BENTONVILLE -- A Rogers man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl.
The jury deliberated for more than nine hours Sept. 29 before finding Anthony Baumann, 62, guilty of second-degree sexual assault. Jurors deliberated 30 minutes before recommending that Baumann serve 20 years and pay a $15,000 fine.
Baumann also was charged with rape, but the jury didn't have to consider that felony. Benton County Circuit Judge Robin Green granted a directed-verdict request from the defense, meaning Baumann was acquitted of that charge. He faced 10 to 40 years or life imprisonment if convicted of rape.
Rogers police began in August 2014 to investigate a complaint concerning Baumann sexually abusing the girl. He was arrested Jan. 31, 2015.
The girl, now 13, testified at trial. Prosecutors also presented testimony from a woman who said Baumann sexually abused her when she was a child.
Baumann testified and denied sexually abusing the girl. Baumann said he was hurt and saddened by the allegations against him.
Baumann must serve more than three years in prison before he will be eligible for parole.
Metro on 10/08/2017