Downstate sex offender gets life in prison

MOUNT VERNON — A former southern Illinois corrections officer convicted of sex offenses with children continued to maintain his innocence when sentenced to spend the rest of his life in prison.

Fifty-two-year-old Edward Oats was sentenced this week in Jefferson County, more than a year and a half since being convicted of three counts of predatory criminal sexual assault involving two children.

The Mount Vernon Register-News reports that during the sentencing hearing, the mother of one of Oats’ victims pressed in writing that Oats should not be allowed to hurt children again. She also said the psychological damage caused to the victims will never go away.

A judge rejected Oats’ request for a new trial on claims his attorney was ineffective.

Oats’ new attorney says he plans to appeal the convictions.