Police: Park Ridge Man Assaults Teen Walking Home

A Park Ridge resident attacked and ripped the shorts off a 16-year-old girl on Aug. 15 around 5 p.m., Park Ridge police stated.

Anthony M. Nugent, 37, of Park Ridge, was charged with one count of aggravated battery, a class 3 felony. Nugent was also charged with misdemeanor possession of cannabis.

According to police, the victim was walking in the 900 block of Home Avenue. At that time, Nugent allegedly asked the girl what she was carrying. The victim responded that it was a musical instrument and continued walking, police said. Nugent then followed the victim and allegedly began acting aggressively when the victim refused to show him her instrument. Nugent then allegedly grabbed the victim and threw her to the ground. A struggle ensued between the two and Nugent grabbed at the victim’s shorts and "ripped them," according to police. Nugent then began spanking the victim's buttocks numerous times, police said.

A witness driving by the incident stopped and called 911, which caused Nugent to flee the area, according to police. Officers from the Park Ridge Police Department, however, were able to quickly find and locate Nugent.

The victim suffered bruises and abrasions, police said. Nugent is currently being held on a $250,000 bond. His court date is not yet available at this time.