Maryland man sentenced in child rape case

A man will spend decades behind bars after he was convicted for his role in the rape of a child, in Maryland.

The Office of the Worcester County State's Attorney says on Monday, 31-year-old John Anthony Clark, of Bishopville, was sentenced to to 85 years in the Department of Corrections with all but 45 years suspended. The nearly 50-year sentenced comes after Clark pleaded guilty to one count of sex abuse of a minor and three counts of second degree rape on April 11, 2018. 

The charges stem from approximately 180 encounters Clark had with a child since 2014.

According to authorities, Clark was arrested by members of the Maryland State Police after an in depth investigation revealed that he had sexually abused a 13-year-old girl for several years.

In regards to Clark's sentencing, Judge Matthew A. Maciarello  says, " Children are our greatest resource and the plea presented by Deputy State's Attorney Diane Karsnitz had ensured their protection." 

The 31-year-old was also ordered to register as a tier III sex offender which requires a lifetime registration on the sex offender registry.