Dereck Martz Sentenced for Rape, Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse and Other Felony Charges
HARRISBURG — Attorney General Josh Shapiro today announced the sentencing of a Montour County man for the rape and sexual assault of a seven-year-old victim over many years.
Dereck Martz, 32, of 208 Mill St, Danville, was sentenced to 12 to 50 years in prison for rape, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, statutory sexual assault, aggravated indecent assault and indecent assault.
“This is an incredibly disturbing case where a child was abused repeatedly for years,” Attorney General Josh Shapiro said. “My office has a zero tolerance policy for the sexual abuse of children. Thanks to strong law enforcement collaboration with the Danville Police Department, we were able to bring this predator to justice with a lengthy prison sentence.”
The assaults occurred at the defendant’s house, victim’s house, parks and a baseball field. In the criminal complaint, the victim stated the abuse haunted him for years. The defendant was 12 years old in 1997 when the assaults began against the seven-year-old victim.
This defendant abused and controlled the victim. In one instance the victim stated he was going to tell someone about the abuse. In response, Martz grabbed the victim by his collar and struck him in the face.
Martz was previously convicted for sexually abusing children and is already a lifetime registered sexual offender.
Suspected child predators can be reported by calling the Child Predator Hotline at 1-800-385-1044. Individuals who suspect an online predator or abuse can also send anonymous tips by texting PAKIDS + YOUR TIP to 847411.
Senior Judge David E. Grine pronounced the sentencing today. The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Megan Madaffari.
