A Lakewood Township man has received his sentence for sexually assaulting a small child on several occasions within his own home.

The sentence of 45-year-old Norman Medina of Lakewood for aggravated sexual assault, announced by the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office, is for 15-years with a parole ineligibility period of 15-years as well, which the sentence falling under the Jessica Lunsford Act.

He pleaded guilty on July 14 in Ocean County Superior Court.

Photo: Shawn Michaels
Photo: Shawn Michaels
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Medina was arrested and charged after it was learned he sexually assaulted a child between the ages of 5 and 12 on several occasions, according to investigators handling the case.

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Lakewood Police, the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office, New Jersey State Police, and the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office handled the investigation and it led to Medina admitting to intentionally criminally sexually touching the child.

(Vin Ebenau, Townsquare Media NJ)
(Vin Ebenau, Townsquare Media NJ)
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"The victim, who spoke at sentencing, was extremely brave in coming forward and facing her abuser today at sentencing,” Atlantic County Chief Assistant Prosecutor Erika Halayko said in a written statement. “This child spoke not only for herself but for all victims of sexual abuse giving courage to those who might not feel they are ready to come forward to speak out against their abusers."

Atlantic County Chief Assistant Prosecutor Halayko also said that with regard to the court case situation, that "due to a conflict with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, Chief Assistant Prosecutor Halayko and Assistant Prosecutor Julia Miller from the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office represented the State of New Jersey in the matter."

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