The 16-year-old Benjamin Logan High School student accused of sexually assaulting young girls on a school bus accepted a plea deal Wednesday that could mean he'll receive a blended sentence as an adult and as a juvenile.
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Initially indicted in nine criminal counts, the teenager pleaded guilty to rape by force and no contest to three counts of gross sexual imposition.
The judge said they’re taking their time in terms of sentencing because the case involves a serious youthful offender specification and that could mean a blended sentence of adult and juvenile punishments when that time comes.
Five charges were dropped as a result of the plea agreement with the Logan County Prosecutor's Office.
After Wednesday's hearing, the teenager will continue to be monitored through an ankle device. He will not be detained in the county juvenile detention center.