BECKLEY, WV (WOAY) – A Raleigh County man pled guilty to sexually abusing his stepdaughter.
William Pettry, a former Coal River Volunteer firefighter, was arrested back in July of 2023.
He appeared in front of Raleigh County Circuit Court Judge Andrew Dimlich to waive his right to a trial by jury.
He pled guilty to sexual assault in the first degree, sexual abuse by a parent, guardian, custodian, or person of trust, and the use of a minor in the production of child pornography.
Hatfield said his office is seeking the maximum penalty, which is 130 years behind bars. Pettry will be sentenced on May 6 at 9 a.m.
Hatfield said that his office is committed to the apprehension and prosecution of sex offenders. Further, he said that securing a guilty plea avoided the trauma of a trial for the victim.
