A St. Joe man was sentenced Wednesday for the sexual abuse of an 11-year-old girl.

As we reported, Rex Sapp, 48, pleaded guilty in June to one count of statutory sodomy, admitting he sexually abused the victim five times.

Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Kate Schaefer asked for a 30-year prison term, pointing out that the victim will likely need counseling for the rest of her life.  The victim’s father told the judge the incidents left her “scared to death,” and that she has nightmares every night.

Defense lawyer Mark Wissehr asked the judge to consider probation because Sapp has no prior criminal convictions.  Barring that, Wissehr asked for a sentence in the range of 10 to 12 years.

Circuit Judge Patrick Robb ordered a 20-year prison term.  Sapp must serve at least 85% of that, or 17 years, before he can be considered for parole.  He must also register as a sex offender and submit to supervision by the state after his release.