Local man who admitted raping 3-year-old girl sentenced to 20 years to life in prison

BELMONT COUNTY, Ohio (WTRF) – The Belmont County man who admitted to sex crimes against a three-year-old girl has been sentenced to 20 years to life in prison.

Gregory Holcomb, 30, of Shadyside, was charged last April with rape of a child, sexual battery, gross sexual imposition and child pornography.

Earlier this month, Holcomb pleaded guilty to first-degree rape and two counts of procuring sexual material involving a minor.

I am remorseful and sorry for what I did.

Gregory Holcomb, Defendant

Raping a three year old, taking images during and before you did it, then publishing them and others electronically.

Judge John Vavra, Belmont County Court of Common Pleas

We had pushed for it to be a life sentence with parole after 20 years and that is exactly what Judge Vavra did after hearing all the evidence we presented. In this case, the defense was asking for a lesser sentence, but through the sentencing hearing, I think we were able to establish that 20 years to life was the appropriate sentence.

Kevin Flanagan, Belmont County Prosecutor

The lead investigator in the case said Holcomb admitted he had been sexually attracted to the baby since birth.

He testified that his panties were hidden in Holcomb's clothing when he was incarcerated. He admitted to using them for sexual gratification.

Federal and state authorities have been working on this case.

This was revealed following a cyber tip.