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CHILD SEX ABUSER SENTENCED TO 55 YEARS

Joseph Michael Jones was sentenced today by Judge Stephen M. Waldron to serve 38 years in prison of a 55 year sentence for sexually abusing a 5 year old boy in 2004.

Jones, who is 45 years old, was found guilty by a jury last month of sexual abuse of a minor, second degree sexual offense and third degree sex offense. The two day trial involved the now six year old taking the stand to face his abuser. "I was very proud of this little boy. It took an extreme amount of courage and strength on his part to face Mr. Jones in the courtroom", stated Lisa Hyle Marts,

Assistant State's Attorney who handled the case. The case was investigated by Det. Donald Waltemeyer, Aberdeen Police Department and the Harford County Child Advocacy Center.

Because a second degree sexual offense is deemed a crime of violence, Jones will not be eligible for parole, at the earliest, until 2015 and will have to register as a chil;d sex offender.

For information contact Joe Cassilly, State's Attorney 410-879-3204.