A State College man is facing a long prison sentence after admitting that he repeatedly raped a young girl over a span of several years.
Prosecutors say Stephen Lucas, 39, has pleaded guilty to nine counts of forcible rape and nine counts of rape of a child.
When he’s sentenced on April 9, Lucas will be facing 30 to 60 years behind bars, according to a news release from the Centre County District Attorney’s office.
Lucas was arrested in May 2013 after a 12-year-old girl revealed that he had been sexually abusing her.
The victim lived in the same home with Lucas and was frequently left in his care.
The girl reportedly told investigators that the abuse started when she was around eight-years-old and that it began with inappropriate touching that progressed to rape.
According to prosecutors, the abuse happened in various rooms of the house, including the child’s bedroom and the living room.
The Sexual Offenders Assessment Board will determine whether Lucas will be labeled as a sexually violent predator. Lucas will be required to register under SORNA, formerly known as Megan’s Law.
A statement from Centre County District Attorney Stacy Parks Miller says, “I am pleased our brave young survivor was spared having to testify in this case. This outcome will help her turn the page and facilitate the healing process for her. All children deserve to feel safe in their own homes.”
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