Richardson Sentenced to 40 Years for Two Level 1 Felony Child Molestation Convictions

Tara Coats Hunt, Washington County Prosecutor, announced that Michael Richardson, 33, of Salem, was sentenced yesterday afternoon, August 19th, by Circuit Court Judge Larry W. Medlock, to 40 years in the Indiana Department of Correction after entering an open guilty plea to two Level 1 felony counts of Child Molestation. Michael Richardson entered an open guilty plea to two counts of Level 1 felony Child Molestation involving two separate minor victims. Richard, being a person of at least 21 years of age, admitted he did knowingly or intentionally perform or submit to sexual intercourse or other sexual conduct with two minor victims, both under 14 years of age. The offenses occurred in Washington County, Indiana. “This defendant’s actions caused profound harm to two children who should have been protected from this type of abuse,” said Prosecutor Tara Coats Hunt. “While no sentence can undo what these victims have endured, this sentence holds the defendant accountable for his actions and recognizes the seriousness of the crimes committed against these children.” “Child molestation cases are among the most serious cases handled by this office. Our responsibility is to pursue justice while protecting the dignity and privacy of child victims throughout the criminal justice process. We will continue to aggressively prosecute individuals who sexually abuse children and seek significant consequences when the evidence supports those charges.” The two minor victims have suffered greatly as a result of the defendant’s conduct. The Prosecutor’s Office recognizes the courage required of child victims and their families to come forward and participate in the criminal justice process. “Our thoughts remain with these two victims and their families as they continue to deal with the lasting impact of these crimes,” Prosecutor Hunt said. “Justice in these cases is not simply about a number of years imposed at sentencing. It is about making clear that children deserve to be safe, that those who abuse them will be held accountable, and that this community will not tolerate sexual abuse of children.” The conviction also carries significant long-term consequences for Richardson. Because of the nature and level of the convictions, Richardson qualifies as a Serious Violent Felon, a Sexually Violent Predator, and Offender against Children under Indiana law and will be subject to lifetime registration as a sex offender, subject to applicable Indiana law. The Washington County Prosecutor’s Office remains committed to aggressively investigating and prosecuting crimes involving the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. In recent years, the office has seen an increase in both convictions and significant sentences in child sex crime cases, reflecting its continued commitment to holding offenders accountable and protecting vulnerable victims. “These cases are a priority for this office,” said Prosecutor Hunt. “We will continue to seek appropriate charges, pursue convictions, and advocate for meaningful sentences in cases involving the sexual abuse of children. Protecting children and holding those who victimize them accountable is one of our highest responsibilities.” Prosecutor Hunt also expressed appreciation for Chief Deputy Prosecutor Melissa Campbell and Victim Advocate Jessica Lanham for the work and dedication involved in bringing this case to a successful resolution. “Cases involving the sexual abuse of children require tremendous care, preparation, and commitment,” said Prosecutor Hunt. “I want to specifically thank Chief Deputy Melissa Campbell for the hard work, attention to detail, and dedication to seeking justice for these two minor victims. The outcome in this case reflects the commitment of our entire office to holding individuals who commit these horrific crimes accountable.” The Prosecutor’s Office extends its appreciation to Detective Travis Baker of the Indiana State Police, Washington County Department of Child Services, the Comfort House Child Advocacy Center, and the other professionals who assisted in the investigation and prosecution of this case. Case Information: • Defendant: MICHAEL RICHARDSON, 33 • Charges: Two counts Level 1 Felony Child Molestation • Plea: Guilty • Sentence: 40 years • Judge: CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE LARRY W. MEDLOCK • Cause Number: CAUSE NUMBER 88C01-2405-F1-000341 CAUSE NUMBER 88C01-2407-F1-000494 • Investigating Agency: INDIANA STATE POLICE • Prosecuting Attorney: TARA COATS HUNT