HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A 19-year-old Wichita man is expected back in Reno County District Court Friday for sentencing in a child sex case.
Samuel Peterson was originally charged with a single count of aggravated indecent liberties with a child in association with his contact and sexual acts with a 12-year-old girl. But, as part of a plea agreement, the state knocked the charge down to aggravated indecent solicitation. Peterson entered a “no contest” plea to the charge.
Peterson apparently made contact with the victim through an internet site called “Hot or Not” and then met up with her on Sept. 2, 2014, where the alleged sexual encounter occurred. Her mother apparently made a report, leading to the investigation by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and Peterson’s arrest.
With the plea, sentencing will occur in front of Judge Trish Rose where the defense will ask for a border box finding. The state is expected to remain silent at that hearing. Border box means the judge can order him to prison, or grant a non-prison sanction.
Peterson will be on lifetime post-release and will have to register as a sex offender in Sedgwick County where he lives.