Chiropractor Pleads Guilty to Child Sexual Abuse Material Crimes
A chiropractor from Batavia has admitted guilt in a case involving the secret recording of nude or partially clothed patients, including minors. David Hanson, 44, confessed to producing and distributing child sexual abuse material involving individuals under the age of 13. This confession follows allegations made by at least 180 patients who visited his clinic.
Victims have brought lawsuits against Hanson and shared their experiences at a news conference outside the Kane County Judicial Center in St. Charles. One woman, who chose to go by Jenna, explained her encounter, having visited Hanson with her daughter for three years. She stated, “We placed our trust in Dave Hanson to care for our bodies, but our trust was horribly violated.” Jenna emphasized that patients should not be exploited, and parents should not have to explain such offenses to their children.
Another victim expressed feelings of anxiety and discomfort when visiting medical professionals or even trying on clothes in fitting rooms, worried about being recorded without consent.
Since November 2025, following Hanson’s arrest, eleven lawsuits cover over 64 victims. Prosecutors disclosed that Hanson faced 76 charges involving child sexual abuse material and unauthorized recordings. Hidden cameras were found in Hanson’s clinic rooms where patients underwent light therapies. The videos were shared via messaging platforms like Session, SimpleX, and Discord.
Batavia police initiated their investigation after receiving a tip in September 2025, leading to searches of Hanson’s home, clinic, and electronic equipment. Hidden cameras were discovered in air vents and fans. Charges revealed video recordings dating from 2016 to Hanson’s arrest in November 2025.
Attorney Elizabeth Fegan, representing some victims, suggested Hanson might have profited from these videos. Future actions could involve other parties if evidence emerges, including payment processors and banks. The building owners where Hanson operated are also under legal scrutiny for possibly knowing about the cameras due to their access to ventilation systems.
Attorney Grant Dixon acknowledged the Kane County prosecutors’ efforts, but stressed that justice for the victims is ongoing. He fears more victims could exist, stating, “I don’t think this even begins to scratch the surface of what this man actually did.”
Hanson’s chiropractic license is temporarily suspended. He has practiced in Illinois since 2013. Awaiting sentencing on November 10, Hanson could face a prison term of 12 to 60 years and will have to register as a sex offender permanently.