Michigan man sentenced to 40 years for repeated sexual assault of a minor

CALHOUN COUNTY, MI. — A Michigan man was sentenced to 17 to 40 years in prison for repeatedly sexually assaulting a minor over several years, officials said.

John Hendrickson, 59, of Bellaire, pleaded no contest to four counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct in August.

He was also charged in January with three counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct in Allegan County and another in Calhoun County, but those were dismissed under a plea agreement.

Following his prison sentence, Hendrickson will be subject to lifetime electronic monitoring and sex offender registration.

“Sexual assault is a heinous crime that leaves lasting scars,” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said during the defendant’s plea. “I am grateful that we were able to obtain justice for the victim in this case without prolonging her suffering through litigation. The courage of a victim to come forward after years of abuse is truly inspiring. “I want to reassure all victims of sexual assault that my department is committed to supporting survivors and ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice, no matter how many years have passed.”