EDWARDSVILLE — Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine announced that a Granite City man convicted of felony sex offenses against a girl has been sentenced to 25 years in prison. Eli L. Winters, 26, received the sentence after pleading guilty Tuesday to Child Sexual Abuse Material (a Class X felony) and Criminal Sexual Abuse (a Class 4 felony).
Winters pleaded guilty to filming himself engaged in a sex act with a minor girl in December 2024. “This predator’s conduct is unconscionable and abhorrent,” Haine said.
“Our prayers remain with the victim. Nothing can undo her trauma, but our hope is that this conviction and sentence will provide a measure of justice.” The case was investigated by the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, which in March 2026 reopened an investigation into allegations concerning Winters and the victim after receiving additional information from a social services agency.
Winters eventually admitted to police that he had a “relationship” with the girl, resulting in her giving birth to a child. Charges against Winters were filed in May 2026, shortly after the investigation was reopened. In addition to the prison term, the conviction means Winters is subject to lifetime registration as a sex offender. He also is required to serve three years to life of mandatory supervised release, formerly known as parole. The case was prosecuted by Assistant State’s Attorney Rebecca Buettner.
Haine commended Buettner and Sheriff’s Office investigators. “Cases involving child victims require exceptional sensitivity, meticulous preparation and unwavering dedication,” Haine said. “Everyone involved demonstrated those qualities throughout this investigation and prosecution. We will continue working alongside law enforcement to identify offenders, support victims and hold those responsible fully accountable.”
He added: “This defendant preyed upon a vulnerable teenager. Anyone who believes they can exploit a child in Madison County without facing severe consequences should take notice of this sentence.”
