Widowed man sentenced to prison for criminal sexual conduct – Leader Publications

CASSOPOLIS – A widowed man who sexually abused a young girl over several years was sentenced to prison Friday in Cass County Circuit Court.

Todd Allen Syx, 39, of Wayne Street in Dowagiac, pleaded guilty to sexual assault with intent to penetrate and was sentenced to 46 months to 10 years in prison. He has credit for 88 days served and must pay $1,108 in fines and costs. He must register as a sex offender.

The incidents occurred over several years in Wayne Township.

The victim’s guardian read a statement from the victim before the verdict was announced. The victim said Syx abused her for years as a child and also exposed her to pornographic material. She said she had been feeling depressed and suicidal, was seeking counseling and was having a hard time trusting others.

“This is something I will live with for the rest of my life, but I will not let it dictate the rest of my life,” the victim said.

“Her words are eloquent and demonstrate a maturity beyond her years,” said Cass County Prosecutor Victor Fitz. “His actions were evil, regrettable and inexcusable. In contrast, the victim is a young, courageous person. I have great confidence that she will survive and thrive.”

Defense attorney Robert Kardatzke noted that this was the first time Syx had ever been in prison, noting that he himself was abused as a child. “He knows that what he did doesn’t make it good,” Kartatzke said.

Cass County Circuit Court Judge Mark Herman said Syx’s actions warranted a sentence above the guidelines, which called for a sentence of zero to 17 months in prison. “The fact that she doesn’t want to see you again shows the torment you put her through year after year after year after year,” he said.

“If you ever have the opportunity to have a relationship with a (young girl) again, you should think about taking her to Disney World and not hell,” he added.

He indicated that he did not agree to follow the sentencing guidelines. He pointed out that the sentence he imposed was the minimum sentence for sexual harassment for a habitual offender.