A Piqua man found guilty of sexual battery of a person younger than 13 between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2013, was sentenced Monday to five years in prison after he continued to maintain his innocence.
Benjamin W. Burchett, 42, originally faced three felony rape indictments alleging sexual conduct with a minor. In January, he entered an Alford plea of guilty to felony sexual battery in Miami County Common Pleas Court.
The rape charges, filed in 2018, were dismissed. In an Alford plea, the defendant admits prosecutors can prove the charges, but still maintains his innocence.
“I maintain my innocence. I would never have done anything to any child. I am disgusted by the whole thing,” Burchett told Judge Stacy Wall at sentencing.
Assistant Prosecutor Janna Parker said prosecutors were happy to see the case come to a resolution.
“We believe the victim in this case, and support her,” Parker said.
As part of a plea deal, prosecutors agreed to recommend the 60 months in prison, the maximum sentence for the charge.
Wall said Burchett didn’t have a prior criminal record. She noted the victim suffered emotional harm and had nightmares
Burchett will be designated a Tier III sex offender. The designation will require him, following prison release, to register his address in the county where he lives for the rest of his life.
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