Johnston County Man Sentenced to 73 Years for Child Sex Crimes

Paul Richard Yenchik convicted of multiple sex offenses against a minor with autism

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 58-year-old man from Johnston County, North Carolina has been sentenced to up to 73 years in prison for sexually abusing a child with autism over a period of years. Paul Richard Yenchik was convicted on several charges, including statutory sex offense, indecent liberties with a child, and first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, after threatening to release a nude photo of the victim to the child's mother.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious and long-lasting impact of child sexual abuse, especially against vulnerable victims like those with autism. It also demonstrates how perpetrators may use technology and blackmail to further exploit their victims. The lengthy sentence reflects the gravity of Yenchik's crimes and the justice system's commitment to protecting minors from such predatory behavior.

The details

Yenchik was convicted after a week-long trial where the jury heard testimony about the years-long sexual abuse of a boy with autism. The abuse came to light when Yenchik, the boy's mother's ex-boyfriend, emailed the mother a nude photo of the victim and threatened to release it if she did not reactivate his cellphone service. Yenchik was arrested in Largo, Florida in May 2025 after the mother reported him to the Johnston County Sheriff's Office.

  • Yenchik was arrested on Friday, May 2, 2025.
  • Yenchik was convicted on Monday in a Johnston County court.

The players

Paul Richard Yenchik

A 58-year-old man from Johnston County, North Carolina who was convicted of sexually abusing a child with autism over a period of years.

Johnston County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that investigated the case and arrested Yenchik in Largo, Florida.

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What’s next

Yenchik will be sentenced to up to 73 years in prison for his crimes.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical need to protect minors, especially those with disabilities, from sexual predators who may exploit vulnerabilities and use technology to further victimize children. It is a sobering reminder of the importance of vigilance, reporting, and robust prosecution to ensure justice and prevent such heinous acts.