Metro
The creep who kidnapped a 9-year-old girl from an upstate New York campground and sexually assaulted her will spend at least 47 years in prison.
Craig Ross Jr. was sentenced Wednesday to 47 years to life behind bars about six months after he snatched the young girl while she was riding her bike at Moreau Lake State Park in Saratoga County, prosecutors said Wednesday.
The kidnapping sparked a massive search that ended two days later when the girl was found alive in a trailer in the backyard of Ross’ mother’s home.
Ross, 47, previously pleaded guilty to first-degree kidnapping and predatory sexual assault against a child in February.
Judge James Murphy III sentenced Ross to 25 years to life on the kidnapping charge and 22 years to life on the sex crime, the district attorney’s office said.
Saratoga County District Attorney Karen Heggen called Ross’ actions “vile” and “wicked” that warrant a life sentence.
“The plea of guilty by Craig N. Ross, Jr., to Kidnapping in the First Degree and Predatory Sexual Assault against a Child told our community that he was responsible for his heinous and despicable acts last fall,” she said in a statement.
“The sentencing today by Judge James A. Murphy, III of Ross to an aggregate of 47 years to life reflects the Court’s determination that Ross’ actions were so vile and wicked that he should face up to life in prison.
“He will serve decades in prison before any parole consideration is available to him. This result is due to the tremendous efforts of the New York State Police and their numerous law enforcement partners, along with the outpouring of support from the citizens of the community who turned out in so many ways in support of the child and their family.”
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
