Galveston Co. child sex assault: 60-year-old sentenced to 28 years

GALVESTON (KTRK) -- A 60-year-old man was sentenced to 28 years in prison for the sexual assault of a young girl in Galveston County back in 2013.

A jury settled on the sentence for Michael Arthur Enriquez, 60, after a day of deliberation. He faced a sentencing range of 5 to 99 years or life for the charge of aggravated sexual assault of a child.

During the trial, the girl - whose age has not been released - testified that she told her parents of the assault on the day it happened. An expert witness also testified at trial, saying Enriquez's DNA was found on the girl the day of the assault.

Enriquez did not testify, but did present testimony from two family members. Both testified they were angry with the defendant when first finding out about the sexual assault. They both talked about their family's relationship between with the girl, describing the relationship as very close. Authorities point out neither witness could offer any testimony concerning what happened between Enriquez and the victim on the day of the sexual assault.

Prior to this conviction, Enriquez pleaded guilty to felony theft.

During the punishment phase of his trial, Enriquez's son pleaded for mercy from the jury due to father's age and heath issues. The State countered, saying Enriquez did not show mercy for his child victim.

Once released from prison, Enriquez will be required to register as a sex offender for life.