Washington, IL — The small community of Washington, Illinois, is at the center of a disturbing case that has sparked outrage and debate after 43-year-old Robyn Polston was accused of grooming and sexually abusing her teenage daughter’s 14-year-old ex-boyfriend. Authorities say Polston ultimately gave birth to a child allegedly fathered by the boy, but despite the serious accusations, she has not yet been arrested or charged.
Allegations of Abuse
Investigators allege Polston lured the teenager into her home after convincing his grandparents she would provide support. Instead, officials say she engaged in a months-long sexual relationship with him, during which she became pregnant.
Online photos that have surfaced show Polston posing with the boy in a maternity-style shoot. Witnesses claim she told the photographer the boy was 25 years old but “just had a baby face.”
Reports further suggest Polston baptized the infant using the teenager’s last name and openly discussed details of the child’s father in a breastfeeding support group, describing the boy’s physical build.
DNA Test Results Pending
A DNA sample was collected roughly four months ago, but authorities say results could take several more months due to severe backlogs at the state crime lab. Police in Washington insist they cannot move forward with criminal charges until those results confirm the child’s paternity.
This delay has left Polston free while the alleged victim, now living in a nearby town, continues attending high school.
Public Frustration and Debate
The lack of immediate action has fueled public anger. Many residents argue that if the genders were reversed—if a man were accused of impregnating a 14-year-old girl—an arrest would have been swift.
“This is a double standard,” one concerned parent said. “If a man had done this, he’d already be sitting in jail. Instead, this woman is walking free with no accountability while a child’s life is permanently changed.”
Critics have directed their frustration toward both the State’s Attorney’s Office and the Washington Police Department, questioning why Polston has not been taken into custody while the case is pending.
Broader Issues Raised
The case has reignited debate about how the justice system handles sexual abuse when the accused is female, as well as highlighting systemic issues caused by forensic backlogs. Authorities acknowledge the frustration but insist the investigation remains active and ongoing.
As of now, officials have not provided a firm timeline for when the DNA results will be completed, leaving the community in limbo as the case drags on.