BELMONT COUNTY, OH (WTRF) - A Belmont County man was sentenced today to ten years to life for the rape of a child.

Joseph Melvin of Bellaire pleaded guilty to the charge on July 28.

Authorities are not revealing details of the crime, citing a need to protect the victim and her family.

Prosecutor Kevin Flanagan praised the victim for her courage.

He said he believes Joseph Melvin will serve several decades in prison before he's ever considered a candidate for parole.

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