WAVERLY, Ohio — A Pike County man has been sentenced to an aggregate prison term of 142 to 146 years following his conviction on 26 felony counts of sexually abusing and exploiting a child, the Pike County Prosecutor’s Office said.
Andre Ghee was sentenced after a four-day jury trial that concluded Oct. 22, prosecutors said. The convictions included sexual battery, pandering obscenity involving a minor, pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor, and endangering children.
Pike County Prosecuting Attorney Michael A. Davis and Assistant Prosecutor Matt Brady tried the case on behalf of the state. Prosecutors presented witness testimony, medical evidence, extensive digital communications, photographs and videos, and forensic evidence recovered from electronic devices and online service providers, according to the release.
“This case involved the sexual abuse and exploitation of a child by an adult entrusted with her safety,” the prosecutor’s office said in its release. “The sentence holds Ghee accountable for his conduct and protects the victim and our community.”
The office credited the victim’s decision to come forward and testify, saying participating in a criminal trial can be “an extraordinarily difficult experience,” particularly when it requires recounting abuse. Prosecutors said they will not release identifying information about the victim in order to protect her privacy and dignity.
The prosecutor’s office singled out Investigator Alan Wheeler and Amy White for recognition, saying Wheeler’s examination of the digital evidence and his ability to explain it to the jury were critical to the prosecution, and that White’s preparation work throughout the case was equally significant. Assistant Prosecutor Brady was also recognized for his trial preparation and partnership in presenting the case.
The office extended its appreciation to the Pike County Sheriff’s Office, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Garden Advocacy Center for their assistance throughout the case, and thanked the jurors for their service.
The information contained in this story was obtained from the Pike County Prosecutor’s Office.
