MORGANTOWN — A 23-year-old man who sexually abused a young girl faces up to 70 years in prison after pleading guilty in Monongalia County Circuit Court Tuesday.
Judge Susan Tucker accepted Gerald A. Hess’ guilty pleas for two counts of first-degree sexual abuse and one count of sexual abuse by a parent or guardian.
Stephen Fitz, prosecutor, told the court if the case had gone to trial the state would have proved that Hess abused a girl under the age of 7 multiple times from 2015 to 2017.
He said that the girl viewed Hess as a father figure and Hess was in a long-term relationship with the girl’s mother.
The girl said the abuse took place while her mother was away.
“I abused [the victim,]” Hess said. He also said he agreed with the events Fitz laid out.
The Dominion Post does not typically name the victims of sexual crimes.
Tucker explained to Hess that since his crimes involve a minor he is required to register for a sex offender for life upon his release.
Each count of first-degree sexual abuse is punishable by five-25 years in prison and a fine of $1,000-$5,000 because the victim’s age. Sexual abuse by a parent or guardian is punishable by 10-20 years in prison and a $500-$5,000 fine.
Hess was originally charged with two counts of first-degree sexual assault which carries a penalty of 25-100 years in prison because of his victim’s age.
The Dominion Post previously reported that DNA evidence tested by the State Police lab was consistent with Hess’ DNA.
Hess’ sentencing is set for September.
Story by William Dean