Rapist gets life sentence

SANDUSKY — A former pastor was sentenced Tuesday to life in prison on charges including rape. Visiting Judge John Haas sentenced Richard Mick, 59, formerly of Lighthouse Baptist Church in Sandusky, to life in prison plus three years. Mick, of Castalia, was convicted by a jury last Friday on nine felony counts — one count of rape and eight counts of gross sexual imposition — following a weeklong trial in Erie County's Court of Common Pleas. Those charges relate to two victims, both of whom were children at the time of the offenses. If released from prison, he'll also have to register as a sex offender. Mick's attorney, Chris Maher, said Mick should be eligible for parole in about 10 years. None of the victims made impact statements Tuesday in court, but their families did. The brother of one victim told Mick that he "(doesn't) believe anyone is born evil." "I don't believe you were born wanting to commit these crimes," the brother said. "I cannot imagine what kind of life led you to what you'd done. Let your victims have peace. Be honest to your friends and family about what you've done." The father of a different victim also spoke, telling the judge to keep Mick in prison as long as possible. "He's broken man's laws, he's broken God's laws," the father said. "We can only address man's laws here." People also made statements in support of Mick. A church member and friend of Mick's told Haas that Mick was one of the best pastors she's ever seen. "He is loved and will continue to be loved and supported," she said, before turning to face Mick. "I love you, pastor. You will always be my pastor." Two of Mick's children also spoke about the love they have for their father, along with Mick's brother, who told the judge that Mick was "always there to help (him.)" "That I've ever known, he's never done any wrong," Mick's brother said. "I don't really know what else to say but he's a good man." Mick also made a brief statement. "I'd like to thank the people here who love me and support me," Mick said. Another lawyer on the defense team, Danielle Kulik, asked Haas to grant Mick bond while they file an appeal of his conviction. Haas denied the request. Mick will get 904 days credit for time already spent in jail. It's not known where Mick will serve his prison sentence.