CLEARFIELD – On the day he was set to go to trial, a Houtzdale man entered an open plea of guilt to several charges relating to incidents in which he exposed himself to juveniles and served them alcohol.
When Clearfield County Judge Paul E. Cherry announced that he would accept the plea, one of the victims in the case burst into tears with the knowledge that a nearly three-year ordeal was nearing the end.
James “Tony” Hansel, 59, had faced counts of indecent exposure, indecent assault, corruption of minors, furnishing alcohol to minors and harassment in relation to incidents that happened between November 2003 and January 2004.
Hansel exposed himself to his relative in January 2004. The relative was in his home to fix Hansel’s computer. At that time, Hansel also showed a pornographic video.
Another relative was assaulted by Hansel in January 2004 when he placed his finger down the back of a her pants, touching her buttocks.
A third relative stated that Hansel provided beer in November 2003.
In entering his plea, Hansel did not make any statements to the judge.
Hansel will be sentenced within 60 days. The earliest date at which sentencing could happen is Nov. 28.
Hansel quickly left the courthouse after entering the plea, so he did not make a comment to the media.
Before being sentenced, Hansel will need to be evaluated in accordance with regulations dealing with Megan’s Law. Several of Hansel’s offenses necessitate that he be listed with authorities as a sexual offender.