HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A 44-year-old Hutchinson man who was originally given a 72-year sentence will now serve just 10 more years in prison after being sentenced Thursday afternoon in Reno County District Court.

James Quinton, who was convicted in 2003 for sexually assaulting his girlfriend and sentenced to 72 years in prison, filed a civil motion for a new trial. That trial was granted by the court of appeals. Quinton then pleaded guilty just before the start of his new trial to one count of rape; the other charges were dismissed.

During sentencing, the victim stood up and told Quinton: “I have had to deal with you and your master manipulation for over 14 years in and out of this courtroom, so don’t you dare tell me you’re sorry.” She said she was the victim 14 years ago, but stood in the courtroom today as a survivor.

Quinton also spoke and talked about his rough upbringing. Quinton said he was truly sorry for what happened. He said that night was the result of many unresolved issues.

The defense asked for a 20-year sentence that would allow Quinton to be released in five years. However, Judge Trish Rose stuck to the plea deal agreement and gave Quinton 28 years and nine months.

That sentence is still significantly shorter than the 34 years he could have received as the standard mid-range sentence, or the 72-year sentence in the original case.

 

Editor’s Note: A previous version of this story paraphrased the victim. Paragraph three now utilizes the statement read in court.