An inmate who pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a staff member at the Moose Lake state prison in 2005 will receive a life prison sentence.
Michael Howard Bale, 48, was scheduled to stand trial starting Tuesday in Carlton County District Court, but at the last moment pleaded guilty to first-degree criminal sexual conduct.
Bale was accused of sexually assaulting the staff member on July 18, 2005. According to the indictment, Bale used force or coercion to injure the woman and circumstances existed to cause her to have reasonable fear of imminent great bodily harm.
Carlton County Attorney Thom Pertler said a provision in sentencing guidelines when the sexual assault occurred results in a mandatory life prison sentence for a defendant with two prior sexual assault convictions. Pertler said Bale had four prior sexual assault convictions.
Pertler said Bale indicated to the court that he didn't want to put everyone through a trial.
ADVERTISEMENT
"It's been a real long and difficult road for the victim. I'm really pleased for her that this can finally come to a conclusion," Pertler said.
Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 13.
