Presson Sentenced for Child Rape Conviction
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Former Madison County Constable Michael Presson learned that he will most likely spend the rest of his life in prison during his preliminary hearing, Wednesday morning. This comes after Presson was found guilty of 11 counts of rape of a child, one count of sexual battery and 10 counts of attempted aggravated sexual battery, in April. Traci Schott, a former counselor of the victim, took the stand to talk about the psychological damage that she said will always be with the girl, who was just 10-years-old when the abuse began. “She described to me how it had impacted her life and changed her forever,” said Schott. The court also heard several emotional testimonies from Presson’s friends who maintain he is a trustworthy man. In the end, Judge Roy Morgan sentenced Presson, 67, to 35 years in prison without the possibility of parole. “I hope that the victim will be able to put this behind her and move forward and have some closure after today’s hearing,” said Prosecutor Rolf Hazlehurst. Presson’s attorney Joe Byrd indicated that he plans to file a motion for a new trial. As it stands, Presson would be 102 years-old when he is released from prison.
