A man from Ridgeville has received a 14-year prison sentence for engaging in a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl.
Solicitor David Pascoe announced that William Gibbs, aged 44, has received a conviction for criminal sexual conduct involving a minor in the third degree.
In 2022, a guardian reported to the Summerville Police Department upon discovering text messages exchanged between a 15-year-old girl and a 42-year-old man.
During their inquiry, authorities discovered that Gibbs had connected with the 15-year-old victim via social media prior to entering into a sexual relationship.
The Solicitor’s Office reported that the investigation uncovered that Gibbs transmitted inappropriate images to the minor’s cell phone, supplied her with marijuana multiple times, and entered the victim’s bedroom while her guardian was away to partake in these actions.
The prosecution of this case was led by Chief Deputy Solicitor Kelly Amell LaPlante.
“This case is a reminder of the dangers our children face on the internet, social media, and cell phones,” said LaPlante. “We encourage parents to stay vigilant when monitoring their kids’ cell phones because behind those screens monsters are waiting to pray on the most vulnerable.”
A conviction for criminal sexual conduct involving a minor in the third degree can result in a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. Gibbs has received a 14-year sentence after admitting guilt to the charge that was set to precede his jury trial in Dorchester next week.
He is currently in custody at the local detention facility.
The Solicitor’s Office expresses gratitude to former SPD Investigator Cameron Hendrix and the Summerville Police Department for their efforts on this case.