82-Year-Old Sentenced to Maximum 12 Years for Sexually Abusing Teen

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An 82-year-old Bicknell, Indiana man has been sentenced to the maximum 12 years in prison after pleading guilty to sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl. The case was filed in 2021, but the abuse began years earlier. The Knox County prosecutor asked for the maximum sentence, citing the lasting harm to the victim and her family, as well as the defendant violating bond conditions by stalking the victim.

Why it matters

Sexual abuse cases involving minors are among the most serious crimes, with long-lasting trauma for victims and their families. This case highlights the importance of prosecutors seeking maximum sentences to protect the community and hold offenders fully accountable.

The details

Michael Jones, an 82-year-old Bicknell resident, pleaded guilty to a Level 4 felony charge of sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl. The abuse began years before the case was filed in 2021. Knox County Prosecutor Dirk Carnahan asked the court to impose the maximum 12-year sentence, citing the lasting harm to the victim and her family, as well as Jones violating bond conditions by stalking the victim.

• The case against Michael Jones was filed in 2021.
• The abuse began years before the case was filed in 2021.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.