Machias -
A Columbia man who admitted to having sexual contact with his then 13-year-old babysitter is going to prison for three years.
41-year-old Mark Smith was sentenced on Friday in Machias.
In December, on what was supposed to be the first day of his jury trial, Smith pleaded guilty to gross sexual assault.
Prosecutors say Smith engaged in the act in 2003 while other children were present.
In court today, Smith said the events that night were uncharacteristic of him and claimed he didn't initiate anything. But he said he apologizes for his "hasty decision."
"I think it is, as his attorney said, it's a few minutes' conduct that's going to cost him three years in prison and more than that on probation. I hope it's a just sentence. I hope it sends the message that this is just completely unacceptable conduct," said First Assistant District Attorney Paul Cavanaugh.
Following his three years behind bars, Smith will be on probation for four years. He'll also be listed on the sex offender list for the rest of his life.
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