In a decisive move by a St. Louis judge, 56-year-old Andre Elgin was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole, tacking on an additional 52 years, for his sexual offenses against a child. The sentencing took place yesterday. As reported by the Circuit Attorney's office, Elgin was convicted in June of crimes that unfolded at his South St. Louis home.
During the period of January through May 2023, evidence revealed that Elgin, already a registered sex offender due to prior convictions for rape and sodomy of minors, repeatedly abused a young girl who visited his residence in the 5400 block of Alabama Avenue, according to statements from the Circuit Attorney's office. The presence of adults, aside from Elgin, was notably absent when these abuses occurred. A jury found Elgin guilty of first-degree sodomy, three counts of second-degree child molestation, and sexual misconduct involving a child under 15, designating him as a persistent sexual offender.
The gravity of Elgin's past combined with the new offenses resulted in a mandatory life sentence. Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore highlighted the message this sentencing is supposed to convey. "Every child deserves to grow up safe and free from harm," he said. "Today’s sentence sends a clear message that those who exploit and betray that trust will face the full measure of justice," according to the Circuit Attorney's news release.
Assistant Circuit Attorneys Carley Johansson and Homicide Unit Deputy Chief Carolyn Chkautovich prosecuted the case. In a statement from the Circuit Attorney’s Office, Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore emphasized the importance of protection and accountability.
