November 2025, alleging Hanson secretly filmed patients at his chiropractic office, Hanson Family Chiropractic, and disseminated some of those recordings online. The case has raised serious concerns about patient privacy and the potential for exploitation, prompting a continuing investigation to identify and support potential victims.
The charges against Hanson, 66, represent a significant escalation from the initial allegations made public last year. Authorities allege that between January 1, 2016, and November 5, 2025, Hanson engaged in a pattern of criminal behavior involving the creation, possession, and distribution of illicit material. The scope of the alleged offenses, encompassing over 180 patients, underscores the gravity of the situation and the extensive nature of the investigation.
The Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office announced the indictment on February 20, 2026, detailing the specific charges. These include 19 counts of creating child sexual abuse material, 24 counts of disseminating child sexual abuse material, and one count of reproducing child sexual abuse material – all classified as Class X felonies in Illinois, punishable by six to 30 years in prison upon conviction. According to the State’s Attorney’s Office, Hanson also faces 22 counts of possession of child sexual abuse material and 10 counts of unauthorized video recording.
Investigation Uncovers Extensive Secret Recording
The investigation, which began with reports of unauthorized video recording within Hanson Family Chiropractic, quickly expanded to include allegations of CSAM. Authorities discovered that Hanson allegedly used hidden cameras “secretly placed throughout his chiropractic office” to record patients while undressing or unclothed. The Kane County Chronicle reported that many of these recordings were made in a “red light room” used for red light and near-infrared light therapy. The victims ranged in age from children to adults, with the majority being female.
Further investigation revealed that Hanson allegedly disseminated videos of his own patients online, adding another layer of complexity and severity to the case. Sixteen of the indicted counts specifically relate to the dissemination of CSAM originating from his chiropractic practice. Authorities believe Hanson acted alone in these alleged offenses, but the full extent of the distribution network remains under investigation.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Penalties
David Hanson is currently being held in the Kendall County Jail. His next court date is scheduled for March 12, 2026, where he will formally respond to the charges. The Class X felony charges carry significant penalties, with potential sentences ranging from six to 30 years in prison for each count. Given the sheer number of counts – 76 in total – Hanson could face a lengthy prison sentence if convicted on all charges. The legal process will involve pre-trial motions, evidence presentation, and a potential jury trial.
The unauthorized video recording charges, while less severe than the CSAM-related offenses, still carry felony penalties. These charges highlight the violation of patient privacy and the breach of trust inherent in the alleged actions. Illinois law strictly regulates video recording, particularly in private settings like medical offices, and requires explicit consent from all parties involved.
Victim Support and Ongoing Investigation
Recognizing the potential trauma experienced by the victims, the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office has established hotlines to provide support and gather information. The Child Exploitation Unit is actively working to identify and contact potential victims who may have been unaware that they were being recorded. Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact investigators at 630-444-3322 or via email at [email protected].
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to analyze evidence and pursue leads. The focus remains on identifying all victims and ensuring that Hanson is held accountable for his alleged actions. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of patient privacy and the need for robust safeguards to prevent such abuses from occurring in the future. The State’s Attorney’s office is committed to providing resources and support to those affected by this alleged crime.
Understanding Class X Felonies in Illinois
In Illinois, Class X felonies are the most serious category of criminal offenses. These crimes carry the most severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and potential life imprisonment. According to the Illinois Compiled Statutes, Class X felonies include offenses such as first-degree murder, aggravated criminal sexual assault, and, as in this case, the creation and dissemination of child sexual abuse material. The severity of the penalties reflects the gravity of the offenses and the potential harm they cause to individuals and society.
The Role of Red Light Therapy Rooms in the Investigation
The fact that many of the alleged recordings took place in a “red light room” used for red light and near-infrared light therapy has drawn attention to the potential for privacy violations in wellness settings. These rooms are often used for therapeutic purposes, and patients may be required to undress or wear minimal clothing during treatment. The investigation highlights the need for clear policies and procedures to protect patient privacy in such environments.
Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, is a growing field in wellness, but it also presents unique challenges in terms of privacy and security. Chiropractors and other healthcare providers offering this type of treatment must ensure that they are complying with all applicable laws and regulations regarding video recording and patient confidentiality.
The case involving David Hanson underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to prevent abuse and protect vulnerable individuals. The Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office is committed to pursuing justice for the victims and ensuring that those responsible for such heinous crimes are held accountable.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus will remain on gathering evidence, protecting the rights of the accused, and providing support to the victims. The next court date on March 12th will be a crucial step in the process, and further updates will be provided as they grow available.
If you or someone you know has been affected by this case, please reach out for help. The Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office encourages anyone with information to contact investigators at 630-444-3322 or [email protected].
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