Joseph Dale Green, 49, Osgood, pled guilty to sexual misconduct with a minor, a Class B felony, June 16, said Ripley County Prosecutor Ric Hertel.
“Green’s charge was the result of an Indiana State Police investigation into acts carried out on a 14-year-old victim,” he reported.
The suspect drove to a remote location before perpetrating sexual acts on the young victim in February 2008.
The state, represented by the prosecutor, recommended a 12-year sentence with two years suspended to probation. Hertel argued for justice for the victim, while the defense attorney asked the Ripley County Circuit Court for a break for the defendant.
Judge Carl Taul disagreed with the state, sentencing Green to 10 years of probation.
The defendant “will do no more jail time than the few days he served after being arrested by the state police before posting bond,” Hertel said. This type of offense carries a sentence of six to 20 years.
The judge also reinstated Green’s visitation rights with his 15-year-old daughter.
Hertel expressed disappointment and had little explanation for the victim’s father following the hearing.
He stated, “This is the court’s decision and it should be respected.” Under Indiana law, Green has to register as a sex offender.
