ZANESVILLE, Ohio (AVC News) — A Roseville man has been sentenced to 11 years in prison after a Muskingum County jury found him guilty of kidnapping and gross sexual imposition.
Shawn Hale was sentenced Monday by Muskingum County Common Pleas Court Judge Gerald Anderson. Hale, who has previous felony convictions, also will be required to register as a sex offender following his release from prison.
The charges stemmed from an incident May 4, 2026, that was captured on video. According to evidence presented at trial, Hale touched and groped the victim while demanding sex.
The victim repeatedly told Hale “No,” “Stop it” and “Get off of me,” according to prosecutors.
Prosecutors said Hale continued the conduct, including climbing on top of the victim, touching her, licking her neck and repeatedly striking her on the backside.
Jurors rejected the defense’s position that Hale’s conduct was consensual and found him guilty of kidnapping and gross sexual imposition. The jury reached its verdict in less than 30 minutes.
Before trial, Hale sought dismissal of all charges and a written apology from the state, according to prosecutors. The state declined, and the case proceeded to trial.
Assistant Prosecutor John Litle said the case demonstrated that a prior relationship does not establish consent to sexual contact.
“When someone cannot understand the basic premise that ‘No means no’ and ‘keep your hands to yourself,’ then the appropriate place for them is prison,” Litle said.
Hale’s previous convictions include engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity, trafficking in drugs, escape and domestic violence.
Assistant Prosecutors John Litle and Jahan Karamali prosecuted the case.
Last Updated on October 5, 2026 by AVC News
