Potosi Man gets Prison after Using Alford Plea in Washington County Rape Case

(Potosi) A Potosi man received a 10-year prison sentence in Washington County after making an Alford Plea of guilty to a Class C child molestation felony.

37-year-old William Taft Skaggs was accused of raping a child and several other similar acts.

Skaggs was originally charged early this year with first degree rape or attempted rape of a person less than 12 years old, first degree sodomy or attempted sodomy of a victim less than 12, second degree child molestation of a victim less than 12, two counts of third degree child molestation of a victim under 14 and an incest charge.

An Alford Plea means the defendant does not admit to the criminal act and asserts innocence but the plea also means the defendant admits that evidence would likely persuade a judge or jury to find the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Reports say the Multi-County Narcotics and Violent Crimes Enforcement Unit began investigating a rape and sodomy case of a child against Skaggs back in August of 2020.

In an interview, the victim told investigators Skaggs had sex with her, he also attempted to undress the victim and touch her inappropriately on numerous occasions.

Skaggs’ 10-year sentence will run concurrent with a 7-year sentence he received in an unrelated charge of 2nd degree domestic assault.

Skaggs also used the Alford Plea in that case.