PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A man who fled from prosecution a decade ago will serve eight to 10 years in state prison for sexually assaulting two children.

 

The Berkshire District Attorney's Office secured the conviction of Juan Harry, 54, on Friday on three counts of indecent assault and battery on a child and one count of rape of a child. Judge John Agostini sentenced Harry to serve eight to 10 years in state prison, aligning with state sentencing recommendations.

 

The North Adams Police Department arrested Harry for sexually assaulting two 11-year-old girls in 2003. Harry fled the area on the first day the court expected to begin the trial in 2010. In August of this year, Nassau County, N.Y., police arrested Harry on the default warrant.

 

"We are glad to finally bring the victims, now adult women who waited a long time for this day, some closure with this lengthy sentence. The District Attorney's Office will always fight for victims regardless of how long it takes," District Attorney Andrea Harrington said.

 

"I thank the North Adams Police and the multi-disciplinary team who investigated this case and gave us enough evidence to secure a conviction. I thank the courageous victims for reliving these horrific events and sharing their powerful victim witness statements with the Court."