Perry Co. man receives 3 life sentences for sexual assault of multiple children
FRANKFORT, Ky. – A Perry County man now faces three life sentences for the sexual assault of multiple children, with no possibility for parole.
According to the office of Attorney General Russell Coleman, on Thursday, a judge recommended the sentence for 58-year-old Harrison Cress, who was previously found guilty on two counts of first-degree sodomy, child under 12, one count of incest, child under 12, and three counts of first-degree sexual abuse, child under 12.
Officials say Cress “groomed multiple children, building trust so he could exploit and abuse them.”
After years of abuse, the attorney general’s office says one of the children reported the abuse to a grandparent.
Officials say interviews with the victims provided information leading to the arrest.
According to the attorney general’s office, five children provided victim statements for the recent sentencing.
“When those who harm our kids are held accountable, it tells every survivor their voice matters and that the justice system can protect them,” Coleman said. “I’m deeply grateful to the Children’s Advocacy Center professionals, law enforcement, prosecutors and advocates who worked with these children to help them find their voice and the courage to put this monster behind bars.”
The Kentucky State Police investigated the case with support from the Perry County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant Attorneys General Barbara Whaley and Tony Skeans prosecuted the case on behalf of the Commonwealth. McCall Allen with the Attorney General’s Office of Victim’s Advocacy provided services to the victims.
