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CASSOPOLIS — A Dowagiac man who sexually abused a young girl over a number of years was sentenced to prison Friday in Cass County Circuit Court.

Todd Allen Syx, 39, of Wayne Street in Dowagiac, pleaded guilty to criminal sexual conduct-assault with intent to commit penetration and was sentenced to 46 months to 10 years in prison. He has credit for 88 days served and must pay $1,108 in fines and costs. He must register as a sex offender.

     The incidents occurred over several years in Wayne Township.

     The victim’s guardian read a statement from the victim before the sentencing. The victim stated that Syx had abused her for years as a child and also exposed her to pornographic materials. She said that she has felt depressed and suicidal, is getting counseling and has a hard time trusting others.

     “This is something I will live with for the rest of my life, but I won’t let it define the rest of my life,” the victim said.

     “Her words are eloquent and show a maturing beyond her years,” Cass County Prosecutor Victor Fitz said. “His actions were evil, deplorable and inexcusable. In contrast, the victim is a young brave individual. I have great confidence that she will survive and thrive.”

     Defense attorney Robert Kardatzke noted that this is the first time Syx has ever been in jail and noted that he was abused himself as a child.

“He knows that it doesn’t make what he did okay,” Kartatzke said.

     Cass County Circuit Court Judge Mark Herman said that Syx’s actions justified a sentence above the guidelines which called for a zero to 17 months sentence.

“The fact that she doesn’t want to see you again indicates the torment you put her through year after year after year after year after year,” he said.

     “If you ever have another opportunity to have a relationship with a (young girl), consider taking her to Disney World and not to hell,” he added.

     He noted that he didn’t agree to abide by the sentencing guidelines. He pointed out that the sentence he imposed is equal to the minimum for a criminal sexual conduct assault sentence for a habitual offender.