RENO - A man facing graphic allegations of child sexual abuse has reportedly arranged for a plea bargain. Robert Pearson, 32, was originally charged with five counts of sexual assault, four of those counts involved his 10-year-old stepson. Pearson was charged with forcing his 10-year-old stepson to have sex with his wife Cherie, the boy's own mother.
If convicted, Pearson faced up to five life terms with a minimum 20-years on each count. But now, the Washoe County District Attorney's office has decided to plea bargain the case and charge Pearson with one count of felony child abuse that carries from 2-20 years in prison.
"We felt the status of the case, including the kid's ability to testify supports this decision," said John Helzer, Washoe County Assistant District Attorney.