(CBS DETROIT) – A 59-year-old Bellaire man was sentenced to 17 to 40 years in prison after pleading no contest to repeatedly sexually abusing a child over several years.
John Hendrickson pleaded no contest in August to four counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct.
Hendrickson was charged in January with eight counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct after he was accused of sexually assaulting a minor between 1999 and 2007, when the victim was between 9 and 15 years old.
Officials allege Hendrickson attacked the child at a home and his vehicle in Leroy Township and the city of Allegan.
“Sexual assault is a heinous crime that leaves lasting scars,” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said in a statement. “I am grateful that we were able to achieve justice for the victim in this case without prolonging their suffering through a trial. The courage of the victim to come forward after years of abuse is truly inspiring. “I want to assure all victims of sexual violence that my The Department is committed to supporting survivors and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable, no matter how many years have passed.”
After serving his prison sentence, Hendrickson will be subject to lifelong electronic monitoring and sex offender registration.
