Lear pleads guilty to Gross Sexual Imposition
By Bob Robinson 

GREENVILLE – On Aug. 12 Joseph Lear pleaded guilty to Gross Sexual Imposition, a Felony 4 offense. This will automatically label him a Tier 1 sexual offender, required to register with the local sheriff for 15 years. 

The Felony 3 charge of Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor had been set for trial, but the victim couldn’t be found. According to Darke County Prosecutor R. Kelly Ormsby she had moved out of state with her family. 

“We didn’t find out they had moved until the last minute. If it had been necessary, I believe they would have come back for the trial,” Ormsby said. “However, the family is comfortable with the plea, so a trial isn’t necessary.” 

The prosecution is asking for 90 days in jail, 15 years registration as a sexual offender, a $500 fine and community service hours. 

Darke County Judge Jon Hein advised the defendant of the implications of his plea, noting the only right to appeal he will have is the sentencing. He is pleading guilty to the crime. Maximum sentence is 18 months in prison with a $5,000 fine. 

Hein questioned Lear about his health, alcohol intake, drugs… “I had a couple beers on Saturday. Had a little weed about a month ago, but I want to get a job in Piqua instead of out of state,” Lear said. “I had to clean up for that.” 

Lear had said earlier he worked in Kentucky, to which Hein responded “It’s always in the details. Obviously you can’t come back to jail each night on work release.” 

Lear appeared not to understand some of Hein’s instructions and information, at which time he would stop so Lear’s attorney, David Rohrer of Greenville, could explain them. 

Rohrer told the Court his client was nervous. 

“I know I’ve done bad,” Lear said. “I want to fix that. I expect to pay a cost.” 

Hein asked Lear if he understood everything that had been explained to him. “Yes.” Was he making his plea of his own accord? “Yes.” Are you happy with the work your attorney did for you? 

“Yes,” Lear answered. “He worked hard for me.” 

Hein then ordered a pre-sentence investigation and probation department report, bond to be continued. He will pronounce sentence on Sept. 23 at 10 a.m. 

Published courtesy of Blue Bag Media