ATHOL — A Franklin Superior Court judge today imposed a 25-30 year prison sentence on a former Athol man who pleaded guilty to 27 charges related to the rape and sexual abuse of three minors.
Jose A. Oquendo, 51, entered his plea on Thursday, admitting to a series of charges that included four counts of aggravated rape of a child, seven counts of indecent assault and battery on a person over 14, three counts of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14, assault and battery, and photographing a child in the nude.
In light of the egregious nature of the offenses, Judge David Hodge accepted the sentence recommendation put forth by the Commonwealth.
Northwestern Assistant District Attorney Anne Yereniuk, along with Assistant District Attorney Stephanie Jimenez, prosecuted the case and lauded the courage of the victims.
“The victims are exemplars of resilience and heroism,” Yereniuk stated. “But for their bravery this defendant would never have been held accountable.”
In addition to the prison term, Hodge ordered a 5-year probation following Oquendo’s release, with stipulations including no contact with the victims, mandatory sexual offender treatment, and sex offender registration.
Yereniuk, in her sentencing memo, emphasized the importance of a stringent sentence to ensure the safety of the community and to address the “psychological devastation” caused by the defendant.
ADA Jimenez commended the Athol Police Department for conducting a thorough and compassionate investigation.
Defense Attorney Isaac Maas had sought a lesser sentence of 15-20 years, which was rejected in favor of the stiffer penalty.
