Sylvania Twp. man, 23, guilty of fondling girl, 9

2/29/2012

A Sylvania Township man was found guilty of fondling a 9-year-old girl at the library after he entered an Alford plea in Lucas County Common Pleas Court Wednesday to attempted gross sexual imposition.

Jason M. Jeffries, 23, of 7924 Central Ave. faces up to 18 months in prison when sentenced March 15 by Judge Linda Jennings. In an Alford plea, the defendant maintains innocence but acknowledges sufficient evidence for a conviction. The court treats it as a guilty plea.

Police said Mr. Jeffries inappropriately touched the girl at the Sylvania branch library Oct. 27. This week, Judge Jennings ruled Jeffries competent to stand trial.