DECATUR COUNTY, IN — A 25-year sentence was handed down to Matthew Tuck of Greensburg, who pleaded guilty to Child Molesting (Level 1 felony) Wednesday in Decatur Circuit Court.
Judge Tim Day went along with a plea agreement between the prosecution and defense attorneys, and sentenced Tuck to 16 years in prison, four years on electronically monitored home detention, and the remaining five years on supervised probation.
Tuck is now considered a sexually violent predator and will have to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
Court records indicate Tuck acknowledged to law enforcement that he had previously performed sex acts on an underage girl, but initially stopped short of admitting to all the allegations made by her.
Decatur County Prosecutor Nate Harter said that changed at Wednesday’s hearing.
“Speaking with our survivor, I know that she was pleased to hear him admit at the guilty plea hearing that she was telling the truth all along,” said Harter.
“I am so proud of the young lady who came forward with her account of how Mr. Tuck abused her,” Harter said. “Her courage was the first step to healing, and I am hopeful that this sentence provides further comfort and closure. I am also grateful for the involvement and assistance of her mother, who helped guide our plea negotiations to a just result that did not further traumatize her daughter.”
Harter recognized Greensburg Police Detective Steve Barnes for his work in gathering evidence, conducting interviews, executing search warrants, and staying in contact with the family.
“There were additional partners who helped to keep this child safe, including our local schools, who hosted a program about sexual assault, after which the young lady came forward,” Harter said. “I also need to thank the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southeastern Indiana for helping provide our victim a safe and non-traumatic setting to tell her account. Finally, Riley Hospital for Children Center of Hope performed invaluable tests and treatment for the child.”
The Decatur County Prosecutor’s Office encourages all survivors of violence or sexual assault to step forward and be heard.
