Richmond stable owner accused of sexually assaulting child employee

Raymond Krussell ordered detained in McHenry County Jail after prosecutors say he groomed and assaulted a 15-year-old worker over a year-long period

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The owner of Krussell Stables in Richmond, Illinois has been arrested and ordered detained in McHenry County Jail on charges that he sexually assaulted and groomed a child employee, starting when she was 15 years old. Prosecutors say Raymond Krussell, 52, engaged in a year-long sexual relationship with the victim, who is now 18, and sent her explicit images when she was a minor.

Why it matters

This case highlights the vulnerability of young workers, especially in industries like equestrian centers that often employ minors. It raises concerns about the need for stronger oversight and protections for child employees, as well as the challenges of prosecuting cases of sexual abuse and grooming that occur over an extended period of time.

The details

According to prosecutors, Krussell first met the victim when she was a young child taking riding lessons at his stables. When she got older, he hired her to work for him in exchange for stable expenses. During this time, Krussell is alleged to have sent the victim sexually explicit images of himself via text messages, and then began sexually assaulting her at least once a week for approximately a year when she was 16 to 17 years old.

  • Krussell's sexual relationship with the victim began in January 2024, when she was 16 years old.
  • The relationship continued until February 2025, when the victim was 17 years old.

The players

Raymond Krussell

The 52-year-old owner of Krussell Stables in Richmond, Illinois, who has been charged with sexually assaulting and grooming a child employee.

The victim

An 18-year-old woman who reported that Krussell sexually abused her when she was 15 years old and working at his stables.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must protect our young people from predators who would exploit them. This case is deeply disturbing and we will prosecute it to the fullest extent of the law.”

— Randi Freese, McHenry County State's Attorney (lakemchenryscanner.com)

What’s next

Krussell is scheduled to appear in court again on Tuesday, where a judge will decide whether to grant him bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger safeguards and oversight to protect minors employed in industries like equestrian centers, where they may be vulnerable to exploitation and abuse by those in positions of authority.