SALYERSVILLE – A Magoffin County man took a plea deal on rape-related charges in court on Thursday, November 16.
Jared B. Owens, 27, of Salyersville, pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree rape (Class B felonies) and three counts of first-degree sexual abuse (Class D felonies), accepting the Commonwealth’s offer for 15 years in prison.
Owens was first arrested on January 10, 2023, at his residence after allegations from a juvenile female were made to the Kentucky State Police, claiming he forcibly raped the minor two days prior.
In the plea deal, the Commonwealth Attorney recommended 15 years in prison for both counts of rape, and five years for each of the sexual abuse charges, all to run concurrently with each other, as well as five years of conditional discharge following release and no contact with the victim. Under the deal, if accepted by the judge, he will also have to submit to lifetime sexual offender registration and undergo sexual offender evaluation and follow through with treatment conditions.
A sentencing hearing is set for December 7, at which time the judge will either accept the Commonwealth’s recommendations or rule a separate sentencing for the charges.
At press time, Owens remains at the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center.
Editor’s Note: The indictment or charge of a person by a grand jury or otherwise is an accusation only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
