Napa Judge Sentences Molester To 36 Years To Life

NAPA COUNTY, CA -- A 68-year-old American Canyon man convicted of molesting a young boy was sentenced to 36 years to life in prison Tuesday, Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley announced in a news release. Jimmie Leonne Mallette was facing 49 years to life in prison after a Napa County jury convicted him July 21 three counts of oral copulation with a child under 10 years of age, two counts of lewd and lascivious conduct with a child under 14 years of age, and one count of continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14 years of age.

"The convictions are a result of contact defendant had with a young boy who was between 5-7 years old
at the time of the molestation," Haley said. "During the trial, a prior victim testified against him as well."

According to the prosecution, Mallette was a friend of the victim's great grandmother. Mallette testified on his own behalf during the trial, claiming the children initiated the sexual contact, Haley said.

Tuesday morning, Mallette was sentenced by Judge Francisca Tisher.

"The victim addressed the court and Deputy District Attorney Kecia Lind read victim impact statements from a family member and prior victim," Haley said.

Napa County Deputy District Attorney Kecia Lind prosecuted the case following a Napa County Sheriff's investigation led by Detective Nathalie Hurtado.

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Bay City News Service contributed to this report.

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