A former Wheaton College professor pleaded not guilty Thursday to charges of child pornography possession.
Donald E. Ratcliff, 60, of the 1N0-100 block of Falcon Trail, Carol Stream, entered his plea at an arraignment in DuPage County court. Earlier in the day, a Wheaton College spokeswoman said Ratcliff was fired March 14.
Ratcliff, who was arrested earlier this month and indicted by a grand jury this week, is charged with seven counts of felony child pornography. He is being held in the county jail in lieu of $300,000 bail.
Authorities said they discovered hundreds of illicit images on computers seized when Ratcliff’s home was searched by police.
At Thursday’s brief hearing, Ratcliff’s attorney, Dan Collins, asked Judge John Kinsella to order a psychological evaluation of his client.
Ratcliff had been employed by Wheaton College since 2006. The college had placed him on leave after his arrest.
Ratcliff’s educational background is in child development.
According to county court records, Ratcliff’s wife has initiated divorce proceedings. The couple married in Laredo, Texas, in 1978, and are the parents of three adult children, according to records.
If found guilty, Ratcliff faces three to seven years in prison for each count. He also could receive probation or periodic imprisonment.
Tribune reporter Michelle Manchir contributed.
