Ex-N. Ind. city worker gets 10 years on sex crimes

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — A former Mishawaka city worker who pleaded guilty to sexual misconduct involving two 15-year-old girls has been sentenced to 10 years in prison.

The South Bend Tribune reports that St. Joseph Superior Court Judge John Marnocha on Wednesday sentenced 26-year-old Andrew West to seven years on one of the sexual misconduct counts and three years on the other. As part of his plea agreement, the state dismissed three remaining counts.

Prosecutors said West engaged in sexual acts with the girls while he worked with the Mishawaka Department of Community Development. One victim alleged some of the activity occurred in meeting rooms at the Mishawaka City Hall.

West could have faced up to 28 years in prison. He was taken into custody following the sentencing.