Crystal Lake Stepdad Sentenced: ‘Caring Dad’ or ‘Predator’?

UPDATE: A Crystal Lake man, Christopher Hopp, faces imminent sentencing for his role in a disturbing case involving the secret filming of his stepdaughter. Prosecutors label him a “predator” while the defense argues he is merely a “caring dad” caught in a chaotic family situation. The court is set to announce Hopp’s fate on August 19, 2023.

During the second day of Hopp’s sentencing hearing, starkly contrasting narratives emerged regarding the discovery of a hidden pen camera in a bathroom where his then-16-year-old stepdaughter was showering. Hopp pleaded guilty to two felonies: possessing 50 to 200 grams of psilocybin and unauthorized video recording. The lesser charge carries a potential sentence of probation to three years, while the drug conviction could lead to up to 14 years in prison.

Prosecutors are pushing for a lengthy prison sentence, citing the emotional and psychological impact on the victim, who tragically died from an accidental drug overdose last year. Hopp’s defense contends that his actions were misguided attempts to protect the girl during a period of escalating mental health crises, which included a previous suicide attempt involving 28 pills.

“The filming was not for perverse reasons… It was to help my daughter,” Hopp asserted during the hearing.

Testimonies revealed that the girl had been struggling with severe behavioral issues and had been in and out of mental health facilities. Hopp claimed that both he and her mother, Corinne Breskovich, were trying to get her the help she needed. However, the prosecution painted a grim picture of a dysfunctional home environment, alleging that both Hopp and Breskovich often belittled the girl.

After finding the hidden camera on January 25, 2023, the stepdaughter reported feeling unsafe in her home, fearing there might be more cameras. Following the couple’s arrest, she moved in with her biological father. Authorities noted that Hopp had been previously accused of similar behavior while serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he faced allegations of secretly filming a sexual encounter.

In court, Hopp expressed remorse, stating, “I want Your Honor to know this is a terrible situation.” He emphasized the hardships he faced, including losing custody of his young child, his job, and his business.

As the defense continues to argue for probation, the prosecution remains firm in their stance against Hopp, alleging that his actions reflect a pattern of predatory behavior. Assistant State’s Attorney Maria Marek criticized Hopp, calling him a “very well-rehearsed puppet” and asserted that the hidden recordings were for his own gratification.

In a shocking twist, Breskovich, who also faced drug charges, admitted in court that she was aware of the pen camera, describing it as a “last-ditch effort” to monitor her daughter. She has since been sentenced to probation for her charges.

The courtroom is set for a decisive moment on August 19, as Judge Mark Gerhardt prepares to announce Hopp’s sentence. The community watches closely, as this case highlights the complexities of familial relationships amid turmoil.

As this story develops, it raises critical questions about parental responsibility, mental health, and the legal system’s response to such sensitive issues. Stay tuned for updates on Hopp’s sentencing and its implications for the Crystal Lake community.