Sterling Williams entered the guilty pleas in the 128th District Court and elected to have the judge assess punishment. The court imposed a 35-year prison sentence.
ORANGE, Texas — A 33-year-old man has been sentenced to 35 years in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of aggravated sexual assault of a child, bringing closure to what authorities described as one of the most difficult cases the community has faced.
Sterling Williams entered his guilty pleas in the 128th District Court and asked the judge to assess punishment. The court sentenced him to 35 years in prison.
Investigators said the crimes occurred July 5, 2025, when Williams sexually assaulted an 11-year-old child and then fled the scene. A warrant was issued for his arrest, and he was taken into custody two days later.
Orange County Sheriff Bobby Smith said the sentence sends a clear message that crimes against children will not be tolerated. In a statement, the sheriff praised patrol deputies — particularly the first responders — for their swift response and for treating the victim with care and compassion during the initial stages of the investigation.
The Orange County District Attorneys Office also credited investigators and prosecutors for working together to gather evidence and present a strong case in court.
The conviction was the result of a coordinated effort involving the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Laboratory and assistance from members of the public. Assistant District Attorney Bard Anderson prosecuted the case.
Authorities said the case highlights the lasting harm caused by crimes against children but also demonstrates what can be achieved when law enforcement and the community work together. Officials expressed continued support for the victim and their family and reiterated their commitment to protecting children and pursuing justice in similar cases.
“Our work is far from over, but together we will keep fighting to ensure the safety of every child in our community,” Sheriff Bobby Smith said in a news release.
This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.
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