MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Marion County Prosecutor Ray Grogan announced the conviction and sentencing of 21-year-old Maurice Williams for a sexual assault incident that took place at a Hobby Lobby store on McMahon Boulevard. The incident, which occurred on April 11, 2024, led Williams to plead guilty to a fourth-degree felony charge of Gross Sexual Imposition.
According to the allegations, Williams was seen masturbating in an aisle near a 19-year-old female employee, who was occupied with a jewelry display and unaware of his actions. The situation escalated when Williams ejaculated on the young woman. Assistant Prosecutor Chuck Hall managed the prosecution of the case, which resulted in Williams receiving an 18-month prison sentence. Additionally, he has been classified as a Tier I Sex Offender, which mandates annual registration for 15 years post-release—a measure aimed at enhancing community safety.
Prosecutor Grogan emphasized the importance of this case, stating, “The swift conviction and sentencing in this case demonstrate our office’s resolve to protect our citizens from criminal behavior. We want to send a clear message that any form of sex crime, especially in public settings, will not be tolerated and will be met with serious consequences.”