Man sentenced to life in prison on sex charges

Authorities said a man convicted of sex crimes involving a child is headed to prison.

On Monday, Miami County Common Pleas Judge Christopher Gee sentenced Joel Pratt, 34, of Tipp City, to life plus 20 and a half years in prison. In May, Pratt was indicted on 20 counts of rape of a child under the age of 10.

Pratt was also charged with three counts of pandering sexually oriented matter involving a juvenile, along with two counts of pandering obscenity involving a minor.

Judge Gee said Pratt is "a significant threat to society," and he will have to register as a tier III sex offender for the rest of his life.

Miami County Assitant Prosecutor Tony Kendell recommended that the defendant spend the rest of his life behind bars.

"The state and law enforcement feel that this defendant cannot be helped no matter how many resources are thrown his way," Kendell said.

When asked for a statement, Pratt simply stated: "There's nothing I can say to defend my actions, your honor."