Guilty Plea in Batavia Chiropractor Case Involving Child Sexual Abuse Material

A former chiropractor from Batavia, David Hanson, pleaded guilty to producing and distributing child sexual abuse material involving individuals under 13. The 44-year-old, previously residing on the 1100 block of Challenge Road, admitted to these felony charges on Thursday.

Victims Speak Out

Following the court proceedings, victims addressed the press outside the Kane County Judicial Center. A woman named Jenna shared her experience, explaining that she and her daughter had visited Hanson for three years. She expressed feeling a deep betrayal of trust, emphasizing the violation of privacy they suffered.

“We placed our trust in Dave Hanson, not only to care for our bodies, but to provide us with the privacy and dignity that we expect and deserve from every medical professional,” she stated. “And we now know that trust was horribly violated.”

Jenna also highlighted the emotional toll on parents who must discuss the offenses with their children. Another victim shared how the situation has made her feel vulnerable during routine activities like medical visits or trying on clothes in fitting rooms.

Legal Actions

As of now, 11 lawsuits involving over 64 victims have been filed against Hanson since his arrest in November 2025. Prosecutors charged him with 76 counts, including child sexual abuse material crimes and unauthorized video recording. They allege he recorded videos in his clinic rooms, often used for red-light and near-infrared light therapy. These videos were reportedly shared on platforms such as Session, SimpleX, and Discord.

The investigation began in September 2025. Police received information that Hanson possessed illegal material, leading them to search his home, clinic, and electronic devices. Hidden cameras were found in vents and fans within the clinic, according to some victim lawsuits.

The videos date back to 2016, with the last being captured on the day of Hanson’s arrest.

Potential Broader Implications

Attorney Elizabeth Fegan, representing some victims, suspects Hanson may have sold the videos. If proven, this raises prospects of pursuing other defendants such as banks and payment processors. The owners of the building housing Hanson’s practice face a lawsuit for alleged negligence in preventing the camera installations.

Attorney Grant Dixon acknowledged the efforts of Kane County prosecutors but cautioned that much work remains to secure justice for all victims. Dixon believes more individuals may have been affected by Hanson’s actions.

“I don’t think this (the plea) even begins to scratch the surface of what this man actually did,” he noted.

Professional and Legal Repercussions

Hanson’s chiropractic license, active since 2013, is currently suspended pending legal outcomes. His sentencing is set for November 10, where he could face 12 to 60 years in prison. Possible extended-term sentencing remains, and he will be required to register as a sex offender for life.