CARDINGTON, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—On Monday, a visiting judge sentenced Dalton Edwards to 30 to 32.5 years in prison following his guilty plea on 58 counts related to child sexual exploitation.
Edwards appeared in court as family members and victims gathered to hear the outcome of a case that has sent shockwaves through the community.
The case emerged from an investigation by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force in Cleveland, which led to reports of Edwards using a social media account to upload and distribute child sexual abuse material.
A search warrant for his electronic devices unveiled evidence, including a large collection of illicit images. Authorities found that Edwards had manipulated images of students, whom he had volunteered to supervise at a local school, creating sexually explicit content that violated their trust and privacy.
During the sentencing hearing, four victims addressed the court, speaking about the profound impact of Edwards’ actions on their lives.
Their statements underscored the emotional toll of the betrayal and the violation of trust they experienced.
The judge, in deliberating the sentence, emphasized the dual objectives of accountability and rehabilitation.
Following his prison term, Edwards will be required to register as a sex offender for the next 25 years.
Prosecutor Wick praised the bravery of the victims for speaking out and commended Director of Victim Services Richelle Ettel for her dedication in supporting them throughout the case.
Wick also acknowledged Detective Sergeant Clarke and the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office for their thorough investigation, which brought the case to resolution.
“This case is particularly difficult when the Defendant is young but has so deeply violated the trust placed in him,” Wick stated. “Our small communities rely on volunteers to protect and guide our children, and the betrayal seen here is particularly troubling.”
The resolution allows for the potential of Edwards’ release from prison under stringent supervision, reflecting a commitment to public safety while offering hope for rehabilitation.
Wick expressed hope that Edwards would recognize the harm he caused and utilize his time in prison to seek improvement and restitution for his offenses.